There’s been a lot of talk in the nail industry about the ban on TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide). We want to give you a clear, official update – and explain what it means for nail professionals in the UK.

The EU Ban on TPO

From 1 September 2025, the EU has prohibited TPO in all cosmetic products.
According to the European Commission (EU Cosmetics Portal Q&A):

• TPO has been classified as a CMR 1B substance (reproductive toxicant) under the CLP Regulation.
• Under Article 15(2) of the EU Cosmetics Regulation, any CMR 1A/1B substance is automatically banned in cosmetics.
• Even though TPO was considered safe for professional nail use, no derogation (exception) was granted.
• This means the ban applies to manufacture, sale, and even use of older stock by Nail Technicians after 1 September 2025 in the EU.
  Source: European Commission – TPO Nail Products Q&A

What About the UK?

The UK is not affected yet. Current guidance suggests that the UK will align with EU law in late 2026. Until then, UK nail technicians can continue to use products containing TPO.

How to Spot TPO on Labels

TPO may appear under several names, such as:

• Diphenyl (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide
• (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) diphenylphosphine oxide
• 2,4,6-Trimethyl benzoyldiphenyl phosphine oxide

If you see any of these on your INCI list, your product contains TPO.

The Legally Compliant Alternatives

Don’t confuse abbreviations like 'TPO-L' or 'TPO-R' with banned TPO. Always read the full INCI name.
Here are the compliant alternatives now widely used in reformulated products (including ours since late 2024):

• TPO-L – Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate (CAS: 84434-11-7
• TMO (TPO-R) – Trimethylbenzoyl Ditolylphosphine Oxide / Di-p-tolyl (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) Phosphine Oxide (CAS: 270586-78-2)
• BAPO – Bis-Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphine Oxide (CAS: 162881-26-7)
• Hydroxycyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone – (CAS: 947-19-3)

These alternatives deliver strong curing performance, colour stability, and full EU compliance.

Don’t Forget Shelf Life – PAO Reminder

While we’re on the subject of older products, here’s an important reminder:
Our gels and gel polishes have a shelf life of 12 months once opened, as marked by the Period After Opening (PAO) symbol.
After this period, product stability and curing quality cannot be guaranteed.
We know colours are not always used up quickly – we’ve considered smaller sizes, but we don’t want to compromise on professional value.
Instead, we offer significant bulk order discounts so professionals can rotate and refresh stock regularly.
By following PAO guidance, you ensure consistent results, client safety, and compliance.

In Summary

• EU ban on TPO: in effect from 1 September 2025.
• UK enforcement: expected late 2026.
• Our products: reformulated in late 2024 with about 1% of all products affected.
• Your practice: check PAO dates, refresh stock, and always use professional products professionally.