An ingredient present in gel nail products was classified as dangerous and can no longer be marketed in the European Union, according to Deco. The decision came into force on September 1 and covers both the sale and the professional application.
For years, Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphine Oxide, known by the acronym TPO, was used to harden the gel, the vestniz gel and the so -called “gelinho” by exposure to UV or LED lamps. The compound functioned as a photo-institution, allowing the product to be fixed.
Now scientific studies have led to their prohibition. The European Chemical Agency (ECHA) considered that the TPO has potentially carcinogenic, mutagenic and toxic properties for reproduction.
Risk classification
According to the same source, the substance was included in the CMR 1b category, one of the most severe in toxicological assessment. This classification is based on results obtained in animal experiences, which pointed to health relevant risks.
After this decision, the European Commission was part of the TPO on the list of prohibited ingredients in cosmetic products. Thus, any article containing the compound can no longer be sold or applied to community territory.
The measure reinforces existing standards on security in the cosmetics sector, which aim to protect consumers and professionals.
How to confirm compliance
The experts cited by Deco recommend that customers be aware of the product label before accepting any application in aesthetic salons. The name of the ingredient should be read carefully: Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO).
If it is detected in a product, the use should not proceed. The indication must be communicated to Infarmed, the entity responsible for the inspection of cosmetics in Portugal.
It is important to note that there are other substances with similar designations but are not covered by the ban. Therefore, it is essential to verify the exact writing of the compound.
Professional use was limited
By the end of August, the TPO was still authorized in a professional context, in artificial nail kits, provided that the concentration did not exceed 5%. With the new legislation, this possibility ceased to exist for any kind of nails.
Despite the change, those who have used this type of products in the past should not go into alarm. According to, experts stress that due to low concentration and limited exposure degree, health risk will be reduced.
Impact for consumers and professionals
In practice, the ban requires salons and suppliers to adapt to new formulas. Many had already started replacement with safe alternatives, predicting the measure to be applied.
For consumers, the main recommendation is to redouble surveillance and always ask to consult the list of ingredients before any application.
A sector under greater scrutiny
The decision is part of the European policy to reinforce consumer protection in the field of cosmetics. Substances classified as dangerous are the target of increasingly tight restrictions to reduce long -term risks.
In the case of TPO, the process involved several years of scientific evaluation until it reached the definitive ban. Now it is up to the national authorities to oversee compliance with the standard.
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