Zimbabwe lawmakers want stricter rules for skin-lightening creams, as they say they harm users. Parliament members met Wednesday to discuss new limits on these products, which remain easy to find despite past laws against them. MP Kiven Mutimbanyoka asked for better control over sales and imports, and other officials agreed that tougher penalties must come soon.
MP Perseverance Zhou pointed out the dangers of mercury, hydroquinone, and steroids in these creams, which can damage kidneys and livers and cause fertility problems. Noah Mangondo criticized weak enforcement of current bans and asked government agencies to work together to stop illegal shipments. Daniel Molokele-Tsiye called for a careful approach that respects personal choice but protects public health.
Many banned creams still reach buyers through street markets and smuggling. Some beauty shops even offer untested shots and pills for skin lightening that health officials have never approved. Unless rules improve, lawmakers fear these products will keep harming people across the country. The government faces pressure to act fast for consumer safety.
MP Perseverance Zhou pointed out the dangers of mercury, hydroquinone, and steroids in these creams, which can damage kidneys and livers and cause fertility problems. Noah Mangondo criticized weak enforcement of current bans and asked government agencies to work together to stop illegal shipments. Daniel Molokele-Tsiye called for a careful approach that respects personal choice but protects public health.
Many banned creams still reach buyers through street markets and smuggling. Some beauty shops even offer untested shots and pills for skin lightening that health officials have never approved. Unless rules improve, lawmakers fear these products will keep harming people across the country. The government faces pressure to act fast for consumer safety.
