Unregistered cosmetic clinics declared illegal in Zimbabwe

Authorities have sounded the alarm over the rapid growth of unregulated cosmetic surgery and beauty procedure clinics, warning that many are operating outside the law and posing serious health risks to the public.

The Health Professions Authority Zimbabwe (HPA), the country's apex healthcare regulator, has issued a stern warning against the use of unlicensed facilities offering specialised medical and cosmetic treatments.

HPA Secretary-General, Mrs Clotilda Chimbwanda, said the authority had noted with concern that several beauty salons, wellness spas and unregistered boutiques are now providing services that legally require trained medical professionals and licensed health institutions.

"It has come to our attention that several beauty salons, wellness spas and unregistered boutiques are offering services such as teeth whitening, intravenous vitamin infusions, chemical skin peels, and other invasive cosmetic treatments without the mandatory medical licenses or qualified personnel," she said.

Mrs Chimbwanda stressed that such practices are in direct violation of the Health Professions Act, which governs the operation of healthcare services in Zimbabwe.

She highlighted key provisions of the Act, noting that Section 121 prohibits individuals from practicing as health practitioners or performing specialised medical procedures without proper registration.

"Performing medical acts like injections or chemical treatments in an environment other than a health facility is a direct violation of this law," she said.

She further explained that Section 99 of the Act makes it illegal to operate a health institution without registration from the HPA, while Section 126 criminalises falsely presenting oneself as a licensed professional or carrying out duties reserved for qualified practitioners.

The HPA said its mandate is to protect the public from unsafe and substandard healthcare practices by ensuring that facilities meet required standards for hygiene, equipment and patient safety.

The authority also emphasised that proper regulation ensures accountability, giving patients legal avenues for recourse in cases of malpractice or harm.

Members of the public have been urged to exercise caution and verify the credentials of both facilities and practitioners before undergoing any procedures.

"Before undergoing any procedure, you must check for the HPA Registration Certificate, which must be prominently displayed in the reception area. You should also verify the practitioner's license by asking to see a current Practicing Certificate from the relevant Council," Mrs Chimbwanda advised.

As the demand for cosmetic enhancements continues to grow, regulators warn that failure to comply with established health laws not only undermines professional standards but also puts lives at risk.