Don't Put Toxins on Your Nails... EU Bans This Ingredient in Gel Nail Polish

Testicular Abnormalities and Reduced Fertility Observed in Animal Studies
Some Experts Say "Current Usage Is Safe"

The European Union (EU) has banned the use of certain chemicals found in some gel nail polish and cosmetic products. This measure specifically targets trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), a substance that has been identified as a reproductive toxicant in animal testing.

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According to CNN on the 4th (local time), the European Commission announced that, starting this month, the use of TPO in cosmetics will be prohibited. This action follows the decision by European regulatory authorities to classify TPO as a "reproductive toxic substance."

TPO acts as a photoinitiator, enabling gel nail polish to cure under ultraviolet (UV) light. Some consumers prefer gel nail products over regular nail polish because they last longer, have a firmer texture, and dry more quickly.

This regulation does not ban gel nail polish itself, but applies only to products containing TPO. Doug Schoon, Chair of the Nail Manufacturers Council on Safety at the Professional Beauty Association in the United States, stated, "Some reports have exaggerated this as a 'gel nail polish ban,' but it is simply a regulation on a single ingredient, not a ban on the entire product category."

Under EU regulations, products containing TPO can no longer be sold, supplied, or used in Europe. Existing stock must be withdrawn from the market. Similar regulations are expected to take effect in the United Kingdom next year.

Testicular Abnormalities and Reduced Fertility Observed in Animal Testing... Some Say "Current Usage Is Safe"

Products containing TPO are primarily used in salons, as a UV lamp is required for the gel to cure, making home use limited. David Andrews, Deputy Director of the nonprofit Environmental Working Group, pointed out, "Exposure to TPO is a greater concern for salon workers and consumers who frequently receive professional gel polish services."

He continued, "The EU banned TPO for both home and occupational use due to concerns about reproductive toxicity observed in animal studies. Toxicological studies on animals showed testicular abnormalities and reduced fertility."

However, Kelly Dobos, a lecturer at the University of Cincinnati College of Pharmacy and a cosmetic chemist, explained that the studies on TPO involved oral administration to animals, stating, "The exposure route is different from when people receive gel manicures. The current method of use is very safe."

With concerns about TPO being raised, some brands have begun using alternative ingredients. Some already use different photoinitiators instead of TPO. Dobos advised, "Since it can be difficult to always check product labels in salons, you can ask directly or opt for regular nail polish."