Nail styling without carcinogenic substances. GIS warns and reminds
Starting September 1st, beauty salons will be prohibited from using products containing TPO – a previously popular photoinitiator in hybrid nail polishes and gels. The substance has been classified by the European Chemicals Agency as carcinogenic and toxic to reproduction. The Chief Sanitary Inspectorate emphasizes that these changes are necessary for the safety of clients.
According to an EU regulation, the use and marketing of cosmetics containing trimethylbenzoyldiphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) has been banned across the European Union since September 1st. This substance has been widely used in hybrid nail polishes, nail extension gels, and nail tip adhesives.
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has classified TPO as a CMR compound – meaning it is carcinogenic, mutagenic, and toxic to reproduction. The Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) issued its opinion on this matter in 2021.
The Chief Sanitary Inspectorate reminds that the cosmetics industry was aware of the ban in advance – the first announcements appeared a year and a half ago, and additional warnings were issued in April and May this year.
"Our position is clear. As of September 1st, beauty salons should no longer use products containing TPO. Customers using beauty services should feel safe and confident that the products used are safe and meet legal requirements," emphasizes Marek Waszczewski , spokesperson for the Chief Sanitary Inspectorate.
The Inspectorate urges salon owners to carefully check the composition of the products they order and only use cosmetics available on the market that contain TPO substitutes.
"Using cosmetic products containing TPO may pose a health risk. We recommend that beauty salons use only safe products, thus ensuring the health and safety of their clients," adds Waszczewski.
For many salons, this means switching to new products and verifying their ingredients. While TPO has been the standard in nail styling for years, the beauty market must now quickly adapt to EU requirements. Experts emphasize that this is a step toward greater health safety for both clients and salon workers.
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