There’s a date very close to home, the day an important new development for the world of nail art will come into force: the European Union’s ban on the use of substances that are now very often found in gels and semi-permanent polishes.
We are talking about Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) and Dimethyltolylamine (DMTA), two chemical compounds present in numerous professional and over-the-counter products, based on the update of the CLP Annex, the European regulation that establishes the classification, labeling and packaging of dangerous substances.
Client protection comes first, but so does that of nail technicians, due to the chemical risks posed by prolonged exposure. Let’s delve more specifically into these two chemical compounds. TPO is a photoinitiator that allows gel polish to cure rapidly under UV or LED lamps, while DMTA is a conditioner that improves the product’s adhesion to nails.
The European Commission believes that removing these compounds from the market is a necessary preventative measure to reduce risks for both those working in the sector and those who use nail polish and gels at home. Therefore, gels containing these two compounds can no longer be sold or used, and any stocks already purchased must be disposed of in accordance with current regulations.
Consumers are advised to carefully read packaging labels and always choose products certified “TPO and DMTA free.” This way, they avoid exposure to potentially harmful chemicals without sacrificing quality manicures. The ban extends to products sold in stores and online, seeking safe and certified alternatives, such as new photoinitiators and low-risk conditioners.
