You can spot them everywhere. Whether typing on computers or gesturing mid-conversation, you’ve noticed someone with “perfect” gel nails. They’ve become a quiet symbol of composure and style at school. Even when long nails complicate athletes’ and pianists’ work, they’re still worn for an effortless elegance that lasts for weeks. What started as a harmless beauty trend became a ritual in teenagers’ maintenance. But with new scientific knowledge and strict regulations being implemented, could this nail phenomenon be coming to a close?
On Wednesday (Oct 29), ANVISA – Brazil’s health regulatory agency – banned two chemicals common in gel nail products: Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) and N,N-Dimethyl-p-Toluidine (DMPT). These substances are what differentiate gel nails from others, making them glossy and hard. But unfortunately, they can pose serious health risks, including links to cancer, infertility, and DNA damage.
This decision follows the European Union’s ban of both chemicals in September. However, because Brazil is known for its high beauty standards, this legal implementation marks a larger turning point than in many other countries.
From now on, the production or importation of any gel nail products cannot include TPO or DMPT. Additionally, salons have 90 days to make a complete shift to non-toxic products before facing federal consequences. No matter what happens, change in our beloved gel nails is inevitable.
Before running to the nearest salon to remove your nails, it’s important to note that the ban is due to accumulated exposure. In other words, doing gel nails on rare occasions won’t kill you. Anvisa’s main concern is nail technicians and others who are exposed to these chemicals more frequently. This consistent exposure can cause long-term and serious repercussions.
Now, many brands are reformulating their products with what seem to be safer chemicals and trying to prevent a crisis in their sales. With these revelations, we as consumers need to decide our priorities, and whether we’re willing to risk our safety for an always-fresh set of nails. Because even if your nails don’t contain these two toxic chemicals, maybe they have another toxin just waiting to be uncovered…
Resources:
Amazon. Modelones Gel Nail Polish Set: 6 Colors, UV LED Soak Off Nail Art Kit. Amazon, https://a.co/d/inCdX5h. Accessed 1 Nov. 2025.
