Europe bans chemical used in some gel nail polishes
UC expert featured in CNN article discussing alleged 'reproductive toxicant'
The University of Cincinnati's Kelly Dobos spoke with CNN about the European Union prohibiting the use of a chemical ingredient called trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) in some gel nail polishes and other cosmetic products due to it allegedly being a "reproductive toxicant."
TPO works as a photoinitiator, meaning it responds to light. In gel nail polish, it helps the polish set under ultraviolet or UV light.
“It starts that reaction that gets it to cure,” said Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist and adjunct instructor at UC's James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy, told CNN.
The EU's concerns stem from animal study results, but Dobos said people who enjoy gel manicures do not need to panic.
“What’s important to keep in mind is that those end points and those studies were from animal-feeding studies. When you’re thinking about nail polish, that’s clearly not how we’re exposed to TPO. You’re not eating the nail polish. So, it’s a different route of exposure," Dobos said.
"In my opinion, these materials, in the way that they are used, are very safe, but there are alternatives,” she continued.
Dobos also spoke with CBS News about TPO and the EU decision. Watch the CBS News segment.
Featured photo at top of a person getting a manicure. Photo/nazar_ab/iStock Photo.
Related Stories
From the pitch to personal impact
May 11, 2026
Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, is uniting blood donors around one shared mission — saving lives close to home — through two unique blood drives this May. From the FC Cincinnati Blood Drive at TQL Stadium to an event honoring local blood recipient and cancer survivor John Mattingly, these blood drives offer meaningful ways to give back. Whether inspired by hometown pride or a powerful personal story, blood donors are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and help ensure life-saving blood is available for patients across the Tristate. Patients at local hospitals depend on blood donations every day, and community support is critical to maintaining a strong supply.
GE Aerospace workforce training focuses on Dayton workers
May 11, 2026
GE Aerospace is launching more employee training at its Beavercreek Plant. The Dayton Daily News talks to the company's site leader, a University of Cincinnati graduate who got his start at GE Aerospace through UC's co-op program.
UC Blue Ash announces 2026 outstanding alumni award winner
May 11, 2026
Mark Brueggeman has enjoyed a long and successful business career that includes launching his own petrochemical distribution company that has clients around the world and grosses more than $150 million per year.