The UK has confirmed a ban on TPO, a chemical used to help gel nail polishes cure under UV and LED lamps, citing potential reproductive health risks.
Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide, or TPO, is a photoinitiator found in many gel systems.
It was reclassified as a Category 1B reproductive toxicant under UK and EU rules, which triggers an automatic ban in cosmetics.Under new rules for Great Britain, manufacturers and importers must stop placing TPO-containing products on the market from 15 August 2026.
A grace period then follows for shops and salons.The final deadline is 14 February 2027.
From that date, distributors and retailers can no longer sell or supply existing TPO stock, and salons can no longer buy new TPO products.
Salons may use up stock they already purchased before then.Regulators stress the move is precautionary.
Industry body CTPA says the risk assessment is based on high-dose animal studies, and the tiny amounts used in nails are unlikely to cause harm in normal use.
Most major brands including CND and The GelBottle have already reformulated to TPO-free versions ahead of the deadline.
Experts say gel manicures are not banned, only formulas with TPO,technicians are being urged to check labels and switch now to avoid disruption next year.
