From 1 September 2025, the European Union will ban the ingredient TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide – CAS Number: 75980-60-8) in cosmetic products, including gel nail polish. Great Britain is expected to follow with a similar ban by 2027. ( However, a date isn’t firmly set or whether UK will actually ban it.)
This decision is based on the way TPO is classified under chemical safety laws as potentially harmful to reproduction in a “worst-case scenario.” It does not mean that current nail products containing TPO are unsafe. In fact, the amount of TPO used in gel polish is extremely low — thousands of times lower than the level that could affect fertility — and applied only to nails, limiting any possible exposure.
For years, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) and independent safety assessors have confirmed that TPO, when used in cosmetics, is safe. However, under the EU’s CLP Regulation (Classification, Labelling and Packaging), manufacturers would have needed to provide additional proof and data to continue using it. Instead of pursuing an exemption, the cosmetics industry has chosen to reformulate with alternative ingredients.
What Does This Mean for Salons?
From September 2025, any gel polish containing TPO cannot be legally sold or used in the EU.
Nail professionals and salon owners will need to ensure that all their products are TPO-free and EU-compliant.
Products currently on the market with TPO remain safe and legal until the ban comes into effect.
Cosmetic Safety Regulations Remain Strong
All cosmetic products in the UK and EU must undergo strict safety assessments by qualified professionals before being sold. These reviews consider every ingredient, how the product is applied, and how often it will be used — both in salons and at home. Only when a product meets all legal safety requirements can it be placed on the market.
Choosing TPO-Free Gel Polish Today
The upcoming ban is driving a shift to TPO-free formulas, giving nail techs and salon owners the chance to switch early to safer, future-proof options.
At Bold Berry, we provide a wide range of TPO-free, EU-compliant gel polish collections. Our products deliver rich pigmentation, long-lasting wear, and easy removal — all while keeping your salon ready for the future of EU regulations.
