HEMA & TPO in Nail Products: Why We Choose to Go Without

When it comes to gel nails, ingredients matter. At We Do Nails, we’re passionate about creating products that are not only high-performing but also safer for both nail techs and clients. Two ingredients that often spark questions are HEMA and TPO — and here’s why we’ve chosen to leave them out of our formulas.

✨ What is HEMA?

HEMA (2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate) is a common ingredient in many gels, bases, and polishes. It helps the product stick to the natural nail, but it’s also a known allergen. Prolonged exposure can cause:

Skin irritation
Allergic reactions (itchiness, redness, swelling)
Long-term sensitivity that can prevent clients from ever wearing gel again

Because of its small molecular size, HEMA can easily penetrate skin if product touches the cuticle or sidewalls — which is why allergic reactions are becoming more common in the nail industry.

💡 What is TPO?

TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) is a photoinitiator used to help gel cure under UV/LED lamps. While effective it has just been banned in Europe as, amongst other things, it’s been linked to:

Skin sensitivity and allergies
Environmental concerns, as it’s not the cleanest ingredient for long-term use

🚫 Why We’re HEMA & TPO Free

We believe beautiful nails shouldn’t come at the cost of health. That’s why our gels and polishes are formulated to be 14-Free, including free from HEMA and TPO.

What that means for you:

Safer for Clients – especially those with sensitivities or allergies
Safer for Nail Techs – who are exposed daily to products
Peace of Mind – performance and wear without the risk of harmful reactions

🌿 Performance Without Compromise

Some might think “free from” means weaker results — but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Our gels are:

Long-lasting and chip resistant
Smooth in viscosity for easy application
Highly pigmented for full coverage
Paired with our perfect application brush for streak-free, salon-quality nails

💕 The Future of Safer Nails

The nail industry is evolving, and clients are more ingredient-conscious than ever. By choosing HEMA & TPO free products, you’re choosing wellness, safety, and professional performance in one bottle.

At We Do Nails, we’re proud to be part of that shift. Because nails should look good, feel good, and be good for you.

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