Archive · 7 Sep 2025
EU Bans Gel Nail Polish Chemical Due to Health Risks
The European Union is stopping the use of a chemical called TPO, found in gel nail polish.
This is because studies suggest it could be harmful, potentially causing cancer or problems with reproduction.
The ban begins in September 2025, affecting nail salons and beauty businesses, which must switch to safer alternatives.
Experts say this is a precaution, even though the exact harm isn't fully proven.
The EU's decision might cause other countries to review their rules on cosmetic safety.
Companies are already making new gel nail polishes without TPO, so the beauty industry might change globally.
The EU banned TPO, a chemical used in gel nail polish.
The ban is due to health concerns, including potential carcinogenic and reproductive risks.
The regulation takes effect on September 1, 2025.
Nail salons and retailers must remove existing stock and use alternatives.
Safer alternatives are being developed and could influence global beauty standards.
- Who
- The European Union
- What
- Banned TPO, a chemical in gel nail polish
- When
- Effective September 1, 2025
- Where
- Across the European Union
- Why
- Due to potential health risks
- Chemical Banned
- Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO)
- Reason for Ban
- Potential health hazards (carcinogenic, mutagenic, reproductive toxicity)
- Ban Start Date
- September 1, 2025
- Regulation
- European Commission’s Omnibus VII Regulation
- Impacted Parties
- Nail salons, beauty technicians, retailers
- Potential Penalties
- Up to €22,000 per violation
- Safer Alternatives
- Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) and other low-toxicity photoinitiators