Understanding TPO in nail products: Facts behind the headlines
In the recent weeks, you may have seen posts on social media about TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) and it’s ban in parts of Europe. With so much conversation online, it’s natural to have questions. At Dream Beauty Studio’s, we believe in sharing clear, trustworthy information so you can feel confident in the products you use.
Why is TPO in the news?
The surge in social media discussions comes from the European Union’s recent restriction on TPO in cosmetics. This decision was based on a 2020 animal study where rats were fed extremely high doses of TPO for 10 days.
It’s important to highlight:
No human studies have shown the same effects.
TPO in nail products is not ingested—it’s part of a cured gel system applied topically.
The EU acted on a precautionary classification, not on direct evidence of harm in humans.
What about the UK?
While the EU has taken this step, the UK and US markets have not banned TPO. Regulators in these markets continue to allow its use because there is no evidence of direct harm in humans under normal nail salon conditions.
The industry’s response
The cosmetics industry frequently undergoes regulatory updates to protect consumer safety and well-being. A regulatory change is a proactive update to industry standards for future compliance this is not a product recall and current products are safe to use.
Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:
Manufacturers are transitioning to TPO-free formulas as a precautionary step.
Alternative solutions are already being developed to maintain the same quality and performance.
We and our partners follow EU / UK regulations closely, ensuring our products meet the highest safety standards.
Dream Beauty Studio’s response
We know social media can sometimes make topics feel more alarming than they are. While it’s good to stay informed, there’s no reason to panic. The facts are:
We are working directly with our manufacturers to ensure safe, compliant products.
A number of our nail colours are already TPO-free.
We are on track to have all of our nail colours TPO-free by as soon as we can.
At Dream Beauty Studio, your trust is our priority. We’re committed to transparency, safety, and innovation—so you can enjoy your nail products with confidence.
If you’ve seen the headlines or posts online and still have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help clarify.