So far, almost every woman has used it. Soon it will be completely banned in Europe

As of September 1, products known to every hybrid manicure lover will disappear from drugstore shelves. The ban on the use of TPO is not only a change in the composition of cosmetics - it is a signal that safety in the beauty industry is starting to play first fiddle. But will nails still shine the same?

Although its name sounds more like a chemistry textbook code than a cosmetic ingredient – ​​TPO, or Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide – has been the undisputed star of nail styling products for years, as one of the photoinitiators. What does it mean? Photoinitiators are special chemical compounds that react to light – usually UV or LED – and trigger the polymerization, or hardening, process. When light from a lamp falls on a nail product (e.g. hybrid polish or gel), it is the photoinitiator that “comes to life” and initiates the hardening of the product. In short: thanks to it, the polish changes from a liquid form into a durable, shiny layer resistant to chipping.

Manicure/photo Unsplash Stefan Lehner

As of September 1, 2025, according to a decision by the European Union, cosmetics containing TPO are being withdrawn from the market. The substance cannot be sold or used – even in professional products. The cosmetics industry has the last few weeks to change formulas and convince consumers that the "new" will be as good as the "old".

In simple terms – because of safety. TPO has long been under the scrutiny of regulators due to its potentially harmful health effects, especially genotoxicity . Although it was previously approved for use in limited concentrations, the new regulations say directly: it's time to say goodbye.

- The ban on the use of TPO is intended to increase the safety of use of cosmetic products - confirms the EU announcement.

This is a clear signal for consumers: it is worth reading labels and consciously choosing products for daily care.

If you are a fan of hybrids or gels and you do them at home, be sure to check the composition of varnishes from September. In salons, professionals are already testing alternative formulas - without TPO, but with a new generation of photoinitiators , which are supposed to provide a similar effect without the risk.

It's quite a challenge for manufacturers. Finding a replacement that is equally effective and safe is a long process. But one thing is certain: manicure will not disappear from our hands. Only its composition will change - for the better.