Starting September, This Common Nail Polish Ingredient Will Be Officially Banned!

Back to school season often brings new beginnings and resolutions. This time, the European Commission is stepping up with a resolution of its own: to ban the sale of nail polishes containing a component deemed hazardous. This change is a significant step forward for consumer safety.

What makes this ingredient so harmful? The details might just send shivers down your spine. It’s categorized as a CMR substance of category 1B—meaning it is Carcinogenic, Mutagenic (i.e., it can alter DNA), and Reprotoxic (toxic for reproduction). Specifically, the use of triphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) in nail products is being banned primarily due to its reproductive toxicity. Toxicological studies have shown its harmful effects, leading European authorities to classify it under this dangerous category.

TPO is primarily found in gel polishes and hardening nail varnishes. Previously, its use was restricted to professional settings, and even then, it was allowed at a maximum concentration of 5%. So, what’s changing exactly? According to the Ministry of Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty’s website, from September 1, 2025, it will be illegal to sell, use, or even possess products containing TPO. This includes professional environments like nail salons and hairdressers. There will be no grace period allowed: existing stock must be disposed of immediately with no transition period.

This rule is part of the “Omnibus VII” European regulation, which aims to protect our wellness and regularly bans substances considered dangerous in cosmetics based on the latest scientific data. The General Directorate for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control advises professionals to start preparing now for this change.

At home, make sure to check the label of your nail polishes and other cosmetic products to see if they contain TPO. If they do, it’s best to throw them out to safeguard your health.