The European Union has enacted a ban on TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide), a chemical commonly used in gel nail polish. TPO is responsible for giving gel polish its glossy shine and allowing it to dry quickly under UV light. The ban is considered a precautionary measure after animal trials suggested the chemical could cause fertility …
EU Bans TPO, a Chemical Found in Gel Nail Polish
The European Union has enacted a ban on TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide), a chemical commonly used in gel nail polish. TPO is responsible for giving gel polish its glossy shine and allowing it to dry quickly under UV light. The ban is considered a precautionary measure after animal trials suggested the chemical could cause fertility damage with prolonged ingestion.
What the Ban Means for Salons and Manufacturers
According to the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA), starting September 1, salon owners in the EU must stop using any gel polish containing TPO and safely dispose of their existing stock. They are also required to ensure all future stock is TPO-free. Manufacturers must also reformulate their products to comply with the new regulation.
Different Standards: EU vs. US
While the ban is now in effect across the EU, the chemical remains legal in the US. This is not the first time the EU has banned a chemical or food additive that continues to be allowed in the United States, highlighting a difference in regulatory approaches.
