What is TPO?

TPO is a photoinitiator that hardens the liquid gel into a solid, shiny layer. That’s what causes the typical hardening effect you get when your manicure is ‘cured’ with a UV or LED lamp.

Data from the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has suggested that TPO may be associated with long-term fertility problems. This led to the EU classifying it as a CMR (carcinogen, mutagen, reprotoxic), prompting last year’s ban. Persistent health concerns arising from repeated exposure have now led to the UK exercising the same option.

What does this mean for nail professionals and consumers?

The good news is that following the EU ban last year, many brands and manufacturers began reformulating their products.

As founder Michael Henson from professional nail care brand HONA explains “our gel system was already formulated without TPO ahead of the Great Britain deadline, so our customers and distribution partners face no last-minute reformulation, stock-clearance exercise or disruption to supply.”

Indeed, reputable brands have been working hard behind the scenes, innovating their nail products to create formulas that deliver durability, high-shine finishes and long-lasting wear. UK luxury nail salon brand, Townhouse, for example, has worked in close partnership with leading manufacturers and chemists to move beyond traditional ingredients towards more advanced, refined formulations. “We’ve invested heavily in developing TPO-free systems that meet our standards without compromise so that clients never have to choose between exceptional results and peace of mind” says Townhouse’s Founder and Creative Director, Juanita Huber-Millet.

This means that as the phased UK ban gets under way, an increasingly wide range of options is available to customers. Nail professionals can also continue to use any existing stock until the second stage of the ban takes effect in February 2027.

As a final piece of advice to those working in the sector, Michael advises nail technicians to “check their ingredient lists and seek written confirmation from suppliers”. With increased consumer demand for transparency, safety and proficiency of beauty professionals and the products used, staying proactive isn’t just a matter of regulatory compliance, it’s a vital opportunity to build client trust, demonstrate professional integrity, and lead the way toward a safer, higher-standard beauty industry.