Why Choosing HEMA and TPO-Free Gel Polish Matters

When it comes to gel polish, it’s no longer just about colour and longevity - it’s about what’s in the formula. With new cosmetic regulations shaking up the beauty industry, both professionals and home users are paying much closer attention to ingredients in their favourite brands.

But with so much conflicting information out there, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. That’s where we come in. Let’s clear up the myths, cut through the noise and explain why Bluesky is the smart, compliant choice for anyone serious about nails.

Everyone knows Bluesky as a pigment-rich, ultra-durable brand ...

But did you know we’re also 100% free from HEMA and TPO - two ingredients now under increased regulatory scrutiny across the EU and beyond?

Let’s break down what they are, why they’ve been restricted and why switching to Bluesky is the right move for professionals and everyday users alike.

What are HEMA and TPO and why have they been restricted? 

HEMA (Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate)

• What it is: A commonly used monomer in gel polishes

• Why it’s being restricted: HEMA has been known to cause skin sensitisation and allergic reactions, particularly when it comes into contact with the skin or is applied incorrectly

• Regulations: Now classified for professional use only in the EU, to minimise the risk of skin exposure and potential allergic reactions

TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide)

• What it is: A photoinitiator used to help gels cure under UV light

• Why it's restricted: TPO is under regulatory pressure due to concerns around long-term exposure and its classification under EU cosmetics regulations

Common myths about gel polish ingredients ...

“HEMA is only an issue if you’re allergic.”
Not true. Allergic reactions can develop over time. Even users who’ve never had issues before can become sensitised with repeated exposure - especially when using HEMA-containing products at home without proper precautions.

“All gel brands are the same.”
Wrong again. As regulations evolve, many brands are scrambling to reformulate. Bluesky is already ahead, offering a fully compliant, HEMA-free and TPO-free formula without compromising on performance.

What is in the Bluesky formula? 

At Bluesky, our compliant formula delivers the same high performance without the risks. While this isn’t an exhaustive list, we’ve replaced key restricted ingredients with safer, approved alternatives, namely: 

• Bis-HEMA (Bis-HEMA Poly (Ethylene Glycol) Dimethacrylate)

  • A larger molecule with lower skin penetration
  • Provides excellent adhesion and strength
  • NOT classified as a restricted or banned substance under EU regulations

• BAPO (Bis‑Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphine Oxide) 

  • A safe and effective alternative to TPO
  • NOT listed among EU prohibited substances
  • Explicitly recognised as a recommended substitute in UV-curable formulations

• TPO-L – (Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate) 
  

  • Advanced photoinitiator that ensures fast, stable curing
  • Offers salon-quality results without triggering regulatory issues
  • NOT under EU ban or restriction

Why are professional nail technicians switching to Bluesky? 

Whether you’re in the salon or at your kitchen table, compliance matters. Using products that contain restricted ingredients like HEMA or TPO can be worrying and put professionals at risk. 

Bluesky eliminates those concerns - offering a high-performance, fully compliant alternative that delivers:

• Salon-grade results

• Up to 21 days of chip-free wear

• Vibrant, on-trend colour ranges

• Peace of mind for both professionals and home users