New UK Cosmetics Regulations Enforce TPO Ban from August 15
From August 15, 2026, manufacturers and importers in the UK will no longer be permitted to place new batches of products containing Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) onto the market. This change is part of broader updates to UK cosmetics regulations coming into effect in July and August 2026, which also include other ingredient bans and restrictions affecting professional nail and beauty products.
The ban follows the European Union's decision to classify TPO as a CMR Category 1B substance, meaning it may be harmful to health with high exposure. Although risks in everyday nail use are considered low, the EU adopted a precautionary, hazard-based approach, prohibiting the sale, supply, or use of any cosmetic product containing TPO. The UK is now enforcing similar measures.
Public Reaction: 'About Time Too'
On the BirminghamLive Facebook page, many customers expressed relief. Alison Matthews commented: "About time too! My health has been affected by gel nails with nail loss, allergies and psoriasis. When I researched what chemicals are in gels I was horrified!" Others noted that many professional salons already avoid TPO. Hannah Clarke said: "Literally all products used in professional salons don't contain TPO anyway... It's not a 'gel nail ban'." Jayne Wilson added: "It’s the dentistry acrylic they need to ban too don’t know how salons have got away with it for so long."
Expert Advice: No Need for Panic
Danielle Louise, beauty expert at Fresha, reassured consumers: "If you regularly get gel nails, there's no reason to cancel your appointments or worry that something has suddenly become unsafe. The vast majority of professional salons use trusted brands that keep up to date with cosmetic regulations, and many manufacturers have already introduced reformulated products well ahead of the deadline." She added that such regulatory updates are common as science evolves.
Impact on Salons and Professionals
Salon owners, nail technicians, and beauty professionals are advised to check with their suppliers to ensure products remain compliant. TPO has been widely used in gel products to cure quickly and evenly under UV/LED lamps, but studies have indicated potential risks with prolonged or high-level exposure, prompting regulators to restrict its use. The ban applies to new batches placed on the market from August 15; existing stock may still be sold until depleted, but professionals should transition to TPO-free alternatives.
