why do so many people get hung up on looks? they fade over time but what is inside only grows.

Agree, personality is so much more important in the long run. Looks attract initially but if someone's personality is ugly they become instantly ugly all around

If you don't try to look good, you give off the image of someone who doesn't care about themselves 🤷
You decide yourself how people perceive you, and different looks = different impressions. If you come out lookin like a slob people are going to think you're a slob so getting hung up on looks is gucci imo

The inside can diminish as well.
To answer your question though, we are just programmed that way. Instict tells us to pick the most suitable mate for procreation, and society decides what is suitable

Often it is about health and being with someone who shares your view of how important health is. Health people tend to look better than unhealthy people. It is good to be fit.

You dont have to look like a knockout, but, it doesnt hurt to at least look somewhat appealing.

that makes the physical more precious

I ask myself the same question all the time

Perky breasts and legs that don't quit makes me horny though.