Why Gel Nail Polish Is Banned In The UK But Not The US!
- Cilverbow Botanicals Blog
- Sep 2
- 3 min read
If you’ve been following beauty industry news lately, you may have heard about a major shift in European nail salons: as of today, gel nail polishes containing TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide) are officially banned across the EU. This decision is sending ripples through the global nail community — but what does it mean for you, and why isn't the U.S. following suit?
Let’s break it down.
💅 What Is TPO — and Why Was It in Gel Polish?
TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide) is a photo-initiator, a chemical that helps gel polish harden quickly when exposed to UV or LED light. It’s responsible for that ultra-glossy, rock-hard finish we associate with gel manicures, and it drastically reduces drying time.
Sounds great, right?
Well… not quite.
⚠️ Why the EU Banned TPO
European health and safety regulators have been keeping a close eye on cosmetic ingredients, especially those that come into direct contact with the skin or can be absorbed through the nail bed.
Recent research has raised concerns about TPO’s potential as a skin sensitizer — meaning it can cause allergic reactions in some users. In more serious cases, prolonged exposure has been linked to concerns around hormone disruption and other long-term health effects.
As a result, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and European Commission have now taken precautionary action, banning the use of TPO in consumer cosmetics starting September 2025.
Why the U.S. Hasn't Banned It (Yet)
Unlike Europe, the United States does not require pre-market approval for cosmetic ingredients, and regulatory changes often move more slowly. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) generally only intervenes after substantial evidence of harm is established — which hasn’t officially happened with TPO here.
So, for now, TPO-containing gel polishes are still widely available in U.S. salons and retail stores. That said, many clean beauty brands and natural nail salons (like us!) are already choosing to go TPO-free voluntarily.
🌿 What This Means for You at CilverBow Botanicals
At CilverBow Botanicals, we’ve always prioritized natural nail health and non-toxic beauty. While we’ve offered gel alternatives in the past, we've been moving away from traditional gel polishes for exactly these kinds of reasons.
Here’s what we’re doing:
✅ No TPO or harmful chemicals in any of our products
✅ Natural nail services with breathable, plant-based polishes
✅ LED-free dry time options for sensitive clients
✅ Continued monitoring of ingredient safety and transparency
We believe you shouldn’t have to choose between beautiful nails and your well-being.
💡 Thinking of Switching to Natural Nail Care?
If you’re used to the convenience of gel but worried about ingredients like TPO, you’re not alone. We offer a curated selection of high-performance, long-wear natural polishes that give you a glossy finish without UV exposure or harsh chemicals.
We’re happy to chat about clean beauty alternatives and help you make a safe, stylish switch.
💬 Let’s Talk (561)907-6999 | Email us: Cilverbowbotanicals@gmail.com
Have questions about ingredients in your nail products? Want a custom consultation for your nail health? Reach out to us or book a natural nail appointment today — your nails (and your body) will thank you.
CilverBow Botanicals Nail Salon - Rooted in beauty, grounded in nature. 🌱
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