Important update: EU bans popular gel polish ingredient

As of 1^st September 2025, Norway, Switzerland and all 27 EU member states have banned the use and sale of trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) which is a chemical that is commonly found in nail products. Therefore the use and sale of any products containing this chemical, must immediately cease in the EU, Norway and Switzerland.

UK TPO rules unchanged; ban expected in 2026

Following Brexit, the United Kingdom is no longer part of the EU. Therefore, the use and sale of products containing TPO for the UK has not changed and residents may continue to use them under current legislation. It is however expected that the UK will ban the use of this substance sometime in 2026.

Guidance for nail professionals on TPO-containing products

Nail professionals are advised to check their products for the presence of TPO. The information can be found on the product safety data sheets or on the product label. If in doubt, contact your product supplier for further information and clarification.

If you find that your products do contain TPO, we would recommend that you speak to your supplier and enquire what steps they are taking to prepare for the expected ban in the UK. Some suppliers may have already taken steps to remove this chemical.