Why TPO is banned in EU cosmetics
The EU Cosmetics Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009) sets the rules for what ingredients can and cannot be used in cosmetic products. Under Article 15, any substance officially classified as a CMR (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or Reprotoxic) Category 1A or 1B is automatically banned in cosmetics unless a special exemption is granted.
TPO was recently classified as a CMR 1B reproductive toxicant under the EU’s CLP Regulation (Classification, Labelling and Packaging). That classification legally triggered the Cosmetics Regulation’s ban mechanism. Since no exemption was requested or granted for nail products, the European Commission passed Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/877, adding TPO to Annex II (the list of prohibited substances).
This ban took effect on 1 September 2025. After this date, nail brands in the EU cannot place TPO-containing products on the market, and professionals cannot use them in salons.
Sources:
• Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, Article 15
• Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/877
• European Commission Q&A on TPO in nail products
What this does and doesn’t mean:
This is not a sudden verdict on the safety of nail products. TPO has been used safely for years when applied correctly. It is one of many ingredients that can cause skin sensitization if mishandled, but the EU ban wasn’t triggered by nail industry data or a new wave of reactions.
Instead, the ban follows a legal chain reaction:
1. A substance gets classified as CMR 1B under the CLP Regulation.
2. Cosmetics law requires its prohibition unless proven safe for cosmetic use through a formal exemption.
3. No exemption = automatic ban.
Other industries using TPO may have different regulations, so you might see it used in places like coatings or adhesives under separate legal frameworks.
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Where Healthy Nails Collaborative stands:
• Follow the law, stay informed. If you work in or sell to the EU, TPO-free products will be required from September 2025.
• Context matters. TPO is one of many ingredients with sensitization risks; education, proper application, and clear labeling remain the bigger priority.
• No panic needed. This is a regulatory outcome, not a sudden crisis for nail professionals.
We encourage brands to communicate openly about ingredient changes and for professionals to keep their focus on science, safety, and transparency.
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The Receipts:
• 1 September 2025: Deadline for EU market compliance; no professional use or sales allowed after this date.
• Article 15, EU Cosmetics Regulation: Sets the automatic ban rule for CMR 1A/1B substances.
• Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/877: Adds TPO to Annex II (prohibited list).
• European Commission Q&A: Clarifies timelines and enforcement.
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Amber “The Nail Whisperer”
Founder Healthy Nails Collaborative
Nail Industry Advocate & Analyst