If you love a quick-dry gel manicure, it might be time to rethink your nail routine. Dr. Pompa, a wellness expert, recently revealed a chemical in many nail polishes that is considered so risky it’s banned in Europe, yet still widely used in the U.S.
The culprit is TPO (trimethylolpropane triacrylate), a chemical commonly found in quick-drying UV gel nail polishes. “Hormone problems, reproductive problems, fertility problems—all linked to this chemical,” Dr. Pompa explained in a recent video. He added that while the European Union officially banned TPO as of September 1st, it remains legal in the U.S., meaning many gel manicures could expose users to these health risks.
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The Chemical You Need to Avoid: TPO
TPO works as a photo-initiator, helping gel polish harden quickly under UV light. While convenient, the downside is serious: the chemical has been linked to endocrine disruption and reproductive issues, making it a hidden risk in what many consider a routine beauty treatment.
According to Dr. Pompa, many popular UV gel manicures use TPO under the pretense of convenience. “You’re going to have to go back to the old-fashioned nail polish that takes forever to dry,” he warned. But even traditional nail polishes aren’t risk-free—some still contain chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate, which can also be toxic over time.
A 2021 review in Environmental Health Perspectives highlighted that frequent exposure to nail polish chemicals can potentially affect hormone function and reproductive health, especially with repeated salon visits.
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Safer Nail Polish Alternatives
If you want stylish nails without the toxic risks:
- Look for “3-free,” “5-free,” or “10-free” polishes – these labels indicate formulas free from some of the most harmful chemicals.
- Plant-based or natural nail polishes – brands like Zoya, Ella+Mila, and Tenoverten offer options free from TPO and other harmful additives.
- Avoid UV gel polishes unless you can confirm the product is TPO-free and fully third-party tested.
While gel manicures may be convenient, Dr. Pompa urges caution. Chemicals like TPO are banned in Europe for a reason: they pose significant hormonal and reproductive risks.
Opting for natural, non-toxic nail polishes is a small but impactful step to protect your health while keeping your nails beautiful. Your nails don’t have to sacrifice safety for style—choose wisely, and keep your mani both chic and chemical-conscious.
