India, Sept. 9 -- Beautifully manicured nails are a staple of self-care and style, but the products we use may carry hidden health risks. The European Union (EU) has banned a key ingredient found in gel nail polish, instructing salons to safely dispose of their current stock and requiring manufacturers to release safer alternatives.

The compound in question, Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO), is what helps gel polish harden quickly under UV or LED light, giving nails a glossy, glass-like finish. The EU's move comes after studies linked TPO exposure to skin irritation, toxicity, fertility issues, and DNA damage, raising concerns about its potential to increase cancer risk.

On whether people should continue using gel nails an...