A key component in gel nail polish has been banned in Europe over fears it may cause cancer or infertility—but it remains in use across the U.S. this week.

Why It Matters

European officials designated trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) as a product believed to be "carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction" (CMR)—and the use of CMR substances is prohibited by cosmetics legislation.

Europe's decision to ban the chemical for cosmetic use means that nail salon clients living within the bloc will no longer have their fingernails coated in potentially toxic TPO products. However, their American counterparts may be unaware of the potential dangers and will still be offered unregulated TPO-containing gel polish in salons across the country.

Some 100 million women used nai

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