The European Union has prohibited the use of trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) in gel nail polishes and other cosmetic products due to it
The European Union has prohibited the use of trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) in gel nail polishes and other cosmetic products due to its classification as a reproductive toxicant.
TPO is a photoinitiator that helps gel nail polish set under ultraviolet (UV) light.
This chemical has been associated with testicular abnormalities and reduced fertility in animal studies.
The Risks
Exposure to TPO is a greater concern for salon workers and frequent users of professional gel nail polish.
According to David Andrews, acting chief science officer at the Environmental Working Group, “The EU has banned the use of TPO both at home and professionally due to reproductive toxicity concerns identified in animal studies.”
While it’s essential to note that these studies were conducted on animals, and the exposure route differs from human application, experts still recommend caution.
What This Means for Consumers
The ban on TPO-containing products doesn’t mean gel polish itself is prohibited. Instead, it’s a regulatory restriction on a single ingredient. Consumers can still access gel polish products formulated with approved alternatives.
Cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos suggests asking salons about the products they use or opting for traditional nail polish, which has a long history of safe use.
Impact On US Market
In contrast to the EU, TPO remains in cosmetic products in the United States.
Dobos doesn’t foresee the FDA banning the ingredient at the federal level but notes that state-level ingredient bans have been increasing in recent years.
For instance, California banned 26 chemicals used in cosmetics in 2023.
While some manufacturers may start removing TPO from their products, it’s unlikely the FDA will ban the chemical soon.
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