MPs Raise Alarm Over Harmful Skin-Lightening Creams

The National Assembly resumed sittings this Tuesday, with lawmakers expressing concern over the widespread use of skin-lightening creams, citing serious health risks linked to the unregulated products.

The creams, readily available on street corners in Harare and other urban centres, are often sold without proper oversight or approval. Legislators are calling for stricter penalties against those distributing the products.

Parliamentarians highlighted that many of these creams contain harmful substances such as mercury, hydroquinone, and steroids, which are known to cause liver and kidney damage, nervous system disorders, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Concerns were also raised about the long-term impact of the products on women’s reproductive health, particularly during attempts to conceive.

Calls were made for the launch of nationwide public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the dangers of using unregulated skin-lightening products.

It was also noted that most of the creams in circulation have not been tested or approved by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe, raising additional concerns about public health and safety.