New TPO ban comes into force in all UK nail salons

The change follows new government regulations that prohibit the use of trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) in new cosmetic products due to health concerns.

TPO is a chemical compound used in many gel nail polishes to help them cure and harden under UV or LED light.

New TPO ban comes into force in all UK nail salons

The ban came into effect on Saturday (August 15) and means salons can no longer purchase or sell TPO-containing products.

However, they are allowed to use existing stock until February 14, 2027.

Caroline Rainsford, director of science at The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association, said: “The reason why TPO has been banned in cosmetic products in the EU is based on its hazardous properties, meaning how a substance might behave under a ‘worst case’ situation when our bodies are exposed to a very large amount.

“The amount of this ingredient used in nail products is over a thousand times less than the amount which could have any negative effect on fertility and these products are applied to the nail, so the potential for the ingredient to be absorbed into our bodies is even smaller.”

The UK government introduced the ban after determining there was ‘sufficient scientific evidence’ of a ‘potential risk to human health’.

TPO has raised particular concerns around reproductive health, with some studies suggesting it may affect fertility.

In the EU, the chemical will be banned from use in cosmetic products from September 1, 2025, under ‘extreme caution.’

Many manufacturers have already reformulated their gel nail products to exclude TPO while maintaining a high-gloss finish.

Richard Knight, Trading Standards Lead Officer for Cosmetics and Beauty, said: “Anyone who wishes to report any suspected illegal cosmetic product, including nail gels, can alert Trading Standards via the government-funded Citizens’ Advice Consumer Helpline.”

What do you think of the new ban? Let us know in the comments.