European Union bans key ingredient in gel nail polish
The European Union banned TPO in gel nail polish due to its classification as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction, requiring reformulation and disposal of existing stock by September 1, 2025.
- The European Union has banned a key chemical used in many gel nail polishes called trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide .
- The EU believes TPO is potentially toxic and linked to fertility and reproductive issues based on animal studies.
- While TPO remains unregulated in the US, some are concerned about its long-term effects on human health.
104 Articles
104 Articles
On Monday, the European Union vetoed two chemicals commonly used in semi-permanent nail polishes. These are diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) and Dimethyl-p-toluidine (DMTA), most commonly used in gel-like enamels. The European Union included them in a list containing carcinogenic, mutagenic and toxic reproductive products (CMR).

Is Your Gel Manicure Safe? The Debate Over Banned Nail Polish
Source: Kanawa_Studio / Getty In a landmark decision, the European Union has banned trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), a chemical commonly used in gel nail polishes, effective September 1, 2025. This move stems from safety concerns highlighted by animal studies, which linked TPO to potential reproductive risks. However, experts argue that these studies involved high-dose exposures that differ significantly from real-world cosmetic u…
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