Working safely without HEMA and TPO: prevent allergies and comply with EU legislation
Working safely without HEMA and TPO: prevent allergies and comply with EU legislation
22 May 2025
HEMA and TPO free: why this is not a trend, but the future of safe nail products
Imagine: a customer sits down at your table. She smiles, but you notice a slight reluctance.
"Can I get a reinforcement without HEMA? I`ve been suffering from allergies."
And you understand her immediately.
Five years ago, you hardly heard this. Today, it's a daily reality. Where "HEMA-free" used to seem like just a marketing term, it's now a requirement. Not only because of customer sensitivity, but also because of increasing EU regulations. In this article, you`ll read why HEMA- and TPO-free nail products are not a hype, but are becoming the norm — and what safe alternatives there are.
What is HEMA and why is it risky?
HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate) is a commonly used monomer in nail products: think base coats, gels, gel polishes, acrylics and primers. It makes products strong, flexible and adhere well.
But HEMA has a major drawback: it is a very small molecule that easily penetrates the skin — through cuticles, micro-damage and even through the nail plate. If it does not fully cure or comes into contact with the skin, HEMA can:
- cause itching and burning,
- induce redness and eczema,
- lead to permanent allergies,
- cause swelling, pain and even nail rejection.
These complaints are becoming more and more common — especially with incorrect application or insufficient curing. That is why the European Union has already imposed stricter requirements on products with HEMA in 2021: use is only permitted for professionals and packaging must carry warnings such as “may cause an allergic reaction”.
What is TPO and why is it banned?
TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide) is a photoinitiator: a substance that ensures that gels harden under UV/LED light. Without TPO, there is no polymerization — and therefore no strong nails.
But TPO is toxic in the long term:
- it sensitizes the immune system,
- it may be carcinogenic if inhaled,
- it irritates the skin and mucous membranes.
That is why the European Commission has decided that TPO will be banned in cosmetic products that come into contact with the skin from 1 September 2025. Manufacturers are required to use safe alternatives.
No marketing — but legislation
"HEMA-free" and "TPO-free" are no longer empty phrases. They reflect a fundamental shift in the nail industry, driven by:
- medical complaints and lawsuits,
- new EU regulations,
- and the growing demand for safe nail products.
It's not a trend. It's a responsibility — for brands and stylists.
Can you work without HEMA and TPO?
The short answer is: yes. Provided you work with really safe products.
VERIN products do not contain HEMA and no TPO. In fact:
- they do not contain acids or aggressive monomers,
- they already comply with the European regulations of 2025,
- they are formulated with safe alternatives with a high molecular weight that do not penetrate the skin.
Which HEMA and TPO-free products are safe to use?
1. E-Gel – Professional reinforcement without HEMA and TPO
A professional gel for strengthening natural nails.
Free from HEMA and TPO. Ideal for BIAB treatments and customers with sensitive or allergic nails.
View E-Gel
2. Unique Gel – Builder gel without risks
Builder gel without HEMA or TPO. High hardness and yet flexible in application.
Suitable for reinforcement or light extension for sensitive clients.
View Unique Gel
3. Silicone Base & Medium Base – Safe acid-free bases
Flexible, acid-free bases without HEMA.
Extremely suitable for the most sensitive nail plate. Provide optimal adhesion without aggressive substances.
View Silicone & Medium Base
4. Top Crystal – Shine, protection and safety
Glossy topcoat without sticky _, free from HEMA.
Scratch-resistant, does not yellow and keeps the finish intact for up to 4 weeks.
View Top Crystal
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