68 Uplifting Responses When a Guy Calls Himself Ugly

Ever been caught off guard when a guy says, “I’m so ugly”? It’s tricky—you want to boost his confidence without sounding fake.

I’ve been there with friends and dates. It’s like walking a tightrope: lifting them up without seeming insincere.

That’s why I’ve created this list of 68 responses for when a guy calls himself ugly. It’s your toolkit for handling these moments with grace and authenticity.

From funny comebacks to heartfelt words, these responses cover all bases, fitting any relationship and mood.

Ready to turn his self-doubt around? Let’s explore these uplifting replies!

Compassionate and Supportive Responses

1. “I’m sorry you’re feeling that way about yourself. I see so much more in you.”

This response acknowledges his feelings while gently challenging his perspective.

2. “You know, we’re often our own harshest critics. I wish you could see yourself through my eyes.”

Reminding him that our self-perception is often skewed can be eye-opening.

3. “That’s not true at all. What makes you say that?”

Encouraging him to explore the root of his feelings can lead to a deeper conversation.

4. “I hate hearing you talk about yourself that way. You have so many amazing qualities.”

Expressing your discomfort with his self-criticism can prompt him to reconsider his words.

5. “Everyone has days when they don’t feel their best. But that doesn’t define who you are.”

This response normalizes his feelings while putting them in perspective.

Related Read: 25 Motivational Messages For A Hard-Working Boyfriend

6. “I understand feeling insecure sometimes, but I hope you know how wonderful you truly are.”

Showing empathy while reinforcing your positive view of him.

7. “Your worth isn’t determined by your appearance. You’re so much more than that.”

Reminding him of the bigger picture can help shift his focus from physical appearance.

8. “It breaks my heart to hear you say that. You’re incredible, inside and out.”

Expressing how his words affect you can make him more aware of their impact.

9. “I wish I could lend you my eyes for a day so you could see how amazing you are.”

This poetic response can be particularly touching.

10. “You’re entitled to your opinion, but I respectfully disagree. Here’s what I see…”

Acknowledging his view while firmly stating your own can be powerful.

Humorous Deflections

11. “Ugly? You must be looking at a funhouse mirror then!”

A playful way to challenge his perception without being too serious.

12. “Ugly? No way! You’re a solid 9.5… out of 5!”

This over-the-top compliment can lighten the mood and make him smile.

13. “If you’re ugly, then I must be a swamp monster. Wanna form a club?”

Self-deprecating humor can help him feel less alone in his insecurities.

14. “Ugly? Please. You’re so handsome, statues get jealous when you walk by.”

An exaggerated compliment that’s sure to get a chuckle.

15. “Ugly? Nah, you’re just not your type!”

This clever response suggests that beauty is subjective.

16. “Well, if you’re ugly, then ugly is the new gorgeous!”

Turning his words on their head in a humorous way.

17. “Ugly? You misspelled ‘ruggedly handsome’.”

A playful correction that contradicts his self-criticism.

18. “If you’re ugly, then I need to get my eyes checked because all I see is awesome.”

This response combines humor with a genuine compliment.

19. “Ugly? Oh no, did someone cast an ugly spell on you? Quick, look in the mirror and say ‘handsome’ three times!”

A whimsical response that plays with the idea of magic and self-perception.

20. “Ugly? Are you fishing for compliments? Because you just caught a big one – you’re fantastic!”

Calling out potential compliment-fishing in a lighthearted way.

Redirecting the Conversation

21. “Let’s talk about what makes you feel good about yourself instead.”

Shifting the focus to positive self-reflection can be helpful.

22. “I’d rather hear about your favorite feature. What do you like most about yourself?”

Encouraging him to focus on his positive attributes.

23. “Appearance isn’t everything. Tell me about a time you felt really proud of yourself.”

This response steers the conversation towards accomplishments and character.

24. “Instead of focusing on looks, let’s talk about what makes you an awesome person.”

Redirecting to personality traits and actions can boost self-esteem.

25. “You know what’s really attractive? Confidence. Let’s work on building that up.”

This response acknowledges the importance of self-assurance.

26. “I’m more interested in hearing about your passions. What gets you excited?”

Shifting to topics he’s passionate about can help improve his mood.

27. “Let’s make a list of your best qualities. I’ll start: you’re kind, funny, and…”

Actively listing his positive traits can be a powerful exercise.

28. “How about we focus on what you can do rather than how you look?”

This response emphasizes abilities over appearance.

29. “I’d love to hear about a goal you’re working towards. That’s what really matters.”

Focusing on aspirations can boost motivation and self-worth.

30. “Let’s talk about the last time you made someone smile. That’s true beauty.”

This response redefines beauty in terms of positive impact on others.

Complimentary Responses

31. “Are you kidding? Your smile lights up the room!”

Highlighting a specific feature can feel more genuine than general compliments.

32. “Ugly? No way. You’ve got those gorgeous eyes that crinkle when you laugh.”

Specific, detailed compliments are often more believable.

33. “I love how expressive your face is. It’s one of your best features.”

Complimenting something beyond conventional attractiveness can be meaningful.

34. “You’ve got that classic, timeless look. Like a young [insert classic movie star].”

Comparing him to a well-known attractive figure can boost confidence.

35. “Your style is always on point. You’ve got great taste.”

Complimenting his choices rather than innate features can be empowering.

36. “You’ve got such a warm, inviting presence. It’s really attractive.”

Focusing on the overall impression he gives can be powerful.

37. “I love how your whole face lights up when you talk about [his passion].”

Tying his appearance to his enthusiasm can be a unique compliment.

38. “You’ve got that rugged, manly charm. It’s very appealing.”

Emphasizing traditionally masculine traits can boost some men’s confidence.

39. “Your voice is so soothing. I could listen to you talk all day.”

Complimenting non-visual attributes can be unexpected and appreciated.

40. “You’ve got great bone structure. You could be a model!”

Pointing out conventionally attractive features can contradict his self-perception.

Thought-Provoking Responses

41. “What would you say to a friend who called themselves ugly?”

This question can help him realize how harsh he’s being on himself.

42. “Do you think people who care about you see you that way?”

Encouraging him to consider others’ perspectives can be eye-opening.

43. “How do you define beauty? Because I bet you embody a lot of those qualities.”

This response challenges him to think more deeply about what beauty means.

44. “Would you judge someone else’s worth based on their appearance?”

This question can help him realize the unfairness of his self-judgment.

45. “Do you think confidence plays a role in attractiveness?”

Exploring the connection between confidence and appeal can be insightful.

46. “How much of our appearance can we control, and how much is genetic lottery?”

This question can lead to a discussion about the factors influencing appearance.

47. “Do you think your opinion of yourself might be clouded by societal standards?”

Examining the influence of societal beauty standards can be enlightening.

48. “How has your perception of yourself changed over time?”

Exploring how self-image evolves can provide perspective on current feelings.

49. “What would it take for you to see yourself as attractive?”

This question can help identify specific insecurities to address.

50. “Do you think attractiveness is more about how you carry yourself than how you look?”

Shifting focus to demeanor and confidence can be empowering.

Actionable Advice

51. “Let’s find activities that make you feel good about yourself.”

Suggesting practical steps can be more helpful than mere words.

52. “How about we work on positive self-talk together?”

Offering to be a partner in improving self-image can be supportive.

53. “Have you considered talking to a professional about these feelings?”

Gently suggesting therapy can be appropriate if his self-esteem issues seem serious.

54. “Let’s make a list of your achievements. It might change your perspective.”

Focusing on accomplishments can boost overall self-worth.

55. “How about we start each day with three positive affirmations?”

Suggesting a concrete practice for improving self-image.

56. “Why don’t we find some confidence-boosting exercises to try together?”

Offering to join him in self-improvement can be encouraging.

57. “Let’s plan a day doing things that make you feel great about yourself.”

Planning positive experiences can help combat negative self-image.

58. “How about we work on surrounding ourselves with positive influences?”

Suggesting environmental changes can support improved self-perception.

59. “Why don’t we set some personal growth goals that aren’t about appearance?”

Focusing on non-physical self-improvement can boost overall confidence.

60. “Let’s practice giving and receiving compliments. It’s a skill we can improve.”

Treating positive self-talk as a learnable skill can be empowering.

Cultural Commentary

61. “You know, beauty standards are constantly changing. What’s considered attractive varies wildly across cultures and time periods.”

This response provides a broader perspective on beauty.

62. “I think we’re all influenced by unrealistic media portrayals of beauty. It’s important to recognize that.”

Acknowledging the impact of media can help contextualize his feelings.

63. “Did you know that symmetry is often associated with attractiveness? But some of the most striking faces have unique features.”

Sharing facts about attractiveness can provide interesting context.

64. “In some cultures, features you might consider flaws are seen as marks of beauty.”

This response highlights the subjective nature of attractiveness.

65. “Studies show that confidence is often rated as more attractive than physical features.”

Sharing scientific insights can lend weight to the importance of confidence.

66. “You know, the ‘dad bod’ trend shows how beauty standards are always evolving.”

Using current trends as examples can illustrate the fluidity of attractiveness.

67. “Many famously attractive people have spoken about feeling ugly. It shows how subjective and unreliable our self-perceptions can be.”

Sharing examples of attractive people with insecurities can be comforting.

68. “The bodypuess movement is challenging traditional beauty standards. It’s an interesting shift in our culture.”

Discussing current social movements can provide hope and perspective.

Wrapping It Up

Dealing with self-deprecation can be tough, but these responses give you options. Your goal is to shift his perspective and boost self-esteem, not just contradict him. 

Whether you use humor, insights, or advice, be genuine and supportive. Your words matter. By choosing the right response, you’re not just disagreeing – you’re potentially changing his mindset. That’s truly beautiful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)