Dr Matthew Lani Returns With Skincare Range, Sparks Social Media Frenzy

by Zaghrah Anthony

Dr Matthew Lani Is Back And This Time, It’s Skincare

Just when South Africans thought they’d seen the last of Matthew Lani, the self-styled “Dr” is back in the spotlight and not for medical advice. Lani, previously exposed as a fake doctor, has now pivoted to selling his own skincare range, and, predictably, social media has erupted.

@matthew._lani #foryoupage #tiktoksa ♬ Vlog – Soft boy

On Monday, he shared a video showing his skin “before and after” using Lani Skincare. In the clip, he claims his skin used to be riddled with dark spots and hyperpigmentation. “You guys can see I really had bad dark spots, hyper-pigmentation. Guys, it was bad,” he says, pointing to a face that looks suspiciously dotted with artificial marks.

@matthew._lani #foryoupage #tiktoksa ♬ Jealous – Beyoncé

He then showcases his current glowing complexion and his skincare line, with captions comparing it to popular American products like Carolight. But viewers quickly noticed the inconsistencies. His “before” picture shows the same t-shirt, and the transformation appears more like a filter than actual results. The product shots themselves drew attention for looking AI-generated.

Social Media Is Having a Field Day

As expected, X (formerly Twitter) users were quick to call out Lani’s antics:

  • @Mrskillmonger1 tweeted: “Biggest Scammer in Mzanzi. Netflix should do a docu series about this guy.”

  • @Lee-url commented: “What’s even crazier some people actually fall for this.”

  • @Chris_Nkuna added: “There’s doing things for attention and views, there’s this kid who lives in his own little world where he created this perfect life where he’s a DR and running a big business. I love whatever is wrong with him, shame.”

The online reaction mixes incredulity, humor, and exasperation, reflecting the South African social media landscape’s fascination with over-the-top personalities.

A Familiar Pattern

Lani first rose to fame as a TikTok “medical doctor” dispensing health advice. However, investigations later revealed he held no medical qualifications. He falsely claimed a medical degree from Wits University and a high school diploma from Cambridge International College. Both institutions publicly refuted his claims.

In addition, Lani allegedly posed as a medical intern at Helen Joseph Hospital and reportedly used the identity of a second-year medical intern named Dr Sanele Sobani Vambani Zingelwa. The exposure was a huge scandal, leaving many South Africans questioning how someone could gain such influence despite a false background.

Skincare or Another Illusion?

Now, Lani’s venture into skincare seems like a continuation of his knack for theatrics and self-promotion. While some might see it as harmless marketing, the video’s exaggerated before-and-after shots and AI-generated imagery suggest a masterclass in illusion rather than a legitimate product launch.

Whether people will buy into it or simply enjoy the spectacle, remains to be seen. One thing is certain: in the South African online community, Lani’s antics are never quietly ignored.

Source: IOL

Featured Image: X{@PhilMphela}