As money women pursue the “perfect body” […]

As money women pursue the “perfect body” Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia (MQHZ) has warned that the growing use of unapproved cosmetic procedures and buttock enlargement products is putting the lives of many Zambians at risk, with some cases resulting in permanent disability or even death.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Zambian Business Times -ZBT, MQHZ Executive Director Dr. Quince Mwabu urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution when considering cosmetic enhancements, stressing that beauty should never come at the expense of health and safety. Mwabu said while people have the right to make personal choices about their appearance, those decisions should be guided by accurate health information and carried out by qualified healthcare professionals in licensed medical facilities.

He expressed concern over the increasing use of unapproved injections, fillers and other substances marketed for buttock enlargement, as well as creams and cosmetic products that promise rapid body transformation without credible scientific evidence of their safety or effectiveness.

 “Many of these products are sold through informal channels and online platforms where their authenticity, quality and safety cannot be verified. Some may contain harmful or undeclared ingredients, while others may be counterfeit or unregistered,” Mwabu said.

 He warned that the use of unsafe cosmetic products and procedures can result in severe infections, allergic reactions, tissue damage, chronic pain, permanent disfigurement, blocked blood vessels, organ damage and, in severe cases, death. Mwabu added that , some patients who d develop complications require prolonged medical treatment, corrective surgery and longterm healthcare, placing an unnecessary burden on Zambia’s healthcare system through conditions that are largely preventable. He advised individuals considering cosmetic enhancement to seek professional medical advice and ensure that any procedure is performed in a licensed health facility using products approved by the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA).

Mwabu also urged consumers to avoid purchasing cosmetic products from unverified online sellers or informal traders, cautioning that claims of quick or permanent body enhancement should be treated with scepticism unless supported by reliable scientific evidence. He further emphasised the need for increased public education, particularly among young people, noting that the growing influence of social media, celebrity culture and changing beauty standards should not pressure individuals into making decisions that could endanger their health.

Mwabu called on ZAMRA and other relevant government institutions to strengthen public awareness campaigns, intensify market surveillance and strictly enforce regulations against the manufacture, importation, distribution and sale of unsafe cosmetic products. He said protecting public health requires strong regulation, responsible healthcare practices and informed decision-making by consumers.

“Beauty and personal appearance are important to many people, but they should never come at the expense of health and safety,” he said He encouraged all Zambians to prioritise their wellbeing by seeking safe, evidence based healthcare services and avoiding cosmetic practices that may place their lives at unnecess sary risk.

Article by Karen Ngulube