The European Union’s sudden ban on a key ingredient in gel nail polish exposes the growing divide in global regulatory approaches.

Story Snapshot

• The EU bans Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO), a common gel polish chemical, citing reproductive risks.
• Ban takes effect September 1, 2025, with no grace period for nail salons or distributors.
• U.S. regulators allow TPO use, highlighting stark differences in chemical safety policy.
• Industry scrambles to reformulate products, while scientific evidence remains based on animal studies.

EU Ban Targets Popular Gel Nail Polish Ingredient Over Precautionary Health Concerns

On September 1, 2025, the European Union enforced a full ban on Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO), a photoinitiator chemical crucial to the glossy, long-lasting finish of gel manicures. This regulatory move, rooted in animal research linking TPO to fertility and reproductive toxicity, applies immediately to all marketing, sale, and professional use of TPO-containing products. Unlike past ingredient restrictions, the EU provided no transition period, compelling nail salons and distributors to remove existing stock without delay. The ban’s rationale reflects the EU’s strict application of the precautionary principle, acting on theoretical risks before definitive human evidence emerges.

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Gel manicures have surged in popularity for their durability and shine, relying on photoinitiators like TPO that cure polish under UV/LED lamps. Historically, TPO was permitted only in professional products at concentrations up to 5%. The EU’s regulatory framework mandates automatic bans for substances classified as Category 1B CMR—those deemed carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction. This reclassification followed recent scientific scrutiny, with animal studies suggesting possible fertility and reproductive harm but lacking direct human evidence. The approach mirrors previous EU actions against parabens and formaldehyde, reinforcing its reputation for aggressive cosmetic regulation.

The EU has banned a key ingredient found in many gel nail polishes.

The ingredient, trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide, helps gel and hybrid polishes harden under UV light. It remains allowed in the United States. https://t.co/1g43rWOy3W pic.twitter.com/Y3tjW7QNL6

— ABC News (@ABC) September 3, 2025

Industry and Consumer Fallout: Immediate Disruption and Search for Alternatives

Nail salons and technicians across Europe were forced to swiftly dispose of TPO-based products, prompting confusion and frustration among professionals and customers. Cosmetic manufacturers responded by accelerating reformulation efforts, introducing alternative photoinitiators such as TPO-L, BAPO, and methyl benzoylformate to comply with new standards. The abruptness of the ban has resulted in economic burdens, as businesses must discard inventory and invest in new supplies—costs that could ultimately affect service prices.

The regulatory divergence between Europe and the United States is stark. While the EU enforces strict controls and immediate compliance, U.S. authorities continue to allow TPO in gel polishes, relying on market-driven oversight and less intervention. This split underscores broader differences in risk tolerance and consumer protection, as American salons and manufacturers operate under less restrictive rules. The UK is expected to follow the EU’s lead with a similar ban in 2026, signaling potential ripple effects for global markets.

Scientific Uncertainty and Calls for Cautious Progress

As manufacturers adapt and scientific inquiry continues, the TPO ban stands as a landmark example of precaution-driven regulation. It demonstrates how evolving evidence and consumer safety concerns can rapidly reshape industry practices, with consequences for professionals, manufacturers, and end users. The situation also raises critical questions for U.S. policymakers and conservative audiences: Should American regulators adopt similar precautionary measures, or does the EU’s approach represent excessive government overreach with questionable scientific basis? The answer will shape future debates over chemical safety, personal choice, and regulatory authority.

Sources:

Europe bans gel nail polish chemical
Why gel nail polish is now banned in Europe but not the US
European Union bans key ingredient in gel nail polish
TPO in nail products: questions and answers
European Union bans key ingredient in gel nail polish