The European Union has prohibited the use of a chemical often found in gel nail polishes — TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide).
Gel nail polish is favored over traditional polish by some due to its glossy finish and durability. It’s applied in layers and cured under UV light. TPO is the compound that speeds up drying and provides the polish’s coveted shine.
Animal studies have shown that TPO can harm fertility after long-term exposure. While no harmful effects have been proven in humans, experts view the ban as a precautionary measure.
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According to the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA), salon owners must stop using polishes containing TPO from September 1 and properly dispose of any current inventory. They must also ensure future supplies are free of the banned substance.
Manufacturers are obliged to reformulate their gel polishes without TPO.
Meanwhile, TPO remains legal in the US, following a pattern seen with other food additives and chemicals that the EU has previously banned, as reported by The Independent.
