A new regulatory update across Great Britain has now banned the use of trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) in cosmetic products, including nail gels. As of Saturday, August 15, 2026, suppliers and producers are no longer allowed to introduce newly made products containing this ingredient into England, Scotland, or Wales.
The updated policy is based on a new health and safety rating. Studies on animals have linked high consumption of the chemical to issues with reproduction and fertility. While regular exposure is considered low risk for users, the new classification is beginning a slow phase-out for health reasons.
What is TPO and why is it banned?
TPO, which stands for trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide, is a chemical photoinitiator used in gel nail polish. It captures light from UV or LED lamps to start a hardening reaction, transforming the liquid polish into a solid, shiny layer. It accelerates the curing process when exposed to UV and LED lights, ensures that deep or dark colours, such as pure whites and blacks, cure uniformly, and helps prevent the top coat from yellowing over time.
This substance is categorised as a CMR 1B under CLP regulations. By default, substances in this category are not allowed. Under the EU Cosmetics Regulation, the chemical was prohibited across the European Union as of September 1, 2025. Following that cutoff, European salons adopted safe alternative formulations and disposed of their outdated supplies. Now, the UK has followed suit.
What the ban means for salons and clients
Even with this fresh restriction, getting a gel manicure remains completely legal; the rule only prevents the introduction of new formulations made with the ingredient. This ban focuses on the chemical ingredient itself rather than salon appointments. Clients are still free to book gel manicures, and beauty establishments are not being forced to issue urgent product recalls for products already on their shelves.
According to official sector advice, UK beauty professionals can finish using their lawfully obtained TPO products on clients until they are all gone. This regulatory guidance was shared by the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA) along with Trading Standards.
Phased timeline for the phase-out
To assist companies with inventory management, authorities have outlined a phased timeline. After the first cutoff for new production in August 2026, a subsequent milestone takes effect in February 2027. Distributors and merchants have until February 14, 2027, to distribute or sell off remaining TPO-based stock. This cutoff marks the absolute end of the transition window for distributing any leftover items with the ingredient.
This grace period gives suppliers and technicians the chance to deplete their current inventory while transitioning to compliant, TPO-free options as they become available. After February 15, 2027, cosmetics that contain TPO will be banned from sale or supply across England, Scotland, and Wales. You won't be able to purchase or obtain any new TPO stock from suppliers after that date.
