Ever since semi-permanent nail polishes and gels began to be used, they have never been free of controversy. Although their use revolutionized the way manicures were done, behind their resistance and finish lay ingredients toxic to the human body that have ended up being banned in the European Union due to their health risks.
In this article, we tell you what these substances are, why they have been banned, and how this measure positively affects both consumers and nail technicians.
Which components have been banned?
First of all, it's important to know the restricted components. These substances are trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (commonly known as TPO) and dimethyl-p-toluidine (DMTA).
Until now, both ingredients were present in most semi-permanent nail polishes and gels, but after several scientific studies demonstrating that they could be harmful to health with continuous exposure, the European Union has decided to ban them to protect both people who use them occasionally and workers who use them daily.
The measure, approved last May, came into force on the first day of September, and since that date, no item containing these components can be sold or marketed within European territory. Additionally, people have been advised to check the labels of the polishes they have at home and stop using them if they include these substances.
What are TPO and DMTA?
To understand the importance of this measure, it is important to understand the role these substances played:
- TPO: is a photoinitiator compound, meaning a substance that, when exposed to the ultraviolet (UV or LED) light from manicure lamps, initiates a polymerization reaction. Thanks to this reaction, the liquid polish becomes solid and resistant, providing that characteristic glossy finish of semi-permanent manicures.
- DMTA: is a compound that acts as a conditioner and works differently from TPO. It is used to accelerate polymerization, that is, to help products harden and set correctly. Constant inhalation can lead to poisoning.
These components were essential for the polishes and gels used for semi-permanent manicures, as without them, they would not harden or work in the way they have until now.
Why is the European Union banning them?
The decision to ban both ingredients is due to their harmful effects on the body from prolonged use. The European Chemicals Agency already mentioned both compounds three years ago in a list of chemicals it intended to ban in cosmetics.
According to studies and reports, both substances have been classified as CMR, meaning "carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction." Furthermore, it has been shown that they can affect the hormonal system, cause kidney or liver damage, cause infertility, and even cause genetic mutations.
These components are also endocrine disruptors, substances capable of altering the body's hormonal system. Some of the problems that can result from the permanent use of these substances include diabetes, obesity, and even cancer.
When does the ban come into effect?
The measure began to be applied this September and is included in EU Regulation 2025/877, which regulates the use of cosmetic products with components that could cause cancer, mutations, or other problems.
All cosmetic products containing these two compounds must be withdrawn from circulation and points of sale in the European Union and stopped being used in beauty and aesthetic salons.
This represents a big step in banning harmful substances present in cosmetic products. There is increasing awareness among professionals and individuals who use – mostly out of ignorance – cosmetic products with toxic ingredients, as daily exposure to them can have serious health consequences. Furthermore, the use of several harmful compounds at once causes the so-called "cocktail effect," which collectively has much worse repercussions.
The ban on these substances leads to greater safety for people who used these types of polishes and for manicure professionals in salons who work with these products.
Problems arising from chronic exposure to these substances are not always visible in the short term. If you have used any product containing these substances, we recommend that you remove them as a precaution and start using natural cosmetics that are respectful of the body.
What conclusion can be drawn from this measure?
The ban on TPO and DMTA is a reminder that regulation is slowly but surely moving towards greater health protection. The ingredients used daily in common products such as cosmetics are being reviewed with increasing rigor, and in many cases, those that are harmful are questioned, replaced, or directly prohibited.
It is very important to clearly understand the importance of informing oneself beforehand, reading labels, and choosing consciously. There are always healthy alternatives that respect the body and are effective in their work.
At Banbu, we believe that using your favorite cosmetic products should not pose risks to your health or the planet. We celebrate measures like this because they pave the way for more conscious and safe cosmetics for everyone.
