DETROIT – Every glossy gel manicure starts with a flash of UV light and a little chemistry. But one ingredient that helps polish harden may pose health risks.
Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) has been banned by the European Union. While it remains legal in the United States, consumer awareness, manufacturer reformulation, and global supply chain shifts are expected to prompt changes in U.S. nail polish.
TPO is used to jumpstart the hardening process of nail polish under ultraviolet light. The primary concern comes from animal studies showing damage to reproductive health. Although these findings have not been proven in humans, the European Union tends to act on preliminary data more quickly than U.S. regulators, which explains the ban in Europe but not yet in the U.S.
Chemicals in nail polish matter because they can remain on the skin, be inhaled during filing, or be repeatedly handled by anyone applying them. Ongoing exposure to TPO can cause skin allergies and sensitization issues, in addition to the theoretical reproductive health concerns.
Now that TPO is banned across Europe, it remains to be seen if U.S. officials will follow suit. Regardless, a phase-out of TPO in global supply chains is likely over time.
The good news is that safer chemical alternatives to TPO exist. These alternatives have not shown harmful effects in animal studies, and nail polish manufacturers are expected to switch to these options.
For consumers and salon staff concerned about TPO, experts recommend asking about product ingredients, choosing TPO-free formulas, improving salon ventilation, wearing gloves during removal, and seeking medical advice for persistent skin or respiratory symptoms.