Liputan6.com, Jakarta The European Union (EU) has taken decisive action for consumer safety by imposing a ban on certain chemicals commonly found in gel nail polish.
This ban, which will take effect on September 1, 2025, does not ban all gel nail polish products, but rather targets potentially hazardous components.
The chemical in question is Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO), a photoinitiator that accelerates the drying of gel polish under UV or LED light.
TPO is classified as a CMR 1B substance, meaning it is potentially carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction.
This policy will have a significant impact on the beauty industry, particularly manufacturers and nail salons in the 27 EU member states and countries that have adopted EU regulations.
TPO Chemicals: Functions and Hazards
Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide, or TPO, is a key component in many modern gel polish formulations.
It acts as a photoinitiator, allowing the polish to harden quickly when exposed to UV or LED light, resulting in a strong, glossy finish.
TPO's efficiency in this process has made it a popular choice among manufacturers for years.
However, the European Union's classification of TPO as a CMR 1B substance is the primary basis for its ban.
This classification indicates that TPO has the potential to cause cancer, genetic mutations, or reproductive problems.
Although large-scale human studies are limited, animal studies have linked TPO to fertility issues and potential reproductive organ damage.
Furthermore, some experts have highlighted TPO's potential to disrupt the body's endocrine system and trigger allergic skin reactions.
Details of the Ban in Europe
As reported by The Independent, nail salons in any of the EU's 27 member states "must now stop selling TPO-based nail gels and safely dispose of all their current stock, while manufacturers must reformulate their products to be TPO-free."
The TPO ban applies across all 27 European Union member states, as well as several other countries that have adopted EU regulations, such as Norway and Switzerland.
Implementation of the ban will begin on September 1, 2025, marking the deadline for all parties to comply with the new regulations.
After that date, the sale and use of cosmetic products, including gel nail polish, containing TPO will be completely prohibited.
This rule applies not only to new products but also to stock already on the market before September 1, 2025.
Nail salons and distributors in the EU are required to immediately stop selling and using TPO-based gel polish and dispose of existing stock.
Violations of this regulation can result in significant fines, up to €22,000 per violation, demonstrating the EU's seriousness in enforcing this rule.
Doug Schoon, a scientific expert in the nail industry and founder of Schoon Scientific, told Scratch that the risks of TPO are reduced with proper application.
“The removal of TPO from nail products doesn’t necessarily impact their performance, but they will require reformulation," he said.
"When used improperly and skin contact is not avoided, TPO can cause skin sensitization or allergic reactions in some individuals. However, adverse effects are rare when products are applied correctly by trained professionals."
Global Impact and Safe Alternatives for You
Although the gel nail polish ban is centered in Europe, its impact could be felt globally. In the United States, for example, TPO is not currently banned or regulated.
However, companies operating in the EU and US markets may choose to reformulate all their products to be uniformly TPO-free.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom is expected to implement the TPO ban later, at the end of 2026.
For concerned consumers, many brands have begun offering TPO-free gel polish formulations, such as Manucurist, Aprés Nails, and OPI's Intelli-Gel system.
Looking for the "TPO-free" label can be an important guide.
In addition to choosing TPO-free products, there are several other preventative measures you can take to maintain healthy nails.
It is recommended to allow longer intervals between gel manicure sessions or to reserve gel manicures for special occasions only.
These approaches can help reduce potential chemical exposure and maintain long-term nail health.