HARARE, Apr. 20 (NewsDay Live) — A four-day Skin and Wellness Conference opened in Harare on Monday, bringing together more than 200 local and international delegates in a convergence of science, beauty and wellness.
The event, running until Thursday at a local hotel,, sets the tone for a more rigorous, ethics-driven industry dialogue where aesthetic practice is anchored in science and professional standards.
Organised by Elite Wellness Consultancy under the theme “Raising Professional Standards in Skin and Wellness,” the conference blends cosmetology, clinical insight and business strategy through keynote addresses, panels and masterclasses. Event director Nomsa Mlambo led proceedings, while founder Grace Zichawo — the driving force behind the initiative — positioned the platform as a catalyst for elevating Zimbabwe’s wellness sector.
In her keynote address, Zichawo urged practitioners to move beyond trends and prioritise knowledge, ethics and accountability. She stressed that professionalism requires scientific understanding, consistent service delivery and client-centred care.
“Raising standards is not optional,” she said, calling on practitioners to prioritise safety over popularity in an era shaped by fast-moving social media trends.
She also announced the launch of Elite Wellness Consultancy, aimed at supporting structured, ethical and commercially viable wellness enterprises.
The programme follows a deliberate progression, starting with foundational science and expanding into complex industry discussions. Pharmacist and health literacy advocate Reuben Kathumba highlighted the skin barrier as the body’s first line of defence, explaining how its disruption leads to sensitivity, dehydration and inflammation. He cautioned against over-exfoliation, harsh products and improper layering, stressing that effective treatment begins with a sound understanding of skin structure.
Medical-focused sessions underscored the risks of unregulated cosmetic procedures, warning that inadequate training can turn routine treatments into medical emergencies. The discussions reinforced the need for clear professional boundaries between aesthetic therapy and medical practice.
- Beauty meets science at wellness conference
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Addressing the intersection of science and consumer behaviour, Tendai Ngorima examined the growing tension between clinical credibility and social media influence. She pointed to the rise of ingredient-led skincare trends, often misunderstood by consumers, and urged practitioners to prioritise education and ethical consultation over profit-driven decisions.
Panels further explored the link between care and commerce. Moderated by Faustina Muswerakuenda, one discussion reframed retail as an extension of treatment, emphasising the role of home-care products in sustaining results. Another panel, led by Felisha Muzeya, focused on entrepreneurship, highlighting resilience, innovation and navigating sector challenges.
Speakers also outlined global trends shaping the industry, including integrated care models, personalised treatments and continuous professional development. Contributions from international training bodies such as VTCT Skills (ITEC Qualifications) reinforced the importance of globally benchmarked education standards.
Against the backdrop of a rapidly expanding global wellness economy, the conference highlights the growing emphasis on preventive health, skin integrity and holistic care. Such platforms are increasingly critical for knowledge exchange, professional alignment and maintaining competitiveness in a fast-evolving sector.
Award-winning film actor and producer Chiedza Kissa said the conference underscored the importance of informed skincare and wellness practices.
“We should seek expert guidance rather than experimenting blindly with our skin and wellness. It’s inspiring to be among people committed to holistic health,” she said.
As the conference continues, delegates are expected to participate in hands-on tutorials and advanced masterclasses, reinforcing a shared commitment to excellence. The message running through the event is clear: true beauty is not only seen — it is understood, protected and practiced with integrity.
