In September 2025, the European Union (EU) banned certain gel nail polishes after safety concerns over an ingredient called TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide). Animal studies have linked TPO to cancer and fertility issues, and European regulators acted quickly to protect consumers.
But in the United States, gel polishes containing TPO remain legal and widely available. This difference highlights two very different regulatory philosophies: Europe’s precautionary principle versus America’s proof-before-action model.
What Is TPO in Gel Nail Polish?
TPO is a photoinitiator, an ingredient that helps gel polish harden under UV or LED lamps. Without it, gel manicures wouldn’t last as long or set properly.
The problem? Studies on animals show that TPO may:
- Increase the risk of cancer
- Cause fertility and reproductive harm
While there isn’t yet conclusive human data, the risks were enough for the EU to remove it from the market.
Why Did Europe Ban Gel Nail Polish?
Europe follows the precautionary principle. That means if there’s credible evidence that a substance might cause harm, regulators act to protect consumers.
In this case, the EU:
- Classified TPO as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction
- Required salons and retailers to pull TPO-containing products immediately
- Took a “better safe than sorry” approach to consumer safety
This philosophy isn’t unique to nail polish — Europe has long banned additives, chemicals, and preservatives that are still legal in the U.S.
Why Didn’t the U.S. Ban Gel Nail Polish?
The United States takes a different approach. Regulatory agencies like the FDA typically require conclusive human evidence before banning a product.
That’s why:
Products with TPO are still available in American salons
No warnings are required for consumers
Many people in the U.S. don’t even know what TPO is
This system prioritizes business continuity and scientific certainty, but often delays consumer protection.
A Bigger Pattern: Europe vs. U.S. Regulation
The gel nail polish ban is just one example of a larger divide.
Food safety: Certain dyes and preservatives are banned in Europe but remain in U.S. foods.
Packaging: Plastics containing BPA are restricted in Europe, but still used here.
Cosmetics: Ingredients like parabens and formaldehyde releasers face stricter limits in Europe.
The key difference?
Europe = Precaution first
U.S. = Proof first
Why Consumers Should Care
Even if you love gel manicures, it’s important to remember legal doesn’t always mean safe.
Here’s how you can protect yourself:
Ask your salon: “Does this gel polish contain TPO?”
Choose safer brands: Look for TPO-free alternatives.
Limit UV exposure: Use sunscreen or UV gloves during manicures.
Stay informed: What’s banned in Europe today may be a warning sign for the U.S. tomorrow.
Legal and Safety Implications
From a legal perspective, this raises big questions:
- Could U.S. consumers eventually file lawsuits if TPO is proven harmful?
- Should manufacturers be required to warn about chemicals already banned in other countries?
- Will regulators eventually restrict TPO, forcing salons to adapt?
This isn’t the first time American regulations have lagged behind Europe — and it likely won’t be the last.
The EU’s decision to ban gel nail polish shows its commitment to precautionary consumer safety. The U.S., by contrast, continues to allow TPO until stronger human evidence emerges.
That’s why, for now:
Europe says: If there’s risk, ban it.
U.S. says: Wait for proof.
If you’re in the U.S., protect yourself by staying informed, asking the right questions, and making safer choices at the salon.
