Logsday Analyzes Why The EU Banned TPO Nail Polish - What Consumers And Salons Need To Know

(MENAFN- EIN Presswire)

Why the EU Banned TPO: Science, Safety & What It Means for Nail Polish Lovers

EU bans TPO nail polish over safety concerns. LogsDay explains risks, safer alternatives, and what salons & consumers should do next.

Consumers deserve to know exactly what is in their nail products,” - Lara Singh, founder of Pure Nail Artistry, Mumbai

PUNE, MAHARASHTRA, INDIA, September 18, 2025 /EINPresswire / -- LogsDay , a renowned online publication, published a detailed report explaining why the EU banned TPO nail polish , what this means for nail polish lovers, salons, and global consumers, and what alternatives are now available. The ban on TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide) marks a significant change in cosmetic regulation across Europe, with strong implications for beauty industry safety, ingredient transparency, and consumer awareness.

BACKGROUND

TPO is a chemical ingredient used in gel nail polish. It helps nail gels harden under UV lamps, giving strength, gloss, and long wear. Salons appreciate it because it cures quickly and gives a professional finish. Consumers like it for durable, bright nail colour. However, the European Union has banned TPO in nail polish as of 2025. This is due to safety concerns. Studies showed that TPO could damage DNA in certain laboratory conditions. Under the EU's hazard-based regulatory approach, even possible harm in lab tests triggers a ban.

WHAT THE EU BAN MEANS

.All nail polishes that contain TPO cannot be sold in the EU anymore. Salons in EU countries must stop using TPO-based nail gels immediately.
.For shoppers, especially outside the EU, many products may still list TPO. Online stores may continue to ship TPO-containing polishes to non-EU regions. Consumers are urged to read ingredient labels carefully.
.The shift away from TPO forces beauty brands to reformulate gel nail polish products, invest in safety testing, and clearly label products. This supports demand for TPO-free gel nail polish, safer nail polish alternatives, HEMA-based nail gels, and hazard-free nail polish ingredients.

ALTERNATIVES AND SAFETY

Many beauty and cosmetic brands are adapting quickly. Two main paths are emerging:

nail gels: Many salons are switching to HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate)-based formulations. While HEMA also has some sensitization risk (allergies for sensitive users), it is widely accepted and better studied.

curing agents and TPO-free / HEMA-free blends: Some brands now label products explicitly as“TPO-free” or“safe curing agents” and are developing new light-curing systems with improved safety profiles. Hybrid nail polishes that are neither fully gel nor regular polish are also gaining in popularity.

Experts say that for most users, risk is low if the polish is used correctly and infrequently. The chemical sits on the nail plate, not deeply in the skin. Still, regulatory bodies prefer caution and preemptive action when lab evidence suggests possible harm.

QUOTES FROM INDUSTRY EXPERTS

“The ban on TPO nail polish in the EU is not an alarm bell, but a clear signal that cosmetic safety can no longer depend solely on usage patterns,” said Dr. Avril Mehta, a toxicologist and regulatory specialist at the European Institute for Cosmetic Safety.

“Consumers deserve to know exactly what is in their nail products. Terms like 'TPO-free' or 'HEMA-free' are becoming critical keywords for safety-conscious buyers,” added Lara Singh, cosmetologist and founder of Pure Nail Artistry, Mumbai.

“From a salon owner's view, reformulating products, training staff, and switching to safer alternatives is expensive-but necessary. Safety and trust must lead in this new era of nail polish regulation,” commented Julien Marchand, CEO of Lumière Beauty Supplies, Paris.

RISK VS REALITY

It is natural to worry when ingredients are banned. But experts point out:

.Lab tests found TPO can damage DNA under certain UV exposure in vitro (in labs), not under typical everyday use.
.No confirmed cases of cancer, infertility, or other serious health issues in humans due to TPO nail polish have been reported yet.
.For consumers outside the EU, products with TPO may still be available. But checking ingredient lists, choosing certified“TPO-free” nail polish, and limiting exposure can reduce risk.

WHAT CONSUMERS AND SALONS SHOULD DO NOW

.Look for TPO-free gel nail polish, safe nail polish alternatives, or non-TPO UV curing agents when buying.
.Ask your salon which products they use. If they still use TPO-based gel polishes, request alternatives or switch salons.
.For brands: invest in reformulation, label products clearly, and keep up with international regulatory changes.
.Stay informed about ingredient safety and changes in cosmetic laws, especially if importing nail products.

ABOUT LOGSDAY

LogsDay is a leading lifestyle and wellness publisher that delivers trending news, safety updates, and practical advice for consumers and businesses. Our aim is to share clear, reliable information on beauty, health, and regulation.

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KOYEL GHOSH
Founder & Researcher, LogsDay
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