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2025 Gel Safety Update for Salons: TPO ban in the EU, HEMA risks & what ANZ pros should do
TL;DR: As of 1 September 2025, the EU prohibits TPO (a common gel photoinitiator) in cosmetic products. While this is an EU rule, it affects global supply and what many ANZ salons import. HEMA/di-HEMA are still permitted in the EU, but only in professional nail products with mandatory warnings—so keep strong hygiene, curing, and SDS practices in NZ/AU.
- Audit inventory for TPO (INCI: Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) and switch to compliant alternatives.
- Check HEMA/di-HEMA labels show “For professional use only” and “Can cause an allergic reaction”.
- Keep current SDS on site for all hazardous products and follow WHS controls.
- Review curing lamps and protocols; avoid skin contact during application.
What changed in 2025? (And why you’re hearing about it in NZ & Australia)
The European Commission confirmed TPO’s CMR 1B classification under CLP and added it to Annex II (prohibited substances) in the EU Cosmetics Regulation. Result: From 1 September 2025, any cosmetic product containing TPO cannot be sold or used commercially in the EU (no “use-up” period). That includes professional use in salons.
Regulators also summarised timeline and implications for distributors and salon owners. Even if you operate in NZ/AU, you’ll feel the effects through reformulated imports and supplier changes.
What is TPO? A UV/LED photoinitiator used to cure gels and builders; often chosen for low yellowing and fast cure. In the EU it’s now prohibited in cosmetics due to its new classification.
HEMA & di-HEMA: still allowed in the EU—under pro-use conditions
The EU restricts HEMA and di-HEMA TMHDC to professional-use nail products only, with mandatory on-pack warnings such as “For professional use only” and “Can cause an allergic reaction.” These provisions (Annex III) remain in force. For NZ/AU professionals, this is a solid baseline for labelling and practice.
Market checks have shown compliance gaps (missing warnings) on some products sold online—another reason to buy from reputable suppliers and request SDS.
What ANZ salons should do now
1) Audit & reformulate your kit
Identify TPO in your inventory (look for “Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide” on INCI). If you sell to the EU or use EU-sourced pro ranges, expect TPO-free reformulations already.
If a product contains HEMA/di-HEMA, confirm it is professional-use and carries the required EU warnings. Even outside the EU, those warnings reflect best practice.
2) Strengthen SDS & record-keeping in NZ/AU
Keep a current SDS for every hazardous substance on site (mandatory in NZ and required under AU WHS). Store them where staff can actually access them (not a locked cupboard).
Maintain a hazardous substances inventory and update it when products change. Consider NZ’s Hazardous Substances Calculator to check duties.
Request SDS from Kolorme
3) Tighten application & curing protocols
- Apply product precisely to the nail plate only; avoid skin contact (key to reducing sensitisation risk for (meth)acrylates like HEMA).
- Follow manufacturer cure times and lamp maintenance (bulb age/output matters). Keep a lamp log (purchase date, bulb changes, periodic tests).
- Provide PPE (nitrile gloves, dust control, ventilation) and clear client after-care.
In AU, refer to the Model Code of Practice for hazardous chemicals; in NZ, refer to WorkSafe guidance for hair/beauty.
Frequently asked questions
Is TPO already banned where I operate?
No—this is an EU prohibition. But if you import EU ranges or sell into the EU, products must be TPO-free now. Many non-EU brands are reformulating globally to simplify supply.
Can I “use up” old TPO stock in the EU?
No. There’s no sell-through or use-up for CMR 1A/1B substances under the EU Cosmetics Regulation; professional use counts as “making available on the market.”
Are HEMA/di-HEMA safe?
They’re permitted in professional nail products with strict application and warning labels. The main concern is skin exposure → potential allergic contact dermatitis; compliance and technique matter.
What paperwork should my salon have on hand?
- SDS for each hazardous product, accessible to staff.
- Hazardous substances register/inventory and controls (PPE, ventilation, training).
- Service protocols (application, curing, hygiene) and incident procedures.
Updated: 15 November 2025 (NZDT). This article is informational. Confirm requirements with your local regulator before making compliance decisions.