On August 1, 2025, the Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic announced that the European Commission will ban the use of Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) in all cosmetic products, including nail modeling gels, effective September 1, 2025.
TPO, registered under CAS number 75980-60-8, is a photoinitiator commonly used in artificial nail systems to harden gels under UV or LED light. The ban follows scientific findings that link TPO to skin irritation and reproductive toxicity. During the review process, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) received no requests for exemption, confirming that no safe level of use could be justified.
Details of the Regulation
From September 1, 2025, the use of TPO in any cosmetic product is prohibited across the European Union. Manufacturers and distributors must remove all TPO-containing products from circulation by August 31, 2025.
The substance has been classified as hazardous due to risks such as allergic skin reactions, redness, reduced fertility, testicular damage, menstrual cycle disruption, and developmental issues in fetuses. Businesses must ensure that unsold inventory containing TPO is returned to manufacturers or importers for proper disposal before the enforcement date.
Regional hygiene stations will monitor compliance from September 1, 2025, with penalties for violations.
Feedback Deadline
September 1, 2025
Why It Matters
This ban reinforces the EU’s commitment to consumer safety and regulatory clarity in cosmetics. It also ensures alignment with scientific evidence, reduces public health risks, and supports the transition to safer alternatives with minimal administrative burden for compliant businesses.
Who Is Affected
The regulation impacts manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, and professional users of cosmetic products, particularly those in the nail modeling and salon industry.
Next Steps for Businesses
Companies should:
- Transition to alternative photoinitiators for nail modeling gels.
- Review and verify ingredient lists for compliance.
- Remove and return all unsold TPO-containing products before August 31, 2025.
Staying ahead of such regulatory changes requires more than one-time adjustments. Businesses need continuous monitoring, proactive insights, and efficient workflows to stay compliant as rules evolve. That’s where RegASK comes in.
RegASK, the AI-driven Agentic Solution for Regulatory Intelligence and Workflow Orchestration, trusted by leaders in life sciences, consumer health and cosmetics. It combines smart documentation, automated workflows, and integrated experts to deliver global continuous monitoring and actionable insights. Learn more or book a demo now.
FAQs
What is TPO in cosmetics?
TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) is a photoinitiator used to harden gels under UV or LED light, commonly found in artificial nail systems.
When does the EU ban on TPO take effect?
The ban on TPO in all cosmetic products is effective from September 1, 2025, with all products required to be removed from circulation by August 31, 2025.
Why is TPO being banned in the EU?
Scientific studies have shown that TPO poses risks of skin irritation and reproductive toxicity, including reduced fertility and developmental issues, leading to its classification as a hazardous substance.
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