Lots of confusion, little time?
Here are the quick answers:
Q: What is TPO?
A: An ingredient that ensures UV gel products cure under the lamp.
Q: When does the ban take effect?
A: As of September 1, 2025.
Q: Can I still use my current stock?
A: No, since September 1, 2025, you are no longer allowed to work with products that contain TPO.
Q: Are you still selling products with TPO?
A: No, our entire range is 100% TPO-free.
Q: How to Spot TPO on Labels?
A: 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.
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.
The substances below may look similar but are allowed (not banned):
TPO-L is an alternative photoinitiator and is not banned.
Possible spellings of TPO-L:
●Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate
●Ethyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phenylphosphinate
●TPO-L
BAPO is another photoinitiator and it is also not banned.
Possible spellings of BAPO:
●Bis Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphine Oxide
●Bis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phenylphosphine oxide
●BAPO
Only check UV/LED products – no need to check regular polishes or acrylics.
No Panic!
According to data from the European Commission, there is no evidence that TPO is harmful under normal use. The ban is precautionary, mainly because TPO showed risks in animal studies with long-term exposure and high doses.
Source: European Commission & EFSA chemical risk database.