Gel Nail Polish Banned in the EU: What You Need to Know

Gel nail polish banned—this headline is making waves across the beauty industry as the European Union takes a bold step to regulate toxic ingredients in cosmetics. Starting September 1, 2025, a key chemical widely used in gel nail polishes has been banned across Europe. This move impacts nail salons, technicians, beauty retailers, and consumers who love glossy, long-lasting manicures. But why did this ban happen? What does it mean for the beauty industry, and what are the alternatives? Let’s break it down.

Why Was Gel Nail Polish Banned in the EU?

The EU’s ban focuses on Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO), a chemical commonly used in gel nail polish as a photoinitiator. Studies show that TPO may pose serious health risks, including:

• Carcinogenic effects (cancer-causing potential)

• Mutagenic risks (ability to alter DNA)

• Reproductive toxicity (possible fertility issues)

• Skin sensitization and allergies

The European Commission, through its Omnibus VII regulation, officially classified TPO as unsafe for cosmetic use. From now on, products containing this ingredient cannot be manufactured, imported, marketed, or sold within EU countries.

Impact of the Gel Nail Polish Ban

This gel nail polish banned rule affects multiple layers of the beauty industry:

• Nail salons must remove TPO-based products from their inventory.

• Technicians will need to switch to alternative, safer gel polish brands.

• Beauty retailers face penalties and fines of up to €22,000 per violation if they fail to comply.

• Consumers may notice some of their favorite brands either disappearing from shelves or being reformulated.

With thousands of salons across Europe dependent on gel polish services, this is a major disruption—but also a turning point toward safer beauty standards.

What Are the Alternatives to TPO in Gel Nail Polish?

The ban does not mean the end of gel manicures. Instead, it paves the way for TPO-free formulas that are safer for both customers and professionals. Some alternatives include:

• Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO): A widely recognized and less toxic photoinitiator.

• Other new photoinitiators currently being developed with lower toxicity profiles.

• Hybrid nail systems that mimic gel’s durability without using harmful chemicals.

Many leading beauty brands are already investing in safer innovations, making it likely that TPO-free gels will soon dominate the global market.

A Precautionary Move: What Experts Say

According to dermatologists, the gel nail polish banned decision is primarily a precautionary measure. While there are not yet large-scale human studies directly linking TPO to severe health problems, animal studies and toxicity data raise enough concerns to justify strict action.

Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist at DermOnDemand, explained:

“The European Union is banning it out of caution. Even though large-scale human studies are lacking, the potential risks were enough to warrant stricter regulation.”

This highlights the EU’s proactive stance on consumer safety—protecting users before long-term harm becomes evident.

Could the Gel Nail Polish Ban Go Global?

Currently, the ban is limited to the European Union. However, Europe has often set global beauty trends and influenced regulatory standards in the past. When the EU tightens rules, other regions—including the United States, UK, and Asia—tend to follow suit over time.

Already, some international brands are reformulating their gel products to be compliant with EU standards. This could accelerate the spread of safer formulas worldwide, eventually leading to a global shift in nail care regulations.

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

If you’re a fan of gel manicures, here’s what you need to know:

1. Safer Choices Ahead: Expect nail salons to stock new, reformulated TPO-free gel polishes.

2. Check Labels Carefully: Always review ingredient lists to ensure the product is compliant.

3. Don’t Panic: The ban is about prevention, not immediate danger. Occasional past use of TPO-based gels is unlikely to cause harm, but switching to safer options is wise.

4. Influence on Trends: This ban may inspire eco-friendly and non-toxic beauty movements to grow stronger across the globe.

The Business Side: Challenges and Opportunities

The ban creates both hurdles and opportunities for the nail and beauty industry:

• Challenges:

  • Disposal of existing TPO-based stock.

  • Additional compliance costs for salons and suppliers.

  • Possible increase in prices for safer formulas.

• Opportunities:

  • Innovation in nail technology.

  • Growth of “clean beauty” brands.

  • Improved consumer trust in EU-based products.

Beauty companies that act quickly to develop TPO-free solutions may gain a competitive edge, both in Europe and beyond.

Final Thoughts: Gel Nail Polish Banned – A Turning Point for Beauty

The gel nail polish banned in the EU ruling marks a significant milestone in cosmetic safety. While it may cause short-term disruption, the long-term benefits are clear—healthier, safer, and more sustainable beauty products for everyone.

As global attention shifts to chemical safety in cosmetics, this move could spark a worldwide change in how nail care products are formulated and regulated. For consumers, it’s a reminder to stay informed, choose wisely, and embrace the shift toward toxin-free beauty.