Chemical found in gel nail polish banned in Europe

(NewsNation) — The European Union has banned a key ingredient found in gel nail polish.

Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide, or TPO, is now forbidden in beauty products after EU officials said it could be potentially toxic to humans.

As of Sept. 1, nail salons within the EU must cease selling TPO-based nail products and safely dispose of their existing stock, while manufacturers must begin producing TPO-free products.

The chemical gives nails a glossy sheen and accelerates drying time when exposed to ultraviolet or LED light. In 2014, a study linked TPO to long-term fertility damage and skin irritation.

Another study looked into the UV dryers used to set gel polishes and found they pose a cancer risk and can damage DNA.

TPO remains unregulated in the United States, but those conc