Why Has The EU Banned Some Gel Nail Polishes, And Will It Happen In The UK?

Manicure

Starting from 1 September 2025, EU member states, as well as Norway and Switzerland, have banned all nail products containing trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide or TPO. 

This includes any leftover nail polish with TPO that salons may still have in stock. 

The UK is no longer a part of the EU, though Northern Ireland follows the same rules for goods and chemicals as the EU.

So, why have TPOs been banned, and will it happen in the rest of the UK?

Why have some gel polishes been banned in the EU?