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Brazil’s health regulator Anvisa has prohibited the use of two chemical substances, TPO and DMPT, in cosmetic products, particularly those used for artificial nails. The measure, approved on 29 October 2025, seeks to safeguard public health from reproductive toxicity and cancer risks, while aligning Brazil’s regulatory framework with European Union standards.
Key Insights
Immediate restrictions and market withdrawal deadlines
The banned substances are diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide (TPO) and N,N-dimethyl-p-toluidine (DMPT). These ingredients are commonly found in gel and LED-cured nail polishes and artificial nail applications.
Effective immediately, the resolution prohibits the manufacture, import, and registration of new products containing these substances. Distributors and retailers have 90 days to cease sales, with all existing registrations cancelled after that period. Companies are required to recall remaining stock from the market once the deadline passes.
Why were TPO and DMPT banned?
The ban stems from international toxicological studies indicating serious health risks:
- DMPT has been classified as potentially carcinogenic to humans.
- TPO is considered toxic to reproduction and may impair fertility.
Daniela Marreco, the Anvisa director overseeing the decision, highlighted that although occupational risk is lower, the cumulative effects of long-term exposure (especially for nail professionals) justify a precautionary regulatory approach. This move aims to prevent products considered unsafe in other markets from circulating in Brazil.
Substance identifiers and product labelling
To aid industry compliance and consumer awareness, Anvisa published detailed naming conventions for the substances. TPO may appear on labels as:
- Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide
- Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide
- Óxido de difenil (2,4,6-trimetilbenzolil) fosfina
DMPT may also be labelled as:
- N,N-dimethyl-p-toluidine
- Dimethylptolylamine
- 4-Dimethylaminotoluene
Consumers and professionals are advised to examine ingredient lists closely to identify these variants.
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