What exactly is TPO?
TPO is an ingredient found in some nail polishes and gels. Its role is to trigger the curing process in a UV or LED lamp. It's worth noting that, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 on cosmetics, September 1, 2025 TPO has been removed from the list of permitted substances in cosmetic products.
In the chemical and cosmetics industry, TPO is known by different names, but it always refers to the same compound – Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide. It can also be found under names such as Diphenyl (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide Whether 2,4,6-Trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide.
What about substitutes?
When the European Commission's decision on CMR substances was removed from cosmetics, other, safer substances began to be used that fully fulfill their function. They guarantee long-lasting styling without risking the user's health.
Still allowed and legal in cosmetics after September 1, 2025:
- TPO-L (Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate)
- BAPO (Bis-Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphine Oxide)
- HCPK (Hydroxycyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone)
- TMO (Trimethylbenzoyl Ditolylphosphine Oxide), also called TPO-R
All of the above substances are fully legal on the EU market, which allows you to achieve not only a lasting and aesthetic manicure effect, but also ensures safety and comfort when using the products.
Can Modena Nails products be considered safe?
We can confidently say yes. The TPO photoinitiator is no longer used in our products. Instead, we've used safe, approved substances that allow for equally durable and well-cured manicures—while maintaining the highest safety standards.
If you have any doubts, you can always check the ingredients listed for each product. Ingredients (INCI), to check whether a given cosmetic contains no TPO and what photoinitiators were used. This information is always visible, as customers have the right to know what they are applying to their nails.
