The European Union has just banned a chemical called TPO that is used in many gel nail polishes. Scientists found that this chemical can damage fertility and cause problems in the reproductive system during animal tests. Because of this, Europe has decided it is too risky to allow in cosmetics.

In Ghana, many salons still use gel polishes that may contain TPO. The danger is not only for people who get manicures often, but also for salon workers who touch these products every day. The scary truth is that we do not check carefully enough what chemicals are in the products sold here.

Europe has already told companies to remove TPO products from the market. The United Kingdom is also preparing to ban it. Yet in Ghana, we continue to import and use these same products without asking questions.

This is a call to our Food and Drugs Authority, the Standards Authority, and the Ministry of Health: check what is coming into our country. Ban unsafe products before they cause harm. Educate salon owners and the public.

For consumers, the lesson is simple: ask your salon what polish they are using. Safer alternatives exist. Or stick to traditional nail polish, which has been safely used for decades.

Beauty should never come at the cost of your health.