The Health Professions Authority Zimbabwe (HPAZ) has raised concerns over a growing number of cosmetic and beauty procedures being offered outside regulated medical facilities.
HPAZ Secretary General Clotilda Chimbwanda warned that some treatments are invasive and should only be performed by qualified healthcare professionals.
“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 required medical licenses or qualified personnel,” Chimbwanda said in a statement.
Invasive procedures include Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL), liposuction, tummy tucks, breast augmentation, breast reduction and lifts, rhinoplasty, facelifts, chin and cheek implants, Botox, dermal fillers, deep chemical peels, microneedling with PRP, IV vitamin infusions, and injection-based fat reduction.
Chimbwanda highlighted that Section 121 of the Health Professions Act (Chapter 27:19) prohibits anyone from practising as a health professional or performing medical procedures without proper registration. Section 99 also forbids operating a health institution unless it is registered with HPAZ.
“Performing medical acts like injections or chemical treatments outside a health facility is a direct violation of the law. Any unregistered facility offering medical-grade cosmetic procedures is illegal,” she said.
Chimbwanda added that some operators misrepresent their qualifications, noting that Section 126 makes it a criminal offence to claim registration or perform duties reserved for licensed professionals without proper credentials.
She urged the public to verify credentials before undergoing any procedure. “Check for the HPA registration certificate, which must be displayed in the reception area. Also, ask to see the practitioner’s current practising certificate. Report any suspicious activity or facilities that refuse to show their credentials,” Chimbwanda advised.