Overview
- The UK restriction, which came into force on August 15, stops manufacturers and importers from placing any new cosmetic products that contain trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) on the market.
- The rule is phased to limit disruption: distributors may sell existing TPO stock until February 14, 2027 and salons may continue to use bottles they already have until those supplies run out.
- TPO is a photoinitiator used to cure gel polishes under UV or LED lamps and it was reclassified as a Category 1B reproductive toxicant after animal studies showed reproductive harm at high exposures.
- Manufacturers and many high‑end salons have already moved to TPO‑free formulations and industry groups stress that gel manicures themselves are not banned.
- Trading Standards says suspected illegal products can be reported via the Citizens' Advice Consumer Helpline and the phased ban is likely to speed supply changes and stock rotation in salons and shops.