TPO , a tiny molecule making massive waves on social media . Lets cover the basics !

TPO – A Tiny Molecule Making Massive Waves on Social Media

Let’s break it down – clearly, simply, and professionally.

What Exactly is TPO?

Let’s start with the science:
TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) is a photo-initiator — a molecule used in gel nail systems that helps the gel cure (harden) under UV or LED light. When TPO is exposed to UV light during a manicure, it initiates a chemical reaction that causes the gel to set and harden.

Here’s the key part: once the curing process is complete, the TPO is fully consumed and becomes locked into the hardened gel. This means it’s no longer a free chemical that could be absorbed or transferred — it's bonded into the finished nail product.

This process is standard in many UV-curing systems, including dental materials, coatings, adhesives, and, of course, gel nail enhancements.

So, Why All the Controversy?

You may have seen posts and videos warning about TPO being “toxic” or “banned.” Here's what actually happened:

The European Union conducted a toxicity study using very high oral doses of TPO on rats — we're talking amounts far beyond what a person would ever come into contact with during a manicure. The study found signs of toxicity when ingested, not when applied to nails or skin, and certainly not in the cured form that’s found in finished gel products.

💡 Important note:
TPO was tested in its raw, uncured form — not how it's used in salons. Nobody should be ingesting raw cosmetic materials, and this study does not reflect how gel products are actually used.

Despite this, the EU has decided to ban TPO in cosmetic products — even though it’s still allowed in dental applications where it is also cured under UV light.

Should Nail Techs in New Zealand Be Worried?

In short: No.
This ban applies only to countries governed by European cosmetic regulations. As of now, New Zealand has no ban or restriction on the use of TPO in nail products.

Unless you are using European-manufactured brands, this change won’t impact your products or your service offerings at all.

Surmanti’s Position: Proactive, Not Reactive

At Surmanti, we don’t wait for regulations to change before taking action.

We’ve been aware of the EU’s direction on TPO for quite some time and have been quietly, proactively reformulating our gel products with alternative photo-initiators — well before this became a “hot topic.”

Here’s what that means for you:

• ✅ The majority of our gel products no longer contain TPO.
  
  

• ✅ Any remaining stock that does contain TPO has it in very low, safe levels and is still used in a way that renders it harmless after curing.
  
  

• ✅ You can trust that our products are developed with your safety, your clients’ wellbeing, and future-proof compliance in mind.
  
  

What Should You Do as a Professional?

• Stay informed, not alarmed. It’s important to understand what’s in your products and how they’re used — but don’t let sensational posts scare you without context.
  
  

• Know your sources. Social media can spread misinformation quickly. Always refer to official regulatory bodies and trusted brands (like Surmanti) for accurate updates.
  
  

• Educate your clients. When clients come in with questions about "banned ingredients" or “toxic chemicals,” you’ll now be able to confidently explain the facts.
  
  

In Summary

• TPO is safe when used as intended — in cured gel products.
  
  

• The EU has banned it based on oral ingestion studies, which are irrelevant to nail services.
  
  

• New Zealand regulations have not changed, and TPO use in gel nails is still permitted.
  
  

• Surmanti is already ahead of the curve, with updated formulas and full transparency.
  
  

Need more info or want to see our updated ingredient lists?
📩 Reach out to our team — we’re always happy to help!