Ban on silver in nail products? Here's what you need to know about the new EU regulations starting May 1, 2026.

Lately, there has been a lot of discussion about ingredients in cosmetics again. Perhaps you've already seen it: a new European regulation is restricting the use of certain substances. This time, it concerns silver. But what does this really mean for your favorite gel polish? We'll explain it to you!

1. What exactly is going on?

On January 12, 2026, the new European Regulation (EU) 2026/78, also known as Omnibus VIII, was published. This legislation amends the general cosmetics regulation and sets stricter limits on the use of silver in certain cosmetic products.

This specifically concerns silver with the following characteristics:

• INCI name: Silver
• Color code: CI 77820
• CAS number: 7440-22-4

2. The deadline: May 1, 2026

The rules are strict: from May 1, 2026, products containing this specific form of silver may no longer be offered on the market. Brands and distributors must therefore ensure that their stocks comply with the new requirements by then. It is important to know that these restrictions only apply to very specifically described applications; it does not completely exclude the use of silver in other categories, provided it complies with the law.

3. Don't panic: The situation at Mistero Milano

Now you're probably wondering: "Do I have to throw away my Mistero Milano gel polish colors?" The short answer is: No. Mistero Milano has clearly confirmed that they currently do not have any products in their portfolio that contain the relevant silver (CI 77820) that falls under these restrictions. Therefore, no products need to be removed from the shelves and sales can continue as usual.

4. Why is it sometimes on the label then?

It can be confusing: you read that there is no silver in it, but on some bottles you still see "CI 77820" or "may contain." How is that possible?

This is purely a formal matter. According to the law, for collections with many different shades, brands may use a collective list of dyes (the well-known +/- list). For the 2025 collection, specific research has been conducted into, among others:

• 1551 Magic in the air
• 1552 Shine, don't ask!
• 1554 Festive Star
• 1556 Today we celebrate!

Analyses show that the colors actually sold do not contain silver (CI 77820). The mention on the packaging was solely for full transparency and to comply with labeling regulations.

5. Safety first

At Mistero Milano, transparency is key. In 2025, an extensive safety report was drawn up for the aforementioned products (no. 02/042025/APM/EN). You can therefore trust that the products you use have been extensively tested and comply with all current safety requirements. This way, you can continue to create beautiful nails with peace of mind!