TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) Nail Polish - What You Should Know for your Manicure

What Is TPO Polish and Why You May Be Hearing About It

If you follow beauty trends or love a good deep dive into European beauty standards, you may have come across the term TPO polish lately. At Polish and Posh, we believe that knowing what goes on your nails matters. Informed guests make confident choices. So let’s break down what TPO actually is, why it’s been getting attention, and what it means for your nail services with us.

What Is TPO

TPO stands for Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide. It’s a photoinitiator commonly used in gel nail products to help them cure under UV or LED lamps. In simple terms, it’s one of the ingredients that helps gel polish harden from a liquid into that glossy, durable finish we all love.

TPO has been used in professional nail products for many years because it works well and delivers consistent curing results.

Why the European Union Has Banned TPO

The European Union recently updated its cosmetic regulations and decided that TPO is no longer permitted in cosmetic products. This change comes from the EU’s precautionary approach to beauty and wellness, especially when it comes to long term exposure and potential reproductive health concerns.

It’s worth noting that the EU often takes a very proactive and conservative stance on cosmetic ingredients, sometimes moving faster than other regions around the world.

Is TPO Banned in Canada or the United States

No. TPO is not currently banned in Canada or the United States. Health Canada and the FDA have their own scientific review processes, and at this time TPO is still approved for use in professional nail products in both countries.

That said, many global beauty brands choose to meet the strictest international standards available. This is why you’ll often see TPO free products on the market, even where it isn’t legally required.

Why Many of Our Products Are Already TPO Free

At Polish and Posh, we work closely with high quality European nail brands that are constantly evolving and updating their formulas. Because of this, many of the gels and polishes we already use are TPO free, even though it’s not required in Canada.

In other words, we’re often ahead of changes rather than reacting to them later. LunaMoon is an example of a fully TPO free European brand that we important and love using in the salon!

The Benefits of TPO Free Products

For guests who value a more mindful approach to beauty, TPO free products can offer some added peace of mind.

Benefits can include:

• Alignment with the latest European cosmetic standards

• Reduced exposure to certain chemical photoinitiators

• A future focused approach to nail care and product safety

• Extra reassurance for guests who prefer products designed with long term wellness in mind

And just as important, TPO free does not mean sacrificing quality. Modern formulations still deliver excellent durability, beautiful colour payoff, and long lasting wear.

Our Commitment to Informed, Elevated Nail Care

At Polish and Posh, quality has always come first. From advanced Russian and Ukrainian manicure techniques to carefully selected products, every detail is intentional.

We stay informed on global beauty standards, partner with trusted brands, and make thoughtful choices so you can relax and enjoy your service with confidence.

If you ever have questions about the products we use or why we choose them, we’re always happy to chat - ask for Ana S. our product specialist and co-owner! Beautiful nails should feel good in every sense of the word.