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EU Bans TPO in Gel Nail Polishes, Forcing Switch to New Formulas

Salons across the bloc now face stock withdrawals under the EU safety measure, with the UK yet to impose a ban.

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With the EU banning TPO in gel nails, safer alternatives like nail stickers are gaining traction.
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Overview

  • The EU prohibition on the photoinitiator TPO in cosmetic products, including gel polishes, took effect on September 1, 2025 under Omnibus VII.
  • Regulators classified TPO as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction following animal studies, leading to precautionary restrictions.
  • Salons and retailers in the EU have been told to remove or replace existing TPO stock, with some reports citing fines up to €22,000 for non‑compliance.
  • Great Britain has not implemented a ban, and the UK cosmetics trade body CTPA expects any restriction in 2027, though other reports suggest late 2026.
  • Manufacturers are rolling out TPO‑free lines and alternative photoinitiators, as experts advise correct curing for home kits and note HEMA reactions are more common.