The U.K. has banned new gel polishes containing TPO, which are hazardous to health
In the United Kingdom, new regulations have taken effect regarding the use of trimethylbenzoyldiphenylphosphine oxide (TPO)—an ingredient that helps gel nail polish cure under ultraviolet light.
The new rules prohibit manufacturers from selling new cosmetic products containing TPO. At the same time, a transition period has been provided for salons.
British nail technicians may still use their existing stock of gel polishes containing TPO, but they will no longer be able to purchase new products containing this ingredient.
Salons must completely stop using such products by February 14, 2027.
Meanwhile, in the European Union, TPO has been banned in cosmetic products effective September 1, 2025. According to the publication, products containing this ingredient may still be used in the U.S., Australia, and a number of Asian countries.
The decision to restrict the use of TPO is based on studies indicating a potential link between the substance and long-term fertility issues and reproductive problems.
Caroline Rainsford, Chief Science Officer of the Cosmetics, Toiletries, and Fragrances Association (CTPA), noted that in the EU, the ban is based on the substance’s hazardous properties and an assessment of its potential impact under conditions of significant exposure.
At the same time, she emphasized that the use of TPO in nail care products differs from such conditions.
According to her, the concentration of the ingredient in nail products is more than a thousand times lower than the level that could negatively affect fertility. Furthermore, gel polish is applied directly to the nail plate, which, she said, reduces the likelihood of the substance entering the body.
There is no complete ban on gel manicures in the United Kingdom.
TPO is found only in some gel polishes and is not used in traditional air-drying polishes.
TPO-free gel polishes are already available on the market, so once the transition period ends, salons will be able to continue offering gel manicure services using alternative products.
At the same time, experts note that while various alternative substances may belong to the same chemical group, individual compounds have different characteristics and safety ratings.
This was reported by The Independent.
Earlier, the UK temporarily banned the sale of disposable barbecues in stores and online nationwide. Authorities took this step due to concerns that they could cause wildfires and pose a danger during prolonged heat waves and droughts.
