Marrakech – The Moroccan Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AMMPS) has announced a ban on nail products containing Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO).
The prohibition covers the marketing, manufacturing, importation, distribution, and use of all cosmetic products containing this substance.
In an official statement, AMMPS informed health professionals, beauty industry stakeholders, and consumers that nail polishes and gels containing TPO are now strictly prohibited in Morocco.
This decision follows a comprehensive evaluation of available scientific data and international standards regarding this substance.
The agency explained that TPO, which functions as a photo-initiator in certain UV-curing nail gels and polishes, presents a concerning toxicological profile.
Studies have revealed that repeated exposure to this substance could lead to health risks, particularly potential toxic effects.
“The beauty industry professionals must immediately cease using products containing TPO and ensure these are no longer offered to clients,” stated AMMPS in its communication.
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Consumers are also urged to carefully check the composition of products they use, especially nail polishes and gels, to verify their compliance with current safety standards.
The European Union has also taken action against TPO, with Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/877 prohibiting the use of Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide in cosmetic products effective September 1.
The EU decision, based on Article 15 of the Cosmetics Regulation, has prompted questions from stakeholders about scope, professional use applications, and implementation across member states. The commission has issued guidance to ensure consistent enforcement.
This measure aligns with AMMPS’s mission to ensure health monitoring, guarantee the safety of health products available in the national market, and protect public health.
The ban also helps align the national market with international best practices regarding cosmetic product safety and regulation.
The Moroccan agency has requested all concerned stakeholders to take necessary measures to disseminate and apply this information notice.
This ban, announced on Saturday, directly protects Moroccan consumers from exposure to harmful substances in everyday cosmetic products.
