MWE Correspondent
A growing beauty trend involving body piercing on areas such as the navel and tongue is gaining popularity among young people in Tanzania, even as medical experts warn of potential health risks, including infections, complications, and long-term oral damage.
The practice, increasingly offered in beauty salons and spas across major urban centres such as Dar es Salaam, involves creating small openings on or near the navel or tongue before inserting jewellery such as rings or studs for decorative purposes.
Service providers say the procedure typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the client and the area being pierced. Healing time, however, varies widely—from a few days to several weeks, and in some cases up to three months, depending on individual recovery and hygiene practices.
Costs for the procedure start at around Sh25,000, making it relatively accessible to young customers attracted by fashion trends circulating on social media platforms and celebrity culture.
Practitioners advise clients to maintain strict hygiene during the healing process, including keeping the pierced area dry and avoiding swimming until full recovery is achieved.
“We advise clients not to expose the wound to water. Those who swim should avoid it until full recovery,” said a Dar es Salaam-based practitioner, noting that improper care can delay healing or lead to complications.
Despite growing demand, some young people say their experiences have been mixed. While a number report smooth healing, others describe ongoing discomfort, repeated cleaning routines, and in some cases regret after undergoing the procedure.
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“I have to clean it regularly. It has been a struggle,” said one young participant who admitted regretting getting a piercing, citing persistent irritation during the healing period.
Medical professionals, however, warn that the trend is not without serious health implications. They caution that introducing foreign objects into the body can create pathways for bacteria, potentially leading to infections, swelling, or allergic reactions.
Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr Lauren Rwanyuma of Muhimbili National Hospital–Mloganzila said complications may arise when the body reacts negatively to foreign materials inserted into sensitive tissue.
He noted that while some cases heal without incident, others may develop inflammation or longer-term medical issues if proper hygiene standards are not maintained.
Dentist Dr Hudson Mfinanga further warned that tongue piercings carry additional risks, including accidental swallowing of jewellery, chipped teeth, and oral infections, stressing the importance of professional sterilisation and aftercare.
Health experts are urging both clients and beauty service providers to adhere to strict safety and hygiene protocols to reduce risks, as the trend continues to spread among young people influenced by online fashion culture..
