Background
The prohibition of Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO) stems from TPO’s mandatory inclusion in Annex II (prohibited substances) of the Cosmetics Regulation after its classification as a CMR category 1B reproductive toxicant under Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/197. This classification, effective from 1 September 2025, automatically triggered the cosmetic prohibition under Article 15 of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, with 25 EU Member States voting in favour, 1 against, and 1 abstaining.
What’s new?
Following significant industry queries regarding Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/877 prohibiting TPO in cosmetic products from 1 September 2025, the European Commission has released detailed Q&A guidance to ensure consistent enforcement across all EU Member States.
What now?
- From 1 September 2025 – Complete ban on placing on the market and making available TPO-containing cosmetic products
- No transitional period – Both new products and existing stock cannot be sold or supplied commercially. All TPO-containing inventory must be removed from commercial premises
- Manufacturers – Cannot place new TPO-containing products on EU market
- Distributors and retailers – Cannot sell or supply TPO products regardless of inventory purchase date
- Professional use prohibition – Nail technicians and salons cannot use TPO products on clients, regardless of purchase date. Must immediately discontinue use of all TPO-containing products in commercial services.
References
European Commission. (2025, August 7). TPO in Nail Products – Questions & Answers.
