The development, led by Dr. Hirotoshi Umemoto and CEO Dr. Ryohei Mori, seeks to replace petroleum-based resins with materials sourced from wood waste and other organic biomass. While current formulations contain between 22% and 25% bio-derived components, the team plans to increase this ratio as they expand their reach in both domestic and international markets. The shift addresses growing health concerns surrounding traditional UV-cured polishes, specifically regarding TPO, which faces marketing bans in Europe, and HEMA, a known allergen that can cause skin reactions.
In section Releases
Green Science Alliance Launches Plant-Based, TPO and HEMA-Free Gel Polish
Kawanishi-based Green Science Alliance is challenging conventional cosmetic formulations by introducing a gel nail polish derived from plant biomass. Launching September 17, the product eliminates TPO and HEMA—substances frequently associated with reproductive toxicity and severe skin irritation—marking a rare shift toward sustainable, safer beauty alternatives in the global market.
Beyond removing TPO and HEMA, the company has also excluded TMPTA from the polish. The ingredient is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a Group 2B substance and by European regulations as a potential carcinogen. By targeting these specific chemicals, Green Science Alliance aims to provide a viable option for users with sensitive skin. This initiative aligns with the company’s broader research into biodegradable plastics and resins, a focus recently highlighted on the cover of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s journal, RSC Sustainability.
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