TPO-Free Nails: The Future of Gel Polish in Botswana

Gel polish has become one of the most loved beauty treatments for long-lasting, glossy nails. Recently, the ingredient TPO has been making headlines because the European Union has banned it. At Dee’s Beauty Spot, we believe in keeping our clients informed — and reassured — about what this means for your nails here in Botswana.

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What is TPO?

TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) is a photoinitiator. In simple terms, it’s the ingredient in many gels that reacts under UV or LED light to harden the product. Without photoinitiators like TPO, gel polish wouldn’t cure into that durable, glossy finish we all love.

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Why Was It Banned in Europe?

From 1 September 2025, TPO is banned from cosmetics in the EU. The reason? Studies in animals suggested possible effects on reproduction when exposed to very high doses of TPO. Because of this, European regulators decided to take a precautionary approach and ban its use in cosmetics altogether.

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Is TPO Dangerous for Clients?

Here’s what’s important to know:

• TPO molecules stay within the gel product and cure on the surface of the nail plate.
• They do not penetrate into the nail bed or bloodstream.
• The exposure clients get during a gel manicure is extremely small and very different from the high-dose lab studies regulators based their decision on.

So, while Europe has chosen to remove TPO out of caution, it doesn’t mean that having worn or using gels with TPO has put your health at risk.

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What Does This Mean for Botswana?

TPO is not banned in Botswana or most parts of the world right now. Many gel brands here will continue to use it for now, and that’s safe. At the same time, global manufacturers are reformulating to meet EU standards, so TPO-free gels are becoming the new standard internationally.

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SheSlays: Our TPO-Free Choice for Clients

At Dee’s Beauty Spot, we want to give our clients peace of mind and future-ready options. That’s why we have SheSlays, our very own professional gel range that is 100% HEMA & TPO-free.

Safe: our entire range of products is HEMA and TPO free. Made by experts for flawless results. 100% vegan & animal cruelty-free.

Long wearability: Non lifting, durable, waterproof, chip-resistant nails that last.

Highly pigmented, rich, vibrant colours: It only requires 1-2 layers for perfect coverage.

This means you get nails that are not only gorgeous but also in line with the latest international safety standards.

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The Bottom Line

• TPO is not harmful in the way many headlines make it sound. The molecules stay within the polish and don’t pass through the nail plate.
• The EU ban is about regulation and precaution, not because of direct evidence of danger for clients.
• In Botswana, gels with or without TPO remain safe.
• At Dee’s Beauty Spot, we’re proud to offer SheSlays TPO-free gel, giving you peace of mind and beautiful nails.

Because your self-care deserves both beauty and confidence.