You asked: "Why we need TikTok's 'underconsumption core' — insights from a former shopaholic." In essence, this trend offers both a necessary cultural shift and personal redemption for those worn down by excessive consumption. Here's why it's so important—especially from the perspective of someone who used to shop compulsively—and how it truly liberates rather than restricts.

What is "Underconsumption Core"?
TikTok's underconsumption core is a social media movement where users highlight using what they already own, embracing minimalism, secondhand items, and thoughtful, necessary purchases—often reframing it as a lifestyle aesthetic or "core." Think less impulse buying, more mindful living.
Dexerto
CNBC
Business Insider

Creators demonstrate this through:

Finishing beauty products before replacing them.

Continuing to use old hair tools, thrifted clothes, and heirloom furniture.

DIY fixes, repurposing, and resisting consumerist pressures.
CNBC
Katie Couric Media
The Cut
Real Simple
Business Insider

Why It Resonates (Especially for Former Shopaholics)
Economic Relief & Mental Peace
As Kara Perez explains, endless ads and rising prices burn people out. Underconsumption offers freedom from the constant temptation to buy.
Daily Sabah

Professional financial analysts say the trend helps manage clutter—and mental clutter too—by reducing consumption.
Real Simple

Rejecting Influencer Pressure
This movement pushes back against influencer-driven consumerism and TikTok's in-app shopping culture. It's a rebellion against curated obsession.
Business Insider
Reddit
The Economic Times

Sustainable & Environmental Benefits
Buying less and using what you have is inherently more sustainable, aligning with eco-conscious values.
The Cut
The Guardian

Authenticity Over Aesthetics
The trend celebrates being "normal"—it's not about a perfectly styled lifestyle, but simply using what you own. That honesty can be highly liberating.
Reddit
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Personal Financial Transformation
Especially meaningful for former shopaholics, the trend offers self-discipline, healing, and reclaiming control. Reddit users reflect on how no-buys and mindless spending took a toll—and that this movement offers a healthier alternative.
Reddit

"This also lead to the realization that an 'underconsumption' mindset is not the answer... I've been trying to buy my way to underconsumption, which is an exercise in futility." — r/shoppingaddiction
Reddit

Criticisms & Caveats
Can come off as performative or virtue-signalling: Some creators misuse the trend to posture rather than genuinely reduce consumption.
The Australian
YouTube

Risk of romanticizing poverty: For some, "underconsumption" is just economic necessity—not a lifestyle choice.
The Cut
The Guardian

Potential extremism: Experts warn that too-strict frugality may drain joy—balance is key.
CNBC

The Former Shopaholic's Path to "Why We Need It"
For someone who once shopped obsessively, underconsumption core can:

Interrupt destructive habits: Instead of shopping to fill an emotional gap, it encourages reflection—"Do I actually need this?"

Rebuild financial confidence: Every item used to its fullest, every purchase delayed or canceled, is a win.

Provide a new identity: You're no longer a "shopaholic"; you become someone more grounded, intentional, aligned with purpose.

Summary
We need TikTok's underconsumption core because it fosters:

Conscious living in a hyper-commercial world.

Emotional and financial healing after compulsive shopping.

A shift from "more" to "enough," resulting in clarity, sustainability, and peace.

If you'd like, I can also point you to creators or resources led by ex-shopaholics sharing their journey within this trend—just let me know!

Further reading on "underconsumption core"


Business Insider
What is 'underconsumption core'? A new trend on TikTok aims to get GenZ to buy less.
Jul 28, 2024


Real Simple
TikTok's 'Underconsumption Core' Trend Could Help You Declutter Your Life
Aug 2, 2024


The Guardian
Reuse that teabag! Ignore that special offer! It's time to join the underconsumer revolution