TPO in Nail Products – What You Need to Know
At Beautyflair, our clients’ health and safety always come first. Recently, you may have heard some news about an ingredient called TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide) and the fact that the European Union has banned it in cosmetics as of 1 September 2025. Naturally, this has created some concern and confusion, so we’d like to explain what this means for you.
What is TPO?
TPO is a photoinitiator, an ingredient used in many gel nail products to help them cure (harden) under a UV or LED lamp. It’s been widely used because it ensures your gel polish cures quickly, thoroughly, and gives that beautiful, long-lasting shine.
Interestingly, TPO isn’t only found in nail gels – it’s also used safely in dental products, adhesives, and coatings.
Why the EU Banned It
The EU applies a hazard-based approach to cosmetics. A study in 2018 found that when rats ingested very high amounts of TPO, it affected their liver and reproduction. Based on that, TPO was classified as a potential reproductive toxicant. Under EU cosmetic law, this classification automatically means a ban – even though the risk to nail clients using the products as intended was considered negligible.
Industry experts point out the important difference between:
Hazard – the potential for a substance to cause harm.
Risk – the likelihood of harm under normal use.
In nail gels, TPO is locked into the hardened gel once cured, meaning it isn’t absorbed by the body. Safety reviews concluded the risk was extremely low when products were applied and cured correctly.
What This Means for South Africa
South Africa has not banned TPO, so there’s no need to panic if you’ve had gels with it in the past. Properly cured gels with TPO are safe. However, since most cosmetic manufacturers supply globally, many brands are already reformulating to be TPO-free to meet EU standards. This means over the coming months and years, TPO-free products will become the new norm internationally, including here in South Africa.
What We’re Doing at Beautyflair
The brands we use are EU compliant, meaning they meet strict international standards.
Our qualified and experienced nail technicians are trained to cure products correctly, eliminating unnecessary risks.
We are always looking ahead – not only are we keeping client safety a priority, but we are also adding a brand-new colour range soon that aligns with these evolving standards.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need to worry – your nails are safe at Beautyflair. We take pride in being ahead of trends, informed about regulations, and deeply committed to your wellbeing. With us, you can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy your treatments knowing that we’ve got you covered.
