Is putting nail polish on your nails safe for your health? Here's how to choose them

As of 1 September 2025, European legislation came into force banning the use of two chemical ingredients commonly found in semi-permanent nail polishes and other manicure products: the photoinitiator Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (Tpo) and the conditioner Dimethyltolylamine (Dmta). This decision, which has raised doubts and questions, is based on the results of animal studies that classified these substances as potentially toxic to the human organism as well. What changes for those who like a semi-permanent manicure? And what are the safe alternatives available? While manufacturers and beauty salons adapt, consumers can make informed choices for their own health.

Let us start by saying that the aim of this legislation is to protect the health of consumers by avoiding exposure to toxic agents. This does not mean, however, that every type of nail polish is dangerous. There are safe, equally valid alternatives for decorating nails. Specifically, laboratory animal research indicates that Tpo and Dmta are potentially toxic to the human body. The use of Tpo is associated with the risk of DNA mutations and a negative impact on fertility, while Dmta can cause hormonal imbalances and fertility problems, even in males. There are still no studies on the potential effects of these products on humans. The ban, therefore, is a precaution to protect public health.

The risks are very limited if semi-permanent gels are used, as is customary, in conjunction with UV lamps and with procedures performed by qualified personnel. The most exposed people are professionals who have used this method for years, risking inhaling or absorbing the suspected chemical compounds by contact, and for prolonged periods. Remember, however, that Tpo and Dmta are considered potentially, not definitely, toxic. In cosmetics, doses are minimal and absorption through the nails is low.

The new legislation bans the production of new products containing Tpo and prohibits traders and professionals from using any stocks, even if purchased before the ban. It may be worth informing yourself about the products used in the beauty salon you frequent to ensure that they are free of the hazardous substances. By law, the label must be clear. In any case, it is good to limit the frequent use of semi-permanent gels, not so much because of the risk of toxicity but because of frequent exposure to ultraviolet radiation. These radiations are also classified as potentially carcinogenic, although at very low levels.

Even products sold online or outside professional circles must carry a complete list of ingredients in Italian: this applies to cosmetics such as nail polishes and gels as well as UV lamps. To protect the health of your nails, however, the best way is still to rely on qualified personnel.