TPO in Gel Polish: What You Need to Know
If you’ve been hearing about TPO being banned in Europe, you’re not alone! Many of our clients here at Plum have asked us about it recently, and we want to clear things up so you feel informed and confident when you come in for your manicure.
What Is TPO?
TPO stands for Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide.
Here’s what it does in gel polish:
Rapid curing – helps your gel set quickly under the lamp.
Color protection – reduces yellowing so shades stay true.
Deep, even curing – makes sure thicker gel layers harden all the way through.
Broad compatibility – works with many formulas, which is why brands have used it for years.
In short: TPO is what helps gel polish cure into a strong, glossy, long-lasting finish.
Why Was It Banned in Europe?
On September 1, 2025, the European Union banned TPO in cosmetic products.
The decision was based on animal studies where rats were given very high oral doses of TPO. At those extreme levels, some reproductive effects were observed.
There have been no studies on humans showing harm from TPO in gel polish.
The studies don’t reflect real salon use — gel is applied to nails, not swallowed, and exposure levels are tiny in comparison.
The EU ban is a precautionary measure, not a response to real-world health problems.
Where Is TPO Banned?
The ban only applies in the European Union.
Not banned in the U.S. or most other countries.
The U.K. has discussed it, but no regulations are in place yet.
What Do the Experts Say?
Nail scientist Doug Schoon, a leading authority in nail product chemistry, has spoken out about the TPO ban. He explains that the European Union’s decision was based on hazard (theoretical potential for harm) rather than risk (actual likelihood of harm during normal use). The studies behind the ban involved feeding animals extremely high doses of TPO — nothing like the tiny, topical exposure from a gel manicure. Schoon emphasizes that gel polish remains safe when used and cured properly, and that the industry is already reformulating with alternative ingredients that deliver the same shine and long-lasting wear. His conclusion? The ban is a precautionary step, not evidence that gel manicures with TPO are unsafe for clients.
What about the gel polish used at Plum?
We use three primary brands for our gel polish. All three manufacturers are already TPO-free or are moving to TPO-free formulations.
OPI – Their GelColor Intelli-Gel formulation became fully TPO-free in July 2024. Look for bottles labeled “Intelli-Gel” or “HEMA & TPO Free.” We have a mix of traditional Gelcolor and the Intelli-Gel formula at Plum.
Tammy Taylor – Offers protective systems to reduce contact with ingredients like TPO and continues updating their gels to meet new standards.
Madam Glam – In addition to being HEMA-free, the vast majority of their gels are already TPO-free, and the few that aren’t are being reformulated to ensure the whole range is compliant.
It is relevant to note that the top coat and base coat we use at Plum is both HEMA and TPO-free, and therefore encapsulates these ingredients between the layers, which reduced exposure.
What’s Replacing TPO?
The beauty industry already has safe alternatives:
TPO-L (Ethyl phenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphinate)
BAPO (Phenylbis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine Oxide)
Both work just like TPO — fast curing, glossy finish, long wear — but aren’t included in the EU ban.
As a user, you won’t notice any difference in application or results.
What This Means for Your Manicure
You’re safe: No evidence shows harm from salon gel manicures with TPO.
You’ll still love the results: TPO-free products look and last just as beautifully.
We’re staying ahead: Our salon follows the latest ingredient changes and brand updates so you can enjoy your nails without worry.
The Bottom Line
While we understand that ingredient bans can raise concerns, at Plum Natural Nail & Skin Spa we are committed to offering only the safest, highest-quality products. Based on the guidance of trusted experts, we’ve found little cause for concern with TPO in real-world salon use. That said, your safety — and the safety of our nail technicians — will always be our top priority. We continually monitor ingredient changes, stay up to date with brand reformulations, and choose the products we feel are best for your health and peace of mind. All you need to do is relax, pick your favorite color, and enjoy beautiful, worry-free nails.