Why Gel Nail Polish Was Banned in Europe — What Shoppers Can Get Instead
As of September 1 2025, the European Union banned gel nail polishes containing the photo‑initiator TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide), a chemical used to harden gel formulas. EU regulators classify TPO as a category 1B carcinogen, mutagen and reproductive toxicant after research showed rats fed high doses experienced reproductive and liver dysfunction.Health experts note that the true risk to casual consumers is unclear, but repeated exposure may be more concerning for nail technicians.The precautionary ban applies to both retail and salon uses. Shoppers need not abandon manicures: brands such as Manucurist, OPI and Aprés have reformulated gel lines without TPO , and regular nail polishes with gel‑like shine offer long‑wearing alternatives.
📚 Table of Contents
1. Why The EU Banned Gel Nail Polish
2. TPO Free Gel Nail Polish Alternatives eu
4. Safe, Available TPO-Free Alternatives
5. Tips for Safe Removal and Application
6. Implications for Consumers and Nail Salons
7. FAQs
🇪🇺 Why The EU Banned Gel Nail Polish
The specific ingredient behind the ban—TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide)
- The gel nail polish ban targets TPO, a photoinitiator now classified by the EU as carcinogenic, mutagenic, and toxic to reproduction (CMR 1B) based on animal studies. Experts flagged similar concerns about DMTA (dimethyl-p-toluidine), leading to its inclusion in the prohibition.
- Takeaway: Awareness of these ingredients is key—salons and consumers must check labels for safety.
The EU’s precautionary, hazard-based regulatory approach
- The EU enacts bans when a substance poses potential harm—without waiting for proof—reflecting a “better-safe-than-sorry” stance. This is a core driver of the gel nail polish ban.
- In contrast, the U.S. applies a risk-based model that balances hazard and real-world exposure before acting.
- Takeaway: EU regulations prioritize preventive action, even amid scientific uncertainty.
Timeline of regulatory changes
- The gel nail polish ban was formalized under Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/877, amending Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009, and took effect on September 1, 2025.
- Takeaway: As of that date, TPO-containing gel polishes are prohibited from sale or use across all EU member states.
🔟 TPO Free Gel Nail Polish Alternatives (TPO-Free Alternatives)
With the EU banning TPO in cosmetics from Sept. 1, 2025, shoppers
increasingly seek TPO Free Gel Nail Polish Alternatives that cure
under LED without this photoinitiator.
This section highlights compliant TPO Free Gel Polish and hybrid
options, grounded in regulator updates and expert explainers, so
you can compare ingredients, curing systems, and durability
confidently.
Apres
Gel Couleur Trio Set
Why it’s here: Pro-grade gel color and system that’s both HEMA-free and TPO-free, curing fast under LED with soak-off removal—ideal for sensitivity-minded salon or at-home users.
Ingredients (key):
- Lucky Envelope + Base Coat + Non-Wipe Top Gel
- System is HEMA-free & TPO-free (brand declaration)
- LED/UV-curable gel resin system; 30-sec LED cure; 10–15-min acetone soak-off (system timing)
- (Photoinitiator package not disclosed by brand)
Chemistry & formulation: Soak-off soft-gel polymer film; LED 30 s / UV 60 s cure across color and top; no HEMA/TPO in base/top lines noted. Designed to minimize common sensitizers while maintaining pro adhesion and gloss.
Performance & durability: Pro routine with base–color–top delivers salon-level gloss and chip resistance; easy soak-off removal. Cure windows: 30 s LED; removal 10–15 min acetone.
Best for: Clients seeking HEMA/TPO-free gels; weekly wearers; those prioritizing fast LED cures and soak-off removal.
💬 User evidence: Consistently positive pro/DIY feedback on color payoff, brush quality, and wear; creator tests report dependable, even application and durable shine.
Rate: 4.6 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| HEMA- & TPO-free system | Full gel routine requires lamp |
| Fast 30 s LED cure; easy soak-off | Ingredient specifics (initiators) undisclosed |
| Pro-level gloss/coverage | Premium price tier |
OPI
Infinite Shine Long Wear Nail Polish
Why it’s here: “Gel-like” long-wear lacquer—no lamp—built on an oligomer + photoinitiator interaction in the ProStay Gloss that crosslinks for extended wear and high shine.
Ingredients (key):
- Oligomer + photoinitiator reaction (in ProStay Gloss)
- 3-step system (ProStay Primer, Color, ProStay Gloss); no UV/LED needed.
Chemistry & formulation: Air-dry lacquer with pre-cured/film-forming technology that locks polymer chains without lamp, removing like regular polish.
Performance & durability: Brand claims up to 11 days of gel-like wear and shine with proper 3-step use.
Best for: Users wanting near-gel longevity without a lamp; classic high-impact crème shades.
💬 User evidence: Editor and retailer tests consistently report multi-day, chip-resistant wear when used as the full system.
Rate: 4.2 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| No-lamp, gel-like system | Best results require all 3 steps |
| Up to 11-day wear (brand claim) | Not a soak-off gel; remove with remover |
| Broad shade range | Dry time > lamp-cured gels |
Manucurist •
Green Flash LED Gel Nail Polish • Vegan
Why it’s here: Plant-based (≈61%), 12-free, HEMA-free LED-curable gel system positioned as a gentler alternative with quick removal.
Ingredients (key):
- 61% plant-based, 12-free, HEMA-free line; LED-optimized system with dedicated base/top; marketed as removal-friendly.
Chemistry & formulation: LED-activated polymer film; system includes treatment-oriented base (e.g., KeraHCE+ tech) to protect nails; no endocrine disruptors per brand.
Performance & durability: Brand claims up to 10–12 days; removal faster than traditional gels.
Best for: Sensitive/ingredient-cautious users wanting LED shine with easier removal and plant-based content.
💬 User evidence: Beauty-editor tests report ~10-day wear with easy, non-damaging removal; some users note technique matters to avoid early tip chipping.
Rate: 3.9 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| HEMA-free, plant-based, 12-free | Requires brand base & top + LED lamp |
| Faster removal vs. classic gels | Shorter wear than hard gels for some |
| Glossy, gel-like finish | Higher price per bottle |
OPI
Nail Lacquer Top Coat
Why it’s here: Classic, high-gloss, quick-dry top coat that protects color and resists chipping; versatile over any lacquer.
Ingredients (key):
- Nitrocellulose-based lacquer top coat; solvent-borne film with plasticizers/UV absorbers (per SDS family).
Chemistry & formulation: Air-dry protective film that levels surface, boosts shine, and shields color.
Performance & durability: Enhances chip resistance and gloss; removes with regular lacquer remover.
Best for: Everyday lacquer users seeking reliable shine and protection.
💬 User evidence: Strong retailer/user consensus on ease and shine across shade families.
Rate: 4.6 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Universally compatible | Not a gel/long-wear hybrid |
| High-gloss finish | Dry time depends on coat thickness |
| Widely available | Needs re-application for longest wear |
OPI
Powder Perfection Step 2 Activator
Why it’s here: Amine activator that accelerates curing of the cyanoacrylate base and initiates the reaction with the dip top—core to the OPI system’s 2+ weeks wear.
Ingredients (key):
- Ethyl acetate, methyl propyl ketone, MIBK, dimethyltolylamine (DMPT).
Chemistry & formulation: Non-light-cured acrylic (PEMA/PMMA) powder + cyanoacrylate base; Step-2 DMPT activator speeds polymerization; top coat seals.
Performance & durability: ~2+ weeks of gel-like shine; no lamp; soak-off removal with filing + acetone.
Best for: Protective overlays on flexible or splitting nails; clients wanting lamp-free longevity.
💬 User evidence: Pros and users highlight strong durability; note standard acetone soak-off protocol.
Rate: 4.3 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Lamp-free extended wear | Uses ketones/DMPT (check salon ventilation/Prop 65) |
| Hard, protective overlay | Removal takes time (file + soak) |
| High-shine finish | Pot contamination risk if dipping multiple clients |
KIARA
SKY Dip Manicure Nail Liquid Essentials
Why it’s here: Well-known dip system bundle (Bond, Base, Seal Protect/Activator, Top) with clear ingredient transparency for Seal Protect and Top.
Ingredients (key):
- Seal Protect / Activator: Ethyl acetate, pentanone, MIBK, N,N-dimethyl-p-toluidine (DMPT); Prop 65 warning posted.
- Top: Ethyl-2-cyanoacrylate, polymethyl methacrylate.
Chemistry & formulation: Lamp-free dip polymerization (cyanoacrylate base + activator) creating a hard acrylic film; marketed as MMA-free.
Performance & durability: Multi-week wear with high gloss; file + acetone removal (typical for dips).
Best for: Users wanting strong, lightweight overlays without UV/LED.
💬 User evidence: Popular among DIY/pro dip communities; note to follow proper prep and sealed tips for chip resistance.
Rate: 4.3 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Full Steps 1–4 bundle | DMPT/MIBK present; heed ventilation/Prop 65 |
| Weeks of lamp-free wear | Removal is file + soak |
| Clear ingredient pages | Technique-sensitive (seal free edge) |
Sally
Hansen Miracle Gel™
Why it’s here: Two-step no-lamp system; top coat contains photoinitiator + oligomer that cures with natural light to harden the color layer.
Ingredients (key):
- Air-dry lacquer with photoinitiator/oligomer in Top
- activates under ambient light.
Chemistry & formulation: Film-forming hybrid that crosslinks via daylight; removes like regular polish.
Performance & durability: “Gel-like” volume and shine; chip-resistant wear with proper two-step use.
Best for: Lamp-free users seeking elevated wear and glossy finish.
💬 User evidence: Frequently recommended in long-wear roundups for durability without a lamp.
Rate: 4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| No lamp; natural-light activation | Not a soak-off gel |
| Bulky, gel-like shine | Wear varies by prep/habits |
| Easy removal | Works best with Miracle Gel colors |
Essie
Gel Couture Top Coat
Why it’s here: 2-step, no-lamp system with salon-gel-like shine and a curve-hugging brush; removes with standard remover.
Ingredients (key):
- Air-dry film-former
- UV absorber components in line
- designed specifically for Gel Couture colors.
Chemistry & formulation: Long-wear lacquer top that self-levels for high-gloss; no UV/LED needed.
Performance & durability: Extensively cited by editors for ~10–15 days of chip-resistant wear when used as a system.
Best for: Fast, lamp-free manicures with premium shine.
💬 User evidence: Repeated “best long-lasting polish” pick across major outlets.
Rate: 4.7 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| No lamp; glossy, durable finish | Optimized for Gel Couture colors |
| Widely editor-approved longevity | Not a true gel/soak-off |
| Easy removal | May require re-top at ~1 week |
ISDIN
Si-Nails
Why it’s here: Serum-pen with cationic hyaluronic acid, silanediol salicylate (organic silicon), and Pistacia lentiscus gum; clinically positioned to improve nail density/strength with fast absorption.
Ingredients (key):
- Silanediol salicylate,
- Pistacia lentiscus gum,
- cationic hyaluronic acid; formaldehyde-free treatment.
Chemistry & formulation: Pen-applied serum forms a conditioning film and delivers silicon + humectants to reinforce keratin and reduce brittleness.
Performance & durability: Brand reports visible improvements in ~14 days with daily use; leaves a soft sheen under or without polish.
Best for: Thin, brittle, peeling nails; fragrance-averse users preferring a non-lacquer strengthener.
💬 User evidence: Frequently selected as a top strengthener by editors/test panels for quick absorption and strengthening over weeks.
Rate: 4.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Serum pen; fast-absorbing | Requires consistent daily use |
| Evidence-led ingredient stack | Not a glossy “top coat” finish |
| Works under/without color | Higher price per mL |
Probelle Nail
Strengthener and growth
Why it’s here: Formaldehyde-free strengthening lacquer featuring hexanal + AHAs (plus vitamins B5/C) to reduce splits and improve flexibility and shine.
Ingredients (key):
- Hexanal, AHAs,
- vitamin B5,
- vitamin C; marketed as 10+-free.
Chemistry & formulation: Air-dry clear treatment forming a protective film while hexanal crosslinks keratin amino groups (hardness) and AHAs condition plate/surface.
Performance & durability: Worn alone or as base; improves chip resistance and reduces peeling over several weeks of re-application. Independent consumer tests often include Probelle among top performers.
Best for: Post-gel/acrylic recovery; peeling/splitting nails seeking a lacquer-style strengthener with gloss.
💬 User evidence: Multiple editorial roundups and retailer feedback highlight meaningful strengthening with regular use.
Rate: 4.3 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Formaldehyde-free; 10+-free | Requires maintenance schedule (re-coat) |
| Glossy clear finish (base or solo) | Results build over weeks, not days |
| Hexanal + AHA conditioning | Scent typical of lacquer systems |
📊 Comparison Table
| Product Name | Without Bulbs | Claimed Usage | Independent Testing Tips | Exclusions | Pros | Cons | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apres Gel Couleur Trio Set | ❌ | 30 sec LED cure, 10–15 min soak-off | Smooth application, pro gloss confirmed by creators | HEMA-free, TPO-free | High shine, safe for sensitive users, fast LED cure | Lamp required, photoinitiators undisclosed, premium price | $28.98 |
| OPI Infinite Shine System | ✅ | Up to 11-day wear (3-step) | Editors confirm multi-day chip resistance | No UV/LED, not a soak-off | Gel-like gloss without lamp, wide shade range | Full system needed, slower dry vs. lamp gels | $14.49 |
| Manucurist Green Flash | ❌ | 10–12 day wear, fast removal | Beauty tests confirm gentle removal, gloss retention | HEMA-free, 12-free, 61% plant-based | LED shine, fast soak-off, gentler ingredients | Needs system + LED lamp, shorter wear for some | $19.00 |
| OPI Nail Lacquer Top Coat | ✅ | Chip-resistant lacquer top coat | High shine verified by users & retailers | No lamp or gel | Quick-dry, universal use, glossy | Needs frequent reapplication, not a hybrid gel | $10.79 |
| OPI Powder Perfection Activator | ✅ | ~2+ weeks durability | Pro tips: use acetone soak + file | Not light-cured, DMPT present | Long wear, strong overlay | Ventilation needed, removal takes time | N/A |
| KIARA SKY Dip Kit | ✅ | Multi-week wear (dip system) | Popular among DIY/pros with proper prep | MMA-free; DMPT/MIBK included | Clear ingredients, lightweight but hard finish | Sensitive to technique, Prop 65 caution | $42.00 |
| Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat | ✅ | Gel-like shine, no-lamp activation | Works best with same-brand colors | No soak-off, natural light only | Glossy, easy removal, no UV needed | Wear varies, best as system | $9.24 |
| Essie Gel Couture Top Coat | ✅ | 10–15 days wear, no lamp | Highly rated in beauty editor picks | No lamp; not true soak-off gel | Curve-hugging brush, glossy finish | May require retouching at 1 week | $9.48 |
| ISDIN Si-Nails Serum | ✅ | Nail strength visible in ~14 days | Clinically backed, no lacquer | No lacquer/shine; not a polish | Strengthens thin nails, fast absorption | Daily use needed, higher price per mL | $39.00 |
| Probelle Nail Strengthener | ✅ | Week-over-week strengthening | Editors praise consistent improvements | Formaldehyde-free, 10+-free | Glossy base or solo finish, AHA+Hexanal | Needs re-coating schedule, lacquer smell | $14.99 |
🧪 Safe, Available TPO-Free Alternatives
Reformulation Strategies and Alternative Photoinitiators
Many brands now use safer photoinitiators to align with the gel nail polish ban while preserving performance. Common replacements include:
- TPO-L (Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate)
- BAPO (Bis-Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphine Oxide)
-
Hydroxycyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone
These alternatives cure effectively under UV/LED light without the risks associated with TPO.
The takeaway: salons and shoppers can still enjoy glossy, durable finishes—safely.
🏷️ TPO Gel Polish Brands
Well-known, trusted brands have already embraced TPO-free formulas, such as:
- Manucurist (Green Flash™ LED gel polish)
- Aprés Nail (Gel Couleur)
-
OPI’s GelColor Intelli-Gel™ System
These options keep your manicure routine both chic and compliant under the gel nail polish ban.
📌 Tips for Safe Removal and Application
Protect your skin and nails with these simple steps:
- Apply sunscreen on hands and use a cuticle barrier (e.g. Vaseline) before UV/LED curing
-
Take regular breaks between manicures and watch for any signs of irritation or damage
These practices help maintain nail health and peace of mind.
🏪 Implications for Consumers and Nail Salons
Supply Chain & Salon Impact
- Manufacturers must reformulate or halt distribution of TPO-containing gel polishes, while salons must dispose of remaining stock immediately.
-
These changes may disrupt supply chains, leading to shortages and financial strain—especially for small, independent salons.
Takeaway: Salons should proactively source TPO-free products to stay compliant and maintain service continuity.
Consumer Guidance & Health Perspective
- Consumers, particularly those who are pregnant or trying to conceive, are encouraged to request TPO-free formulations and ask salons about ingredients.
-
Experts note that while human risk data is limited, typical exposure levels are much lower than those used in animal studies—so occasional users likely face minimal concern.
Takeaway: Gel manicures remain accessible—just opt for safer, TPO-free alternatives when possible.
European regulators didn’t outlaw gel manicures outright; they
targeted
TPO, a photoinitiator used to cure gel
polish that was classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to
reproduction. The EU ban reflects caution after animal studies
suggested the compound may cause infertility but there’s no
definitive evidence of harm in humans.Consumers don’t need to
abandon gel nails; they can simply ask for TPO‑free products, and
many brands already offer them. Alternatively, long‑wear regular
polishes with gel‑like shine such as KBShimmer,
Chanel, Manucurist and
OPI Intelli‑Gel provide salon‑quality results
without the banned ingredient. By choosing
TPO‑free or long‑wear formulas,
shoppers can enjoy glossy, durable manicures without the safety
concerns.
FAQ
❓ Why is the EU banning gel nail polish?
❓ Is gel nail polish toxic?
❓ What is the alternative to gel nail polish?
❓ What gel polish does not contain TPO?
❓ What is TPO in gel polish?
❓ What gel polish have tpo?
❓ What nail polish brands have tpo
❓ Can Gel Nail Polish be Banned in the US Soon
❓ Is TPO in OPI Nail Polish
❓ CND Shellac Ingredients TPO Photoinitiator ?
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