The UK gel nail ban has started - here’s what it actually means and how your manicure might change
We asked nail experts to break down everything you need to know about the new legislation
If you regularly get gel manicures, or enjoy them as an occasional treat, news of a gel nail ban coming into force in the UK might sound alarming.
The legislation, which specifically prohibits the sale of products containing TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide), officially kicked in on Saturday, August 15th, and will impact nail salons across the country.
But what does the ban actually involve? Does this mean gel manicures are bad for you? And what changes can we expect if we book a nail appointment now the legislation has started to be enforced? We've asked nail experts to break it down and clear up any confusion.
Everything you need to know about the UK gel nail ban
The good news is, as long as you visit a reputable nail salon, the legwork of compliance will be done on your behalf. Although it's being branded as a 'gel nail ban', only one particular ingredient, TPO, is being taken off the market.
And while the roll-out begins 15th August 2026, from which point manufacturers cannot bring out products containing TPO, salons have plenty of time to phase these polishes out, with a hard stop on purchasing TPO products from 14 February 2027.
Many salons have already moved to TPO-free formulations well in advance - while some never used them in the first place. Juanita Huber-Millet, Founder and Creative Director of luxury salon brand Townhouse, where the products used are TPO-free, explains:
“Moving away from ingredients like TPO isn’t a reaction to regulation - it’s how we’ve always approached innovation. We’ve invested heavily in developing TPO-free systems that meet our standards without compromise. Our clients should never have to choose between exceptional results and peace of mind.”
What is TPO and is it bad for you?
One of the biggest questions raised by the ban is, of course, what is TPO - and have we been putting ourselves at risk by having gel manicures until this point?
In plain terms, TPO is a photo-initiator, so it aids the UV curing process, hence its inclusion in many nail treatments including gel and BIAB nails. However, there have been questions raised about its potential to sensitise and, following animal studies, it was classed as a Category 1B reproductive toxicant.
It is important to note that this testing involved high, repeated oral doses of the chemical being ingested by animals, versus the low amounts applied topically to your nails. Either way, most experts agree the removal is a sensible precautionary measure, because there are alternative photo-initiating ingredients available that don't carry these concerns.
"There's no reason to cancel your appointments or worry that something has suddenly become unsafe," Danielle Louise, Beauty Expert on booking platform Fresha explains. "These kinds of updates happen more often than people realise. As new scientific evidence becomes available, regulations are reviewed, and brands adapt their formulas. It's one of the ways the beauty industry continues to raise standards."
How can I make sure my manicure is TPO free?
All 14-day Manicure polishes and kits are TPO and HEMA-free and this starter kit contains everything you need to create long lasting, glossy nails at home.
This paint-on air-drying varnish is free from TPO, as with all Townhouse products, and we love the milky, chic pink shade for fingers and a DIY pedi.
Known as a 'healthy' nail brand, Manucurist polishes have all been TPO-free for over six years, and this green flash kit combines gel-like shine and longevity with gentle removal.
As with all beauty treatments, it's all about choosing a service provider that you trust, explains Louise. "One of the best things you can do is choose a reputable salon that uses recognised professional products and follows good hygiene practices. If you're ever unsure about the products being used, don't be afraid to ask. A professional nail technician should be happy to explain which brands they use and answer any questions you have."
If you paint your nails at home, rather than in a salon, look for polishes labelled TPO-Free to be absolutely certain for the moment. Once the ban has been fully enforced in February 2027, all brands must cease selling products including the ingredient, so you shouldn't come across any TPO polishes for sale after that point.
Will gel manicures change?
Safety concerns aside, you may be wondering how TPO-free formulas perform. Happily, nail industry innovation means there are alternative photo-initiators already being widely used, and you shouldn't notice any changes.
Both experts we spoke with agreed customers were very unlikely to notice a difference in the look or longevity of their manicure. All your favourite colours and finishes should still be available to choose from, and nail technicians can apply and use TPO-free products in exactly the same way as those containing the ingredient.
