TPO Ban in the EU – What Nail Techs in the UK need to know .

As of 1st September, the European Union has banned the use of TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide) in cosmetic products, including gels and gel polishes. If you’ve been scrolling through nail forums or chatting with fellow techs, you’ve probably seen the confusion, worry, and even frustration surrounding this change 

Here in the UK, TPO is not banned - but because our market often follows EU regulations with a delay, it’s important for us as professionals to understand what’s happening and what it might mean for our salons and clients in the future.

Why has TPO been banned in the EU?

TPO is a photoinitiator — the ingredient that helps your gel set properly under UV or LED light, giving nails that glossy finish. It has been used in our industry for years without proven harm to humans.

The EU’s decision is based largely on animal testing results suggesting potential reproductive toxicity. However, here are some key objections raised by professionals across the beauty industry:

• No human evidence of danger
  There are no clinical or epidemiological studies showing TPO is harmful to humans at the levels used in nail products.

• Unequal treatment across sectors
  TPO is still allowed in dentistry, food packaging, and even 3D printing — but cosmetics alone are being targeted.

• Unfair market forces
  Salons are being asked to destroy products, while overseas online shops continue selling TPO products directly to EU consumers with little to no import control.

• Based on animal testing
  The ban relies on animal test data, despite Article 18 of the European Cosmetics Regulation stating that cosmetics shouldn’t be judged this way. Comparable human-use studies were ignored.

• Poor communication
  Information to professionals was late, unclear, and sometimes even incorrect, leaving salons unprepared.

• Disproportionate action
  A total ban is heavy-handed. Less drastic measures could have protected consumer safety without crippling small businesses.

• Economic impact
  SMEs in the beauty industry are facing devastating financial consequences - with losses estimated in the hundreds of millions across Europe.

What does this mean for UK techs?

Right now, you can continue to use and buy TPO-containing products here in the UK. But given the EU’s lead, we should anticipate that similar restrictions may arrive here within the next couple of years.

As educators and salon owners, it’s wise to:

• Stay informed on ingredient lists.

• Test and trial free of TPO alternatives so you’re prepared.

• Educate clients with calm, evidence-based information, reassuring them that no human harm has been proven.

The TPO ban feels disproportionate and frustrating, especially when our industry already works hard to maintain safety and compliance. For now, UK professionals are not directly impacted - but this is our chance to stay proactive, informed, and ready for change.

Remember: knowledge is power.  The more we understand, the better we can support both our businesses and our clients with confidence.

 

With nail love

Magda