Overview

• TPO-containing cosmetics were prohibited across the EU as of September 1, requiring existing stock to be withdrawn and blocking new sales or use.
• The restriction targets a single photoinitiator rather than gel polish as a category, and manufacturers are rolling out TPO-free reformulations.
• The classification rests largely on animal data showing testicular abnormalities and reduced fertility, with no human exposure studies to date.
• Salons report testing replacements and preparing to discard inventory, with some owners warning of potential price increases to cover costs.
• Regulatory approaches now diverge, with the UK signaling possible future limits and the U.S. allowing TPO as experts expect any action to come at the state level rather than from the FDA.