Detailed checks for cosmetics

Remember Deketeke

Herald Reporter

Cosmetics will come under more detailed health regulations now being prepared by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) to safeguard consumer health and enhance product quality.

Some cosmetics have been found to contain toxic compounds including lead, arsenic, mercury, and other toxic substances that can irritate skin, trigger severe allergic reactions, or even cause long-term health problems. The legal changes will empower MCAZ to recall harmful cosmetics substances.

In a press statement issued by MCAZ director-general, Mr Richard Rukwata yesterday said the regulation will deal with issues raised by the widespread use of inferior cosmetics.

“The regulations, known as Medicines and Allied Substances Control (Cosmetics) Regulations seek to address growing concerns over the proliferation of sub-standard, falsified, and potentially harmful cosmetic products in Zimbabwe,” reads the statement.

“MCAZ has identified several issues requiring stricter oversight, including the use of harmful ingredients, poor product quality, and lack of traceability.”

The framework will be the roadmap to defining and testing cosmetic products.

“Under the proposed regulatory framework, MCAZ will establish guidelines for defining, registering, labelling, and testing cosmetic products,” said Mr Rukwata.

“Manufacturers, importers, and distributors must comply with stringent safety and quality standards, submit detailed product information for evaluation, and adhere to proper labelling and marketing practices.”