From Saturday, August 15, 2026, manufacturers and importers in Great Britain will be prohibited from placing new cosmetic products containing trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) on the market. This includes nail gels, as part of a new safety measure.
What the Ban Means
The ban targets the raw ingredient, not the service. Gel manicures remain legal, and salons can continue using existing stock. TPO is a photoinitiator that cures gel polish under UV or LED lamps.
The restriction follows a new safety classification. Animal studies linked high-dose ingestion to reproductive toxicity and potential fertility issues. While consumer exposure risk is low, the phase-out aims to ensure long-term public safety.
Industry Guidance
According to the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA), nail technicians may legally use existing TPO stock until it runs out. This guidance aligns with Trading Standards.
The EU banned TPO in cosmetics on September 1, 2025, prompting EU salons to switch to compliant formulas. Many professional brands have already moved to TPO-free alternatives.
Timeline
Businesses have a clear transition period. After the initial August 2026 deadline for new products, a second key date follows in February 2027.
