A key ingredient in many brands of gel nail polish has been banned in the European Union (EU) - but currently remains available in the UK.

Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide, better known as TPO, gives gel polish its characteristic glossy finish and helps the polish harden when exposed to UV light.

The ingredient was banned by the EU as of September 1 over fears it could be toxic to humans.

What are the health concerns over gel nail polish?

The EU has said the TPO ban is because the ingredient has been classed as a CMR 1B substance, which it describes as a 'reproductive toxicant'.

Several studies conducted on animals have linked TPO to long-term fertility damage. More research is needed to fully understand the effects of the chemical on fertility, but the ban has been introd

See Full Page