Understanding TPO vs. TPO-L: Why Your Choice of Gel Polish Matters

There’s been a rush of information in recent months about the EU’s decision to ban TPO (Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide) in gel nail products. This move has left many beauty lovers asking: Is gel polish still safe? What alternatives exist? At Ambedo Beauty, we understand these concerns, and we’re here to give you the clarity you need.

The good news? All Ambedo Beauty Gel products are 100% TPO-free. Instead, we use the advanced and EU-compliant ingredient TPO-L (Ethyl trimethylbenzoyl phenylphosphinate), which offers the same performance benefits without the risks.

What is TPO and Why Was it Banned?

TPO is a photoinitiator, a type of ingredient that helps gel polish cure and harden under UV/LED light. While effective, research has raised safety concerns about TPO’s potential for skin sensitisation and long-term health risks. As a result, the EU chose to ban TPO in nail products, pushing brands to seek safer alternatives.

What Makes TPO-L Different and Safer?

TPO-L (Ethyl trimethylbenzoyl phenylphosphinate) is considered the next-generation photoinitiator. It was developed to replace TPO by making small but powerful changes to its chemical structure:

• Structural Difference: TPO contains a diphenyl phosphine oxide group that contributes to its sensitisation risks. In TPO-L, this has been substituted with an ethyl trimethylbenzoyl phenylphosphinate structure, which significantly reduces reactivity with skin.

• Result: TPO-L cures gels just as effectively, but with lower toxicity, reduced allergenic potential, and improved safety profiles.

This is why TPO-L is not only permitted but widely recognised as an EU-compliant, safe alternative.

Why Choosing the Right Nail Brand Matters

The EU ban highlights something important: not all gel polishes, or at-home nail kits, are created equal. With so many new options on the market, it’s essential to know which brands truly put safety first. Many people are now searching for TPO-free or EU-compliant gel polish, and with good reason, your nails deserve products that deliver salon-quality results without hidden risks.

That’s where Ambedo Beauty stands apart. Every formula in our gel collection is crafted to be non-toxic, nail-safe, and fully TPO-free, so you can enjoy the confidence of professional-level manicures at home with the reassurance of safer science.

Quick Comparison: TPO vs. TPO-L

TPO (Banned in EU)

• Chemical Name: Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide

• High sensitisation risk

• Potential toxicity concerns

• EU banned ❌

TPO-L (Safe Alternative)

• Chemical Name: Ethyl trimethylbenzoyl phenylphosphinate

• Reduced skin reactivity

• Safe, non-toxic profile

• EU compliant ✅

Ambedo Beauty: TPO-Free, Always

At Ambedo Beauty, we’ve always been committed to cleaner, safer nail innovations. Some of our bestselling TPO-free, EU-compliant products include:

• Fibreglass-Infused Top Coat – Flexible strength and chip resistance.

• Vitamin E Base Coat – Nourishing protection for stronger nails.

• 5-in-1 Fibre Base Gel (BIAB) – Base, colour, repair, ridge filler, and strengthener all in one.

• Solid Gels (6-Pan & Capsule Kits) – Cream-textured, easy to control, and perfect for at-home mastery.

Final Thoughts

The EU’s TPO ban isn’t something to be afraid of, it’s a reminder of how important it is to choose brands that stay ahead of safety standards. With Ambedo Beauty, our gels are TPO-free, non-toxic, and EU compliant, giving you professional results with peace of mind.

Ready for Safer, Smarter Nails?

🌸 Discover our gorgeous, TPO-free nail collection today and experience salon results, without the worry. Shop Ambedo Beauty →