What Do You Need to Know About TPO Ban in Nail Products?

The nail industry is experiencing a significant regulatory shift as the European Union has officially banned a key ingredient found in many popular gel nail polish brands. Starting September 1, 2025, Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) is no longer permitted in cosmetic products across EU member states. This ban has sent ripples through the global beauty industry and left many consumers wondering what this means for their favorite nail products. 

Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide, commonly known as TPO, is a photoinitiator that plays a crucial role in gel nail polish formulations. When exposed to UV or LED light during the curing process, TPO triggers a chemical reaction that transforms the liquid gel polish into a solid, durable coating on the nail.

TPO is prized in the nail industry for its efficiency and performance. It ensures fast, deep, and even curing of gel polishes, resulting in a glossy, strong, and homogeneous finish that nail technicians and clients have come to expect. The molecule works by splitting into two active fragments when hit by LED light: a phosphinyl radical and a benzyl radical, which initiate the polymerization process that hardens the gel.

Beyond the beauty industry, TPO is widely used in various applications including UV coatings, industrial adhesives, printing inks, dental applications (such as dental fillings), and UV packaging. Its versatility and effectiveness have made it a go-to ingredient across multiple industries requiring UV-cured materials. 

The European Union's decision to ban TPO stems from growing health and safety concerns. European officials have designated TPO as a substance believed to be "carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction" (CMR), and the use of CMR substances is prohibited by EU cosmetics legislation.

The ban was implemented under the REACH regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) and the Omnibus Act VII, which aim to better protect both consumers and beauty professionals from potential health risks. The European Commission's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has noted that while TPO may be considered safe at concentrations up to 5% in nail products, it is classified as a moderate skin sensitizer, meaning it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

The health concerns that led to this ban include:

• Potential carcinogenic effects: TPO has been classified as potentially cancer-causing

• Reproductive toxicity: The chemical may pose risks to fertility and reproductive health

• Mutagenic properties: TPO could potentially cause genetic mutations

• Skin sensitization: The ingredient can trigger allergic reactions and skin sensitivities 

While the EU has taken a firm stance against TPO, the ingredient remains legal and widely available in other markets, including the United States. This regulatory discrepancy has created a complex situation for global beauty brands and consumers who travel between regions.

Morocco has recently followed the EU's lead, with the Moroccan Agency for Medicines and Health Products announcing a ban on nail products containing TPO due to health risks. However, other major markets like the US continue to allow TPO in cosmetic formulations. 

Several major nail polish brands have already transitioned to TPO-free formulations or have maintained TPO-free recipes from the beginning. These brands offer safe alternatives for both professional nail technicians and consumers who want to continue enjoying gel manicures without health concerns. 

CND Shellac has established itself as a leader in safe gel nail polish formulations by offering a comprehensive range of TPO-free products. The brand's commitment to safety doesn't compromise on performance, as their TPO-free formulas still deliver the long-lasting, chip-resistant results that CND Shellac is known for. These polishes maintain the same easy application process and provide up to 14 days of high-gloss wear, making them a reliable choice for both professional salons and home users seeking safer alternatives.

The CND Shellac TPO-free collection includes a wide variety of colors and finishes, from classic nudes and bold brights to sophisticated seasonal shades. Professional nail technicians appreciate that these formulations cure consistently under LED lights and maintain the same removal process as traditional formulations, making the transition seamless for established CND users. 

OPI GelColor has responded to safety concerns by developing an extensive line of TPO-free gel polishes that maintain the brand's reputation for quality and innovation. Known for their iconic color names and trend-setting shades, OPI's TPO-free GelColor collection ensures that clients can still access their favorite colors without exposure to potentially harmful ingredients.

The TPO-free OPI GelColor formulations are designed to provide the same salon-quality results that professionals and consumers expect from the brand. These polishes offer excellent coverage, vibrant color payoff, and the durability that has made OPI a staple in professional nail salons worldwide. The brand's commitment to reformulation demonstrates their dedication to both innovation and safety in the evolving cosmetics landscape. 

Gelish has developed a comprehensive range of TPO-free nail polishes that cater to both professional and consumer markets. The brand's TPO-free formulations maintain the quick-curing properties and long-lasting wear that have made Gelish popular among nail technicians. These products continue to offer the smooth application and high-gloss finish that clients expect from professional gel services.

The Gelish TPO-free collection spans an impressive color range, including their signature seasonal collections and classic staples. Professional users particularly appreciate that these reformulated products maintain compatibility with existing Gelish systems, including their base and top coats, making the transition to TPO-free formulations straightforward for established users of the brand. 

Jessica GELeration offers a unique approach to TPO-free gel nail polish by incorporating vitamin-enriched formulations designed specifically for natural nails. This brand focuses on combining long-lasting gel polish performance with nail health benefits, making it an attractive option for consumers concerned about both safety and nail care.

The Jessica GELeration line is particularly notable for its emphasis on nail health, with formulations that include vitamins and nourishing ingredients. This approach addresses concerns some consumers have about the potential effects of regular gel polish use on natural nail health. The brand's TPO-free formulations provide professional-quality results while supporting the overall condition of natural nails, making them suitable for regular use without compromising nail integrity.