What Does “TPO-Free” Mean – And Why It Matters, Even in Canada

A new EU regulation bans the use of TPO in nail products starting September 1, 2025. Although this rule doesn’t apply in Canada, Mystic Nails is already ahead of the curve — and that means safer, higher-quality products are already available to you.

We know some of you have noticed the “TPO-free” or “HEMA-free” tags popping up on product pages — and you might be wondering what that’s all about, especially if you're shopping from Canada, where this isn’t currently required.

Let’s clear that up.

What’s going on in the EU?

The European Union is introducing a ban on TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) in cosmetic products, including nail gels and gel polishes, starting September 1, 2025. TPO is a photoinitiator used in UV-curing nail products, but research has raised concerns about potential health effects with long-term exposure.

In response, nail brands across the EU have been working hard to reformulate their products without TPO — and Mystic Nails is one of the leaders in this shift.

What does this mean for Canadian nail techs?

While Canada doesn’t currently enforce the same regulation, working with a European manufacturer like Mystic Nails gives us a huge advantage. We are able to provide you access to formulations that meet some of the strictest cosmetic safety standards in the world — before they’re even required here.

That’s why you’ll start seeing more and more TPO-free (and HEMA-free) labels on our product pages. We’re gradually updating our inventory with these new versions as they become available from the manufacturer and we fill up stocks.

Why the delay?

Mystic Nails initially aimed to complete the transition by the end of May — but true to their standards, the final approval only came at the end of June. They took their time to test, refine, and re-test every formula before it went to market.

As they put it:

“If Dori, our Head of Development, didn’t stand behind a product, we didn’t release it. Simple as that.”

The bottom line:

We may not be required to follow EU regulations in Canada — but we choose to stock products that do. Because safety, performance, and transparency matter, no matter where you’re located.

So if you see "TPO-free" or "HEMA-free" on a product you love, now you know why.

Have more questions? Drop us a message — we’re always happy to help you navigate ingredients, safety, and product changes.