Thuli Phongolo Calls Out Rich Men Over Poor Hygiene: “Designer Clothes Can’t Mask Bad Breath!”

South African actress and popular club DJ, Thuli Phongolo—widely known as Thuli P—has stirred social media with a fiery message aimed at wealthy men who care more about wearing expensive designer clothes than taking care of their hygiene and health.

On Wednesday, 27 August 2025, Thuli took to her Instagram stories to express her frustration and even shared an idea she has been considering: starting a page or business that offers personal hygiene tips, specifically for men.

“I want to start a business/page where I give step-to-step personal hygiene tips! Especially for men,” she wrote. “I just don’t get it. Why would a person have so much access, information, social media, Google, family, friends etc., and still lack personal hygiene or the desire to fix things that could contribute to your wellbeing and confidence?”

Thuli P didn’t hold back in her passionate message, criticising the trend of men dressing in head-to-toe designer brands while ignoring basic self-care.

“Imagine being dripped in designer head-to-toe but you suffer from halitosis. PLEASE MAN, FOR YOURSELF! ADOPT A PERSONAL HYGIENE ROUTINE. HAVE DOCTORS THAT CAN ADVISE ACCORDINGLY FOR DIFFERENT HEALTH CONCERNS (research on the Internet if you don’t have the means) – WORK ON YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AS WELL – GO TO GYM OR EXERCISE AT HOME. THE BIG BELLIES AREN’T HEALTHY. It’s not a look; it’s a health concern – FIX YOUR TEETH – EAT WELL – READ – BE NEAT.”

In her final comments, Thuli P emphasised that money should never be seen as a replacement for basic hygiene, good health, or self-respect.

“Having money does not substitute thee above. GENTLEMEN PLEASE, most of you are slacking!” she said. “The ladies sent me to tell you that we are suffering and you speak so close to our faces.”

Her honest rant has sparked plenty of conversation online, with many agreeing that wealth shouldn’t excuse anyone from taking care of their body, breath, or overall health.