TPO (Triphenyl phosphate) is a chemical compound that has previously been used in, among other things, printing inks, plastics, and electronics. Due to its harmful effects on both human health and the environment, the European Union has decided to ban the use of TPO.
Research has shown that TPO is an endocrine disruptor and can affect reproductive ability in both humans and animals. The substance is also persistent in nature and can therefore cause long-term pollution in ecosystems.
The EU’s ban on TPO is part of efforts to reduce exposure to hazardous chemicals and to protect public health as well as biological diversity. The ban means that it is no longer permitted to manufacture, import, sell, or use products containing TPO within the EU member states.
The purpose of the ban is to reduce the risk of negative impacts on human health and safety. The decision aligns with the EU’s precautionary principle, which means that exposure to substances with suspected harmful properties should be limited even in cases where the full extent of the risk has not yet been determined. This is especially relevant for substances where available scientific data, such as from animal studies, indicate potentially serious health effects.
As of September 1, 2025, the following regulations apply:
- The ban fully covers the manufacture, sale, import, and use of cosmetic products containing TPO, even if the products were previously placed on the market.
- No transition period applies – existing stock may neither be sold nor used, even if it was manufactured before the ban.
TPO is a substance commonly used in gel nail polishes and is therefore no longer allowed in cosmetic products. The substance is used in the following products:
- Nail gel products
- UV-curing lacquers, adhesives, and paints