EU bans key ingredient in gel polishes: the manicure industry is facing a major transformation
25 August 20:42
Starting from September 1, 2025, the European Union will ban the use of trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), one of the main substances in the production of gel polishes and acrylic nail coatings. This decision of the European Commission can dramatically change the work of the beauty industry. This was reported byKoSSev, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
The ban is enshrined in a new European Commission resolution supplementing the Cosmetics Regulation. From now on, salons, masters and manufacturers in all EU countries must completely abandon TPO in cosmetics. All leftover products with this substance are subject to mandatory disposal, regardless of the date of purchase.
Why is TPO banned?
TPO was used as a photoinitiator – it triggered the process of rapid curing of gel coatings under an ultraviolet or LED lamp. However, studies by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) have confirmed that the substance is hazardous to reproductive health. Scientific experiments on animals have documented the impact of TPO on fertility.
Experts believe that the ban is aimed at minimizing health risks to consumers and preventing allergic reactions that often occurred in nail technicians and clients of beauty salons after prolonged contact with this component.
How does the market react?
Despite the radical changes, the beauty industry has begun to actively look for safe alternatives. New photoinitiators are currently being developed, including TPO-L and Ivocerin, which can replace the banned component. At the same time, experts recognize that there is no perfect substitute yet, and manufacturers will have to adapt the formulation gradually.
However, experts predict that the market will respond quickly to the new conditions, as Europe has long been moving towards safer and more environmentally friendly cosmetics.
Context
At the same time, global beauty trends are increasingly focused on conscious consumption. The day before, the visual platform Pinterest released a report on fall 2025 trends, which states that Generation Z prefers vintage styles, individuality, and responsibility in choosing products. The TPO ban fits into this global trend.
