As of 1 September 2025, the full ban on the usage of TPO substances in cosmetics will enter into force in Poland. The Chief Sanitary Inspectorate recalls that it is simply a component widely utilized in hybrid varnishes and nail gels. The decision was made on the grounds that TPO was considered as harmful to reproduction.
What is TPO and why was it so widely used?
TPO, or diphenyl-(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide (Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphosphine oxide), is simply a chemical that acts as photoinitiator. In cosmetic preparations, it is liable for starting the process of curing varnishes and gels under UV/LED light.
This relation was mainly utilized in:
- hybrid lacquers,
- nail styling gels,
- UV/LED hardening systems.
So far, TPO has been only authorised for professional use, in a limited concentration, under the provisions of Item 311 of Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products.
Why did GIS decide to ban it completely?
The Chief Sanitary Inspectorate (GIS) explains that the reason for the ban is classification of TPO as a reproductive harmful substance of category 1B in accordance with the Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP). This means that the substance may:
- adverse effects on fertility,
- cause foetal developmental damage.
Therefore, from 1 September 2025, the full ban on the usage of TPO in cosmetics will apply, regardless of their purpose, both professional and domestic.
What does this mean for the cosmetic industry?
Producers have until the end of August 2025 to retreat from the sale of products containing TPO and to implement alternate recipes. After that date:
- TPO cosmetics may not be placed on the marketplace or made available on the market,
- Beauty salons will be obliged to exchange all products containing the banned substance.
In practice, this means that a large part of the cosmetic offer for nail styling is needed. This process can be costly, especially for smaller manufacturers and independent stylists.
Consumers will besides feel changes
Consumers who regularly usage hybrid or gel manicure should be aware that:
- in the coming months may happen product redevelopment – fresh formulas will appear without TPO,
- existing preparations may disappear from shops and warehouses,
- possible changes in durability and properties nail cosmetics for another photonic substances.
What can salons and home users do?
To prepare for the upcoming changes, Beauty salons should begin verification of the composition of utilized products now. In particular, it is recommended that:
- checking labels and product safety data sheets,
- contact with suppliers to confirm the presence of TPO,
- testing alternate preparations available on the market.
In turn, people doing manicures at home should avoid “on stock” purchases TPO products which may no longer be legal on the marketplace after 1 September.
Prohibition experts: a step towards safer cosmetics
Dr. Anna Wójtowicz, a toxicologist and chemical safety expert, comments:
– The classification of TPO as harmful to reproduction leaves no area for compromise. This prohibition is simply a decision consistent with EU consumer wellness policy.
According to the expert, EU government is increasingly eliminate controversial ingredients of cosmetics, even if they have been authorised to usage to a limited extent.
The decision to retreat TPO from the cosmetic marketplace means important changes for the full nail styling industry. By September 2025, manufacturers, distributors and professional users will gotta adapt to the fresh requirements. Consumers can besides experience the effects of regulation, including by changing available products and their properties. The prohibition aims to increase wellness safety, which is part of a broader regulatory trend in the European Union.
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