UK Bans Chemical in Gel Nail Products Over Reproductive Health Fears
The United Kingdom has started to restrict a chemical used in some gel nail products, following concerns about its impact on reproductive health.
The chemical, Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO), is used in gel nail polish to help it harden when exposed to UV or LED curing lamps. In the UK, restrictions on cosmetic products containing TPO will be introduced on 15 August 2026.
The new regulations mean that cosmetic products containing TPO are no longer available for sale in the UK by manufacturers and importers. Existing stock can be used in nail salons until 14 February 2027, after which products containing the chemical will be removed.
The move comes after the European Union designated TPO as a substance of concern due to its potential reproductive toxicity.
Not all people exposed to TPO will have reproductive health issues. Instead, the worry is related to the hazardous characteristics and possible risks of the chemical, especially at higher exposure levels.
The development may not only affect the UK and EU, but also other nations that import professional nail products from overseas manufacturers like Kenya.
Those who get gel manicures regularly might therefore want to look at the ingredients on the product and inquire with salons if TPO is used in their products.
Alternatives are already being developed by manufacturers, such as TPO-L and BAPO, which can offer comparable curing performance.
The UK restrictions do not constitute a ban on gel manicures. Rather, they focus on cosmetics that include TPO, since regulators are looking to minimize any potential reproductive health risks from the chemical.
