TPO Ban: This will change from September 2025

The European Union continues to focus on the safety of cosmetic products, and this will soon also have an impact on the nail world. By September 2025, the substance TPO ( Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide ) will be banned in nail products.

In this blog, we explain exactly what TPO is, why it is banned, and what that means for you as a nail technician.

1. What is TPO?

TPO is a photoinitiator , a chemical that causes gels to cure under UV or LED light. It's often used in combination with other substances such as HEMA or di-HEMA in nail products, especially in thicker gels or fast-setting formulas.

❗ Important note about product names❗

Pay close attention to the exact names of the ingredients! Only Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide | Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide is prohibited. There are other substances with a similar name that are not covered by this ban.

For example: Di-p-tolyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide and Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate are not TPO, despite the similarity in name. These are variants and are also fully permitted.

Therefore, it is crucial to always check the full designation and, if in doubt, seek advice .

2. Why is TPO banned?

Scientific research shows that TPO:

• may be harmful in contact with skin ,
• may cause allergic reactions or irritation ,
• and is suspected to be carcinogenic through prolonged exposure (suspected, but not proven).

To better protect consumers and professionals, the EU has decided through the REACH regulation that products containing TPO will no longer be allowed on the European market from 1 September 2025 .

3. What does this mean for nail technicians?

From September 2025:

• You are no longer allowed to use or sell products that contain TPO .
• Should brands and suppliers adapt their formulas to offer TPO-free alternatives?
• It is becoming more important than ever to carefully check the ingredient lists of your products.

At Nailskillz we are already working hard on this:
✔️ We collaborate with Mistero Milano, a Polish professional brand that is adapting its formulas or is already TPO-free.
✔️ We will no longer offer products containing TPO in our webshop from September 2025.
✔️ We always clearly list the ingredients so you can work safely.
✔️ Our entire HYPE line is now 100% free of TPO, HEMA and di-HEMA.
These products are not only future-proof, but also safer for you and your clients and perfect for sensitive nail types.
✔️ You can find products with TPO in our extreme summer deals.

4. What can you as a nail stylist do about this now?

✔️ Check your current products for the presence of TPO
✔️ Switch to TPO-free alternatives in time
✔️ Feel free to ask us for advice if you are unsure which products are safe and permitted

At Nailskillz we are happy to help you switch to future-oriented products that comply with European legislation.