Health
Gel Nail Polish Ban: What It Means for You
Health Points
- The European Union is banning gel polishes containing TPO starting September 2025.
- Experts say gel polish with TPO poses little risk with proper use.
- TPO-free alternatives are available for those who prefer them.
The EU has announced a ban on trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), a common ingredient in gel nail polish, set to begin in September 2025. This means salons and retailers in Europe must stop selling and using gel products with TPO.
While the ban affects Europe, TPO-containing gel polishes remain on the market in the United States, with no federal ban expected in the near future. Experts explain that regulatory approaches differ, with Europe acting on inherent hazards and the U.S. considering real-world usage risks.
TPO is a photoinitiator used to harden gel polish under UV or LED light, and it’s not typically found in other cosmetic items. Animal studies led the EU to act, but these studies involved very different exposure levels than users experience during manicures.
“The exposure conditions in these animal studies bear no resemblance to realistic exposure scenarios in cosmetic use,” said Doug Schoon.
Research suggests that only a tiny amount of TPO might reach the skin, and it’s further limited because it’s cured into a solid form on the nail. Currently, experts like Kelly Dobos, Doug Schoon, and Michelle Wong believe gel polishes with TPO pose minimal risk to fertility or overall health.
“I think it’s extremely safe and doesn’t need to be avoided,” adds Michelle Wong.
Those who wish to avoid TPO can choose from products that use alternative photoinitiators. While ingredient transparency can be limited, more brands are expected to highlight TPO-free options as regulations evolve.
If UV exposure from curing lights is a concern, consider applying a layer of broad-spectrum sunscreen before your manicure as recommended by dermatologists.
Curious to learn more? Explore further details at the source below.
