THE WOMEN’S EXPERIENCE OF USING SLIMMING PRODUCTS MIXED WITH PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES

Increasing demand from consumers especially among women has led to an increase in the diversity of slimming products in the market. Slimming products are often advertised in the media. Women's tendency to obtain slimming products is driven by their desire to look slim and beautiful. However, not all slimming products in the market are safe to be taken. In Malaysia, there are slimming products that are mixed with illicit substances including the poisons listed in the Poison Act 1952 and the dangerous drugs listed in the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. The use of slimming products hence has the potential to result in negative implications for the health of consumers. This study aimed to explore the effects of slimming products containing prohibited substances experienced by female consumers who involved in the industries demanding their attractive and slim look. A total of 14 respondents, including models, flight attendants, and artists, were interviewed to get a picture of the slimming product using trend. The findings show that all respondents achieved the desired weight loss after taking slimming products. However, the achieved weight loss did not prolong due to an unbalanced diet practice. In addition, the study found that respondents also suffered from physical and emotional disorders as a result of the use of slimming products containing illicit substances. Based on the findings, a number of suggestions have been submitted, namely, a review of occupational policies and guidelines that make size and weight as a job specification and an enhancement of education methods for consumers to increase their legal knowledge and consumerism.