The United Kingdom has banned a chemical used in some gel nail products over concerns about its potential effects on reproductive health, a move that could also affect Kenya’s growing beauty industry.
The chemical, Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO), helps gel nail polish harden when exposed to UV or LED lamps.
The new UK rules, which took effect on August 15, 2026, prevent manufacturers and importers from placing TPO-containing cosmetic products on the UK market.
Salons can continue using existing stocks until February 14, 2027, after which products containing TPO must no longer be used.
The move follows a similar restriction by the European Union, which classified TPO as a substance of concern because of its potential reproductive toxicity.
The restrictions do not mean gel manicures themselves have been banned. They specifically target products containing TPO.
What it means for Kenyan salons:
Kenya has not announced a similar ban, but the changes in the UK and EU could affect Kenyan salons and beauty product suppliers that import gel polishes from overseas.
As manufacturers shift towards TPO-free formulas, Kenyan salons may increasingly find alternatives such as TPO-L and BAPO on the market.
Customers can also check the ingredient list of gel products used on them and ask salons whether the products are TPO-free.
Those using UV or LED nail lamps may also consider applying sunscreen to their hands before treatment to reduce UV exposure.
