The truth about TPO in nail products and the EU ban
If you’re in the nail industry, you’ve probably seen the headlines: “TPO Banned in the EU!”
Cue confusion, panic… and a lot of half-truths.
Let’s break down what’s really going on — what TPO is, why the EU banned it, and what it actually means for you and your clients.
What is TPO and Why Was It Banned?
TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) is a photoinitiator used in many gel systems. It’s the ingredient that helps gels cure quickly under LED or UV light — making it a favourite in professional salons for over 20 years.
So why the ban?
As of September 2025, the EU added TPO to its list of prohibited cosmetic ingredients. This decision followed animal studies where extremely high doses of TPO (far beyond what’s used in nail products) showed possible effects on fertility. As a result, TPO was classified as a CMR substance (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or toxic to Reproduction).
Sounds scary? Keep reading.
Animal Testing vs. Real-World Use
Here’s the key issue:
The studies that triggered the ban involved animals ingesting large amounts of TPO — not applying a tiny layer to a fingernail and curing it under a lamp.
In real-world salon settings:
-
TPO is typically used at 1–3% concentration
-
It’s cured onto the nail, not absorbed into the skin
-
It does not come into direct contact with the bloodstream
In fact, independent scientific safety committees have previously declared TPO safe for use in cosmetics at levels up to 5%. There’s currently no clinical evidence that gel manicures using TPO pose a health risk when applied properly.
Is the Panic Justified?
The short answer? No.
The EU’s decision was made based on hazard classification, not real exposure risk. That means it was a regulatory move made from a “better safe than sorry” standpoint — not because TPO was causing actual harm in salons.
For nail techs and clients, this has caused a wave of confusion. But as of now, there are no known cases of health issues directly linked to TPO in cured gel nail products.
🇬🇧 What About the UK?
Here in the UK, TPO is still completely legal for use in nail products.
There are whispers that the UK may follow the EU’s lead by late 2026, but as of today, no formal regulations or timelines have been announced. Nail professionals can continue to use and offer TPO-based products safely and legally.
In the meantime, many brands — including Arty Nails — are working proactively to phase out TPO and provide alternatives that meet evolving regulations without compromising performance.
But the weird part is, that TPO is still used all over in Dentistry to light cure and harden implants…… Go figure.
What About HEMA and Di-HEMA?
These ingredients are also under discussion.
-
HEMA helps with adhesion, flexibility, and durability
-
Di-HEMA is a larger, more stable molecule with reduced skin sensitivity risks
They’re widely used and safe when applied properly. Issues typically arise only with improper application or existing allergies. Arty Nails now offers HEMA-free and Di-HEMA-free options for salons who prefer to play it ultra-safe — but we also still offer these ingredients in our standard range for professionals who are comfortable using them.
Final Thoughts
The EU ban on TPO sounds alarming — but in reality, it’s a regulatory precaution based on data that doesn’t reflect how nail products are actually used.
For UK professionals:
-
TPO is still safe, legal, and widely used
-
There’s no current need to stop using your trusted products
-
Arty Nails offers options with and without TPO, HEMA, and Di-HEMA to suit your preferences
As always, follow best practice, avoid skin contact, and apply products correctly — and you’ll continue to offer safe, salon-quality results your clients love.
At Arty Nails, we’re committed to being transparent, ahead of the curve, and supportive of every pro we work with.
High-performance gel polishes
One-coat coverage
Affordable pricing – from just £5.99 per shade
Formulas with and without TPO/HEMA – your choice, just let us know which you prefer and we’ll send accordingly.
Have questions or want to switch to our safer, smarter range?
