Why Europe Just Banned Gel Nail Polish—and What It Means for You

If you’re someone who swears by that glossy, chip-proof gel manicure, here’s some news that may change the way you think about your nails. Starting September 1, 2025, the European Union officially banned TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide), a chemical commonly found in gel nail polishes.

This move has left salons scrambling, beauty lovers a bit worried, and brands rethinking their formulas. But what’s really behind the ban—and should you be concerned? Let’s break it down.

What Exactly Happened?

For years, TPO has been one of the “secret ingredients” that gives gel polish its magic. It helps the polish harden under UV or LED lamps, leaving that shiny, durable finish we all love.

But after reviewing animal studies, EU regulators classified TPO as CMR1B—which basically means it’s considered a possible carcinogen and could also affect reproduction. Even though scientists don’t yet have strong evidence about what it does to humans, the EU decided to play it safe.

As of now:

• All gel polishes containing TPO are banned in EU countries, plus places like Norway and Switzerland.
• Salons had to pull existing stock immediately—no grace period, no “use up what’s left.”
• It’s a full stop until brands reformulate with safer alternatives.

It’s important to note that this decision isn’t because of an outbreak of health problems—it’s a precautionary step, rooted in the “better safe than sorry” philosophy.

How This Impacts Brands and Salons

If you’ve had your nails done with big-name brands like OPI, CND, or boutique gel lines, chances are TPO was in the mix. Now, those companies need to reformulate quickly to keep selling in Europe.

Some brands are already ahead of the game. Manucurist and Aprés Nail, for example, have been marketing TPO-free gel systems for a while. OPI is rolling out its Intelli-Gel™ line as a safer option. Expect to see more labels proudly saying “TPO-free” in the months ahead.

For salons, though, the change is a bit painful. They’ve had to toss expensive products overnight and order new stock—something smaller nail bars might struggle to afford.

Why the U.S. Isn’t Following (Yet)

Here’s where it gets interesting: in the U.S., nothing has changed. The FDA hasn’t banned TPO, and American salons can still legally use gel polishes that contain it.

That said, the EU’s move often sets the tone for global beauty trends. Many brands want consistency across markets, so you might see them phasing out TPO voluntarily in the U.S., too. And with growing consumer awareness, “toxic-free” could become a bigger selling point.

So while your next appointment in New York, LA, or Miami won’t look any different for now, the writing may be on the wall.

What You Can Do as a Nail Lover

If gel polish is part of your self-care routine, don’t panic—this doesn’t mean you have to give it up forever. Here are a few simple things you can do:

1. Look for TPO-free labels – Brands like Manucurist, Aprés Nail, and OPI’s new Intelli-Gel™ are safer bets.
2. Give your nails a breather – Skipping gels every once in a while helps reduce exposure to chemicals and gives your natural nails time to recover.
3. Protect your skin – If you’re worried about UV curing lamps, wear fingerless gloves or apply sunscreen before your appointment.
4. Pay attention to nail health – If gels start lifting, you risk bacterial infections (aka those dreaded “greenies”). Always go to a trained tech who knows proper removal.

The Bigger Picture

This ban isn’t just about one chemical—it’s about how regulators, brands, and consumers weigh the risks and rewards of beauty. For the EU, health won out. For the U.S., the conversation is still unfolding.

What it means for you depends on where you live and how much you value long-lasting polish versus potential health risks. One thing’s for sure: the beauty industry is shifting, and the future of gel manicures will look different than it has for the past decade.