VITO supports cosmetic safety with swift and reliable TPO & HEMA analysis
TPO- and HEMA-free cosmetics are crucial for consumer safety and represent a major evolution in the beauty sector. VITO’s specialised laboratory is at the forefront of chemical analysis, offering rapid and highly accurate testing services that support the development of safer, TPO- and HEMA-free cosmetics. VITO’s expertise in this field recently gathered considerable attention in the media, with features in print media such as The Guardian, interviews on national radio, and a full episode of Z-Sustainable Future.
Why TPO- and HEMA-free matters
Both TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) and HEMA (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) have been linked to allergic reactions, skin irritation, and serious health impacts for both nail technicians and consumers. As of September 2025, TPO is banned in cosmetic nail products in the EU, reflecting growing concerns and regulatory pressure. Meanwhile, HEMA, although not yet banned, is increasingly flagged for its allergenic potential, leading to a surge in demand for HEMA-free alternatives. Scientific evaluation and professional advocacy have prompted the beauty industry to shift toward safer products, safeguarding salon workers and customers alike.
VITO’s role in detection of TPO and HEMA
VITO supports manufacturers and salons by identifying even trace amounts of substances such as TPO and HEMA in cosmetic products. Urban Nails, for instance, turned to VITO for product analysis and found certainty in VITO’s advanced lab solutions. Thanks to innovative techniques like Dart-MS, VITO enables analysis of solid and liquid samples without prior preparation. This innovation shortened analysis times from days to minutes, providing Urban Nails with fast and precise results that clearly indicated which products were safe and where adjustments were required. This collaboration gave Urban Nails the confidence to offer genuinely safe products to customers and sent a strong signal of responsibility and transparency within the sector.
Watch the Z-Sustainble Future episode with Urban Nails and VITO:
In addition, The Guardian’s recent article ‘Exactly how safe is a gel manicure?’, featuring VITO senior researcher Jan Jordens, showcases the international impact and authority of VITO’s research supporting safer cosmetics.
Take the next step in product safety
Are you a cosmetics manufacturer, distributor, or professional seeking clarity and certainty about product safety? Discover how VITO’s advanced laboratory services can help you analyse, and certify your products for compliance with the highest standards.
Contact Wim Elen today for more information on how VITO can support your business with tailored chemical analysis and expert advice.
