In recent months, people have been talking more and more about the gel polish ban in the European Union. To be precise, the EU will not ban gel polish itself but the ingredient TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide), which many gel polishes contain. The change will take effect on September 1, 2025, and it will strongly impact both nail professionals and consumers. In this article, we explain in detail what the regulation means, why the EU introduced it, and how it will affect the world of nail care.
What is TPO and why will the EU ban it?
TPO is a photoinitiator that makes gel polish cure quickly under UV or LED lamps. Nail professionals have used this ingredient for years because it provides long-lasting, reliable manicures.
The European Union classified TPO as a CMR category 1B substance, meaning it may harm reproduction. Because of this, the EU Cosmetics Regulation (1223/2009) will prohibit its use in cosmetics. On September 1, 2025, the EU will place TPO on the prohibited ingredients list (Annex II).
This decision does not mean that TPO creates an immediate health danger. Instead, the EU introduced this rule as a preventive measure to protect consumer safety.
gel polish from inventory
When does the ban take effect?
- Manufacturers and salons may still sell and use gel polishes containing TPO until August 31, 2025.
- From September 1, 2025, it will be prohibited to sell, distribute, or use them in salons.
This means that salons, wholesalers, and online stores must remove TPO-containing gel polishes from their inventory by that date.
What does this mean for nail professionals?
The regulation brings major changes to salon operations:
- Inventory check: every nail technician must review their stock and identify products containing TPO.
- Switch to new products: suppliers are already working on TPO-free formulas, so professionals should begin transitioning to these as soon as possible.
- Informing clients: it is important to reassure clients that this does not mean the end of gel manicures, only a switch to safer ingredients.
gel manicure 2025
What does this mean for clients?
For customers, the change may initially sound alarming since many hear: “gel polish is being banned.” In reality, the situation is much simpler:
- Gel manicures will continue to be available.
- The only difference is that TPO will be replaced with other, safer ingredients.
- The user experience, durability, and shine will remain the same.
What alternatives exist to TPO?
Gel polish manufacturers are not standing still: they are already developing and launching TPO-free products. Examples of alternative photoinitiators include:
- TPO-L
- Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate
These substances are equally effective in the curing process while complying with the new EU regulations.
How should nail professionals prepare for the change?
- Review your stock: identify which products contain TPO.
- Check with manufacturers: ask your suppliers which lines are TPO-free.
- Test new formulas: try out TPO-free gel polishes so you can confidently recommend them to clients.
- Inform your clients: explain that the change is for their safety.
TPO-free gel polish collection
Why is this regulation important?
The EU’s decision is not intended to make the work of nail technicians more difficult, but to protect long-term health. Chemicals used in the beauty industry are constantly being evaluated, and if a substance is found to be potentially harmful, it is removed from the market in the interest of consumer protection.
This regulation reinforces that the industry can adapt and always puts client safety first.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Gel Polish Ban
1. Is gel polish being banned from 2025?
No, only gel polishes containing TPO will be banned. Gel manicures will continue to be available in TPO-free versions.
2. What is TPO?
TPO is a photoinitiator that ensures gel polishes cure quickly under UV/LED light.
3. Is TPO dangerous for users?
TPO does not pose an immediate risk, but the EU decided on the ban as a preventive safety measure.
4. When will the ban take effect?
From September 1, 2025, it will be prohibited to sell or use TPO-containing products in the EU.
5. What alternatives exist to TPO?
Manufacturers are already working on TPO-free formulas, such as TPO-L and other photoinitiators.
6. What should I do as a nail professional?
Review your stock, check with your supplier, and switch to TPO-free products before the deadline.
7. Will the quality of gel manicures change?
No, TPO-free alternatives will be just as durable and shiny as the old formulas.
Gel Polish Regulation in 2025 – Summary
The gel polish ban in 2025 actually refers to the withdrawal of the ingredient TPO, not the end of gel manicures. The goal of the change is to enhance consumer safety and protect health. Nail professionals should prepare in advance: switch to TPO-free products, inform clients, and ensure that service quality remains unchanged. In the future, we can continue to enjoy long-lasting, shiny, and elegant gel manicures – just with safer formulas.
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