EU BANS GEL NAIL POLISHES OVER TOXIC CHEMICAL LINKED TO FERTILITY ISSUES

A new ban from the European Union will make many gel nail polishes illegal to sell. The ban which takes effect on September 1, targets a chemical called TPO over fears it may cause harm to women fertility.

TPO, short for Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide, is used in many gel polishes. Its job is to react under UV light to make the wet gel harden quickly and firmly. However, the EU has now officially labeled TPO as toxic for reproduction, meaning it can no longer be used in cosmetics.

After announcing the decision in May, the EU gave nail polish makers a few months to remove TPO from their products and find safer substitutes. This move is part of the EU’s effort to strengthen cosmetic safety rules, prioritising public health.