EU Bans Chemical in Gel Nail Polishes, Raising Safety Concerns for Salons
Gel manicures are popular among many for their long-lasting and chip-free finish. However, starting September 1, 2025, the European Union has decided to ban a chemical commonly found in these products, leaving both salons and customers with questions about safety and alternatives.
The chemical in question is Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide, or TPO. It’s used in gel polishes to help them harden quickly under UV light, giving a glossy appearance.
The EU’s decision comes after various studies that suggested exposure to TPO might be linked to fertility issues. While these studies mainly involved animals, the EU is known for taking a cautious approach to cosmetic safety.
Regulators have classified TPO as a potential carcinogen and a substance that may harm reproduction. This classification automatically leads to a ban on its use in cosmetics, including nail products.
Beginning in September, nail salons across the EU must stop using any products containing TPO, even items they may have purchased before the ban.
Gel vs. Regular Nail Polish
A key difference between gel and traditional nail polish is how they are applied. Regular polish dries naturally over time, while gel polish requires a special UV or LED lamp to speed up the drying process, which can take only 60 to 90 seconds.
During gel manicures, these lamps, while effective, emit UV rays that have been associated with skin damage. However, research on the actual risk of cancer from these salon lamps remains unclear.
Even older products with TPO will be considered illegal for use in salons after the ban date. Currently, this restriction applies only in the EU.
On a brighter note for nail art enthusiasts, gel nails aren’t going away. Many brands are already working on new formulas that replace TPO with safer alternatives such as TPO-L and BAPO.
As the deadline approaches, both salons and customers will need to adapt to this change, but rest assured, the world of gel nails will continue to thrive.
