Zari Hassan has broken her silence on the online debate surrounding her appearance, confirming that she recently underwent a temporary facial lift and making it clear that she has no regrets.
The South Afrcian-based Ugandan socialite and businesswoman addressed the criticism in a video circulating online, explaining that her appearance is more than a matter of personal preference.
She says her image drives her business and helps her secure lucrative endorsement deals.
Who earns anything from my face? It is my face, and my responsibility to take care of it because I earn a living from it.
Zari explained that many of the endorsement deals she has secured over the years came because brands associate her with beauty and a polished public image.
My look is my investment, and my face is important. Most of the brand and endorsement businesses I have, from cosmetics to Samsung, it is because of my face and looking good.
Her response follows online speculation after recent photos and videos of her sparked debate across social media.
While some users claimed she had undergone a facelift, others attributed her refreshed appearance to makeup, lighting, camera angles, or a different hairstyle.
Zari, however, rejected claims that she had undergone a full facelift.
Everybody grows, and I had noticed that age was kind of catching up with me, so I did a temporary lift, not a facelift like people were saying.
She also brushed aside the attention surrounding her appearance, saying public scrutiny has become part of her life as one of East Africa’s most recognisable celebrities.
I am not surprised that Ugandans are talking about me because they have to. I am talked about nationally and internationally.
Zari ended the conversation by encouraging women who can afford cosmetic procedures to invest in themselves instead of worrying about criticism.
I advise any lady out there to take care of themselves if they have or get the money. It is not a crime.