On the 1st of September 2025, trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), an ingredient in some gel nail polish, was banned by Norway, Switzerland, and all 27 EU member states.
Whilst TPO is currently still allowed to be used in the UK, British policymakers have suggested that the ingredient could be banned in 2026, following post-Brexit consultations.
What is TPO?
TPO is used in some gel nails to harden the liquid gel into a solid, shiny layer. These are called photoinitators. These ingredients cause the typical hardening effect you get when your manicure is ‘cured’ with a UV or LED lamp.
Why has the EU banned the product?
Studies have suggested that it may be associated with long-term fertility problems. This led to the EU classifying the ingredient as a CMR (carcinogen, mutagen, reprotoxic). It is because of this that the UK is considering also banning the use of TPO.
What should nail professionals do now this has been introduced?
Nail professionals using gel polishes are strongly recommended to check whether the products they are using contain TPO. Despite the concern, however, many UK manufacturers of gel nail polishes are already on top of TPO-free formulations.
On the possibility of a ban, Claire Aggarwal, CEO of BioSculpture offers the following advice: ‘Now that the EU has banned TPO, nail salons in the UK might be getting nervous about unexpectedly needing to purchase new products. To get ahead of the possible UK ban you may want to check with your nail manufacturer if their products are TPO free.
‘We recommend that you ask how they will manage the transition and if they can support you with any stock changes.’
The British Beauty Council, which advocates for safe and effective treatments across the beauty industry, firmly echoes these recommendations.
Click here to read more about TPO and a possible UK ban.
