The beauty industry faces a new “ban scare” at least once in a while. Whether it involves certain acids in skincare ingredients or more controversial hair treatments, some regulations often speak of rumors.
The latest issue? Gel nail polish is banned across Europe.
Scrolling through social media platforms, I came across comments expressing concern, such as “Are gel manicures illegal now?” and “Should I just dump my polish collection?”
Being an inquisitive person, I wanted to uncover the truth behind this issue.
As a content writer—and someone who more often than not purchases nail products for my girlfriend—this subject felt very close to home.
After some research on EU regulations, discussing with dermatologists, and even hearing about my girlfriend’s experience with a restricted chemical for one of her products, I found the issue is more nuanced than it appears on the surface.
It’s not just a simple ban. The rules around gel nail polish are part of a changing system shaped by growing health concerns and new regulations. The nail industry is struggling with the limits of using acrylates and looking for alternatives. What I discovered is more complex than a simple yes or no, and it will change how we think about these beauty products.
Is Gel Nail Polish Banned in Europe?
No, gel nail polish is not yet being banned in Europe. That said, it’s not going to be business as usual either. The rumors and headlines stem from a major regulatory reform and increased attention on harmful chemical compounds in products that could pose a health risk. This is not a spontaneous response; rather, this is the culmination of years of scientific evidence, dermatological concerns, and consumer safety issues in the EU.
As we have all experienced, what we are witnessing is a planned tightening of chemicals known as HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate) and Di-HEMA trimethylhexyl dicarbamate. These acrylate compounds together are responsible for the curing properties of gel polish when exposed to UV/LED light.
This is how you can have the perfect strength and shine. These acrylates are becoming increasingly known as sensitizers and allergens, impacting both professionals and consumers.
The Science behind the Ban
Let’s take a look at the health concerns that led the EU to ban these:
- HEMA (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate): Used in a number of gel products, it is associated with allergic contact dermatitis.
- Di-HEMA trimethylhexyl dicarbamate: Will have an even higher potential to cause allergies and is usually found in builder gels.
- TPO (Diphenyl (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide): A photoinitiator for gel UV curing, today restricted due to its toxicity.
These ingredients don’t always have a bad outcome, but for sensitive people, after repeated exposure, an allergy can be triggered for a lifetime.
Common Concerns with Gel Nail Polish
| Risk Factor | What It Means for Users | EU’s Response |
| Acrylate Allergies | Redness, nail damage, swelling | Restriction of specific acrylates |
| Toxic Chemicals (E.g., TPO) | Possible toxicity with overexposure | Restricted/banned in cosmetic formulations |
| UV Lamp Exposure | Potential long-term skin cancer risk | Recommendation: Use SPF/finger guards |
| Nail Weakening | Nails become brittle and thin after removal | Not banned, but dermatologists caution use |
Is Gel Nail Polish Banned in Europe: What is True and What is Not True
It seems like the statement “gel nail polish banned in Europe” implies that raids are happening on salons and gels are being wiped off shelves, but this is not accurate. The EU is rather ensuring that what you are buying is ‘safer.’
So here is what happens: The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) looks at ingredients used to make products.
- If they find an ingredient that is unsafe = restricted, or banned.
- Companies have to reformulate and make updates in order to sell to EU markets.
So, when you walk into a salon now in a city like Paris, Madrid, or Berlin, you will still see gel polishes. They are just safer polishes.
How Will This Impact Nail Salons and Consumers?
From the detailed research I conducted, most salons were open to the recent changes. One technician from Amsterdam said, “Honestly, we saw fewer clients with swollen cuticles since switching to HEMA-free gels. We were worried about the costs, but our clients really liked the safety factor.
For average customers, it means:
- Less Impacts: Potentially having allergic reactions
- Safety: Higher safety due to ‘HEMA-free’ or ‘9 Free’ labels.
- Cost: Some of the premium nail polishes might cost more, but the mass-market gel brands are entering the market, so the cost will come down soon.
Are There Safer Options to Gel Nail Polish?
The silver lining is that, in quick time, the market has risen to the occasion with safer, trendier versions:
- HEMA-Free Gel Polish: Already available in Europe. The Gel Bottle, Semilac, and others are now marketing allergen-free gel polish.
- Dip Powder Nails: Using dip powder nails results in less UV exposure, but you still have to remove them via acetone.
- Hybrid Polishes: The middle ground between gel polish and regular polish, lasting about 10 days.
- Peel-off Gels: A relatively new category, easily removable with no harsh acetone.
My girlfriend recently tried out a peel-off gel. It clearly didn’t last as long as salon gel, but what a relief that it came off so easily (no acetone, no scraping). I can see this as a terrific option.
Hidden Costs of Gel Nail Polish
Beyond allergies, there is yet another layer that is rarely considered—nail health and maintenance costs.
Commonly used gel polish = weak nails. The constant filing and soaking of the nails in acetone strips our natural oils.
Having to use a UV lamp means constant visits to the salon. Gel polish, unlike regular polish, requires specific equipment.
Changes to gel polish mean higher pricing. Safer market options have a price point.
It is worth considering these trade-offs prior to regular gel nail polish usage.
Trend Analysis: What’s Next for Nail Fashion in Europe?
So now on to the fun part. Instead of stopping the gel trend, the EU regulations are driving innovation.
“Clean Beauty” Nails
Expect more brands to be ‘free from’ toxins.
UV-Free Systems
Brands are investigating polishes that cure in the natural environment, sunlight, or UV-free systems (air).
At-Home Kits
DIY gel kits are booming and therefore pose as a cheap option for at-home users.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
The whole sustainability movement is now spilling into nail compounds and products.
Conclusion
I witnessed my girlfriend’s response to a branded gel polish from outside of Europe, so I understand why regulations matter. Gel nail polish is not banned in Europe; it’s just safer now.
The next time she gets a manicure, we will be asking the right questions: Is it HEMA-free? Do you use LED lamps? How do you protect nail health?
Beauty should never come at the cost of health—and with updated EU legislation, the industry is moving towards safe and innovative practices.
So yes, glossy nails are still in vogue—just make sure they are future-proof and safe.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why Are Some Places Banning Gel Nail Polish?
Ans: Gel nail polish is restricted and banned in some areas to limit and avoid harmful exposure to UV light, along with chemicals harmful to the skin, such as dermatologic issues and allergies.
Is Gel Nail Polish Prohibited in Europe?
Ans: Yes, there are bans in place: some European nations are imposing bans or stricter rules on some gel nail polish ingredients that don’t meet EU safety standards.
What Ingredients Have Led to the Ban on Gel Nail Polish in Europe?
Ans: Several chemicals in gel nail polishes, including methacrylate compounds, have various allergies and longer-term health risks. This has led to the EU reviewing its rules.
Can I Still Get Gel Nail Polish in Europe?
Ans: Yes, however, proper formulations will come from brands that comply with the EU cosmetic regulation. Non-compliant brands will either be limited to certain formulations or removed altogether.
Does the Gel Nail Polish Ban Affect Other Countries?
Ans: No, the ban is primarily in Europe. Other countries may allow gel nail polish, but they are tightening regulations in terms of ingredient standards and safety.
Are There Safe Alternatives to Banned Gel Nail Polishes?
Ans: Yes, many brands now produce gel polishes that comply with EU standards that do not contain some of the chemicals considered harmful, and regular and hybrid polishes are now much safer.
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Sources and References:
European Union Bans “Toxic” Ingredient Commonly Found In Gel Nail Polish
