Nail Polish and Toxic Ingredients

A shiny manicure can make you feel polished and powerful — but what if that glossy finish hides risks beneath the surface? Many nail products, especially UV-cured gels, contain chemicals that help harden, stabilize, and protect the polish. Some of these ingredients, however, raise concerns for long-term health, particularly when it comes to the reproductive system. One chemical in the spotlight is TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide). Once widely used in nail gels, it has now been banned in the European Union. Here’s why.

Why these chemicals are used in nail polish

Modern nail polishes and gels are more than just pigments. To deliver durability, shine, and fast curing under UV light, manufacturers use substances called photoinitiators. TPO is one such ingredient. It helps gels harden quickly and evenly, making manicures last longer. From a performance point of view, it works brilliantly.

But performance is not the whole story. Research into TPO has linked it to toxic effects on reproduction, raising red flags for regulators, scientists, and health advocates.

The health risks: small doses, repeated exposure

The concern with TPO and similar substances is not about one-time exposure. Instead, the risk grows when there is frequent, repeated contact, even if the amounts per product seem small. Scientists warn that overtime, this accumulation may contribute to:

• Disruption of hormonal balance

• Negative impacts on fertility and reproductive health

• Long-term toxicity that builds silently in the body

And TPO is not the only chemical of concern. The so-called “toxic trio” — formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate (DBP) — has long been flagged for health risks, ranging from respiratory irritation to developmental toxicity. Together, these ingredients paint a worrying picture when exposure is regular, whether for consumers who love manicures or nail technicians who work with these products daily.

The EU ban: stronger rules for safer products

Europe has taken a clear stance. Under the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC No 1223/2009), substances that pose risks to human health are closely controlled. Following scientific evaluation, TPO was added to Annex II — the list of banned substances — meaning it can no longer be used in cosmetic products sold in the EU.

This move reflects a precautionary approach: if a chemical is shown to interfere with reproductive health, regulators step in to protect both consumers and professionals. Similar restrictions are under consideration for other problematic ingredients, as part of the EU’s broader effort to make cosmetics safer and more sustainable.

By contrast, in other regions such as the United States, some of these substances are still legally allowed. This creates uneven standards — but also an opportunity for European brands to lead with safer alternatives.

What this means for consumers

The good news: safer choices are emerging. Here’s what you can do:

• Read labels carefully: check for banned or high-risk ingredients.

• Choose EU-compliant brands: companies selling in Europe must follow strict safety rules.

• Limit frequency: occasional manicures are unlikely to pose major risks, but regular exposure increases concern.

• Be cautious with UV gels: ask salons about the products they use and whether they contain safer alternatives.

• Support transparency: reward brands that publish clear ingredient lists and safety information.

The bigger picture

Beauty should never come at the expense of health. The ban on TPO is a reminder that regulation matters — and that safer, higher-quality cosmetics are possible. For consumers, it’s a call to stay informed and make choices that protect long-term well-being. For manufacturers, it’s an incentive to innovate with alternatives that deliver shine and durability without hidden risks.

In the end, the best manicure is one that makes you feel confident — without compromising your health today or in the future.

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