EU Bans TPO in Gel Nail Polish

The European Union has officially banned trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO)—a key ingredient in many gel nail polishes—effective 1 September 2025. This precautionary move has raised alarm across the beauty industry while prioritising safety.

What is TPO and why is it banned?

TPO is a photoinitiator—a chemical that helps gel polishes harden quickly under UV or LED light while maintaining vibrant colour and durability. The EU has classified it as a CMR 1B substance (potentially carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction), prompting its inclusion on the banned list.

The ban was enacted under the EU’s 7th CMR Omnibus Regulation, effective 1 September 2025. At that point, all cosmetics containing TPO must be withdrawn from the market across the 27 EU member states, plus countries like Norway and Switzerland that follow EU regulations.

What triggered the ban?

Animal studies linked TPO exposure to fertility issues and reproductive toxicity, raising red flags despite limited data on how humans absorb or metabolise the chemical. The EU opted for a precautionary approach, prioritising safety while further research continues.

Industry concerns and response

Some beauty professionals warn that the ban may cause economic harm to salon owners and small businesses, arguing that human health risks remain unproven at typical use levels.

At the same time, safety authorities stress the ban is a worst-case precaution, not an accusation of proven danger at realistic exposure levels.

What comes next?

• Salons must safely dispose of TPO gel products from September or risk penalties up to €22,000.

• Manufacturers are reformulating their products using safer photoinitiators like TPO-L or BAPO.

• Consumers concerned about potential risks—even if not firmly established—should opt for TPO-free gel polos or UV-protective methods, including keeping hands shielded during UV exposure.

  
  

Global ripple effects

Though not regulated in the U.S. yet, the EU ban may impact global supply chains and prompt wider reformulations.

The UK plans to follow suit with a similar ban expected in late 2026.

This move underscores the EU’s commitment to prioritising preventive health standards, even when evidence may be evolving. For now, salons, producers, and consumers will need to adapt—but safer alternatives are already emerging.