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The latest controversy in the nail industry is TPO a chemical ingredient found in some hard gels, builder gels, base and top coats. Lets get into what it is, why the ban and how it might effect nail techs. The main point I want to highlight is Don't Panic! There's a lot of scaremongering going on, read on to find out the actual facts.
Understanding Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide
Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide, also known as TPO, is a key component in many gel nail products. It is a photoinitiator, meaning it helps the gel polish cure and harden when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) or LED light during the application process. This ingredient plays an important role in achieving that flawless, chip-resistant finish that gel nails are admired for.
The ban on Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide is due September 2025, for the EU. Although it doesn't yet include the UK it is expected the ban will follow here closely afterwards.
After a German study in 2020 TPO was found to cause adverse effects on sexual function and fertility. BUT you should keep reading, to see why you don't need to worry.
Why you shouldn't panic
TPO is not just found in nail products, its also used in the dental industry. So the ban isn't solely targeted at the nail products and the effects on clients.
The testing done was on rats over a period of 10 days, where they ingested relatively large amounts daily. Obviously we don't eat the gel and the amount currently allowed in gel nail products is only 5% or less.
This is more of an issue for the nail companies and manufacturers to worry about.
Implications for the nail industry.
For Nail Technicians:
Professional Practices: Carry on as normal! The levels of TPO to actually affect fertility would have to be very high. Don't worry! The nail brands and product manufacturers have been well aware of this, for quite sometime, they will all be working on reformulating their effected products.
Use professional products: Its yet another reminder that you should be using professional nail products, that carry Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and these should be readily available and accessible from the brand.
Training and Education: Continued education on product safety and regulatory changes is essential for nail professionals to deliver high-quality services while prioritizing the health and safety of their clients. So always do your own research, and rely on trusted sources. Then if by chance a client was to ask, you can inform them with confidence.
For Nail Brands and Manufacturers
Reformulation: Most brands will be reformulating their products to remove TPO ready for September 2025. Although this is a widely used ingredient thats been used in gel products for 15 years, manufacturers have known about this for sometime. So will already be sourcing alternatives and testing new formulas so they know their products will still have the same adhesion and wear time.
Transparency: Reputable brands will probably already have issued statements explaining this to their customers. If you have any questions don't be afraid to ask the brands directly, I find Facebook brand groups a great place to do this. As a nail tech you are their consumer, they should be more than happy to talk to you and answer questions.
Even though the ban is currently for the EU with nail brands selling far and wide, most will be making the necessary changes and follow the EU directives. This isn't a new thing chemical ingredients do get banned from time to time, often because only of potential risks. But it is better to be safe than sorry.
Carry on as usual, you don't need to start rebranding or chucking away products. Be responsible and don't get sucked in to the scarmongoring that happens online.
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