Influencer charged with death of businessman after Peeling with Phenol
A 27-year-old businessman died after undergoing a phenol peel at an influencer's clinic in São Paulo
Businessman Henrique Silva Chagas, 27, died on June 3 in São Paulo after undergoing a phenol peel at the clinic of influencer Natalia Fabiana de Freitas Antonio, known on social networks as Natalia Becker. The procedure, which was carried out at the Natalia Becker Studio in Campo Belo, resulted in a tragedy that has generated a deep police investigation.
How did the death occur?
Henrique, accompanied by his boyfriend Marcelo Camargo, arrived at the Natalia Becker Studio to undergo the peeling. After a facial cleansing and application of an anesthetic, he was administered phenol. Marcelo, who had left the room, returned to find Henrique breathing heavily. Natalia and her team tried to help him, but Henrique died before the Mobile Emergency Care Service (Samu) arrived.
What is phenol peeling?
Phenol peeling is an aesthetic treatment that uses a highly acidic organic compound to cause an inflammatory reaction in the skin, helping to reduce blemishes and scars. However, this procedure carries significant risks and must be performed by doctors.
Investigation and possible causes of death
The 27th Police Division (DP) of Campo Belo investigates the causes of Henrique's death. One of the hypotheses is a possible allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock to phenol. Experts suggest that inhalation of the product could have caused asphyxiation and subsequent cardiac arrest. Necroscopic and toxicological examinations were performed to determine the exact cause of death, and equipment and medications were confiscated from the clinic for forensic analysis.
The position of the influencer and the authorities
Natalia Becker, who is neither a doctor nor a dermatology specialist, appeared to testify two days after the incident. She claimed to have used phenol attenuated to 30% and expressed her sadness at what had happened. Delegate Eduardo Luis Ferreira charged Natalia with intentional homicide, arguing that she accepted the inherent risk of the procedure. The clinic was closed by the Municipality of São Paulo for operating without the necessary authorization to perform phenol peels.
Influencer training
Natalia completed a free online course on phenol peeling, taught by pharmacist Daniele Stuart. The National Association of Estheticians and Cosmetologists (Anesco) declared that Natalia cannot be considered a qualified esthetician to perform this type of invasive procedures.
Reaction of the victim's family
Henrique's family and boyfriend, represented by his lawyers, suspect possible poisoning prior to the procedure due to products recommended by Natalia. The investigation focuses on determining all the circumstances that led to the tragic death of the businessman.