Anvisa Bans Two Gel-Nail Chemicals Over Cancer and Reproductive Risks

Overview

• Brazil’s health regulator approved a rule banning TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide) and DMPT/DMTA (N,N-dimethyl-p-toluidine/dimetiltolilamina) used in gel nail and related cosmetic products.
• The prohibition applies across personal care, cosmetics, and perfumes, not only nail items that cure under UV or LED light.
• Implementation begins upon official publication: manufacturing, imports, and new registrations stop immediately; sales and use must cease within 90 days; registrations are then canceled and recalls required.
• Anvisa cites international animal studies indicating DMPT/DMTA is potentially carcinogenic and TPO is toxic to reproduction, with heightened risk for salon professionals from repeated exposure.
• The decision aligns Brazil with recent European Union safety rules, and gel-nail techniques remain permitted when using compliant alternative formulations.