Gel manicures are not disappearing from British nail salons overnight, despite the alarming headlines. Instead, a new UK rule targeting a specific ingredient used in some gel products has come into force, leaving beauty lovers wondering whether their favourite glossy, chip-resistant manicure is about to change.
From 15 August 2026, products containing trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide, better known as TPO, can no longer be newly placed on the market in Great Britain. The important distinction is that gel nails themselves have not been banned. Many brands have already reformulated their products without TPO, meaning you can still book a gel manicure–but it is worth checking what your salon is using.
What the New UK Gel Nail Rules Mean
TPO is a photoinitiator used in some UV- and LED-cured nail products. In simple terms, it helps gel formulas harden when exposed to a curing lamp. The ingredient has faced regulatory scrutiny because the EU classified it as a category 1B reproductive toxicant. The EU subsequently prohibited TPO in cosmetics from 1 September 2025.
Great Britain has followed with its own cosmetics regulation. From 15 August 2026, manufacturers and importers cannot newly place TPO-containing cosmetic products on the GB market. Products legally placed on the market before that date can remain available during the transition period.
Another date to remember is14 February 2027. After this point, distributors will no longer be able to make TPO-containing products available for professionals to purchase, according to guidance from the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA). The CTPA also said nail professionals may continue using stock they already own after that date, but they cannot buy additional TPO-containing products from distributors.
Can You Still Get Gel Nails?
Yes. The new rules do not outlaw gel manicures.
Instead, salons are expected to move towards TPO-free formulations. In fact, many manufacturers have already reformulated their products, so customers may notice little difference in the finished manicure.
If you are concerned, ask your nail technician whether the gel products they use are TPO-free. This is a much more useful question than simply asking whether gel nails are banned.
It is also important not to overstate the health evidence. The regulatory classification relates to TPO's hazardous properties and evidence from animal studies; it does not mean that having a conventional gel manicure has been proven to cause infertility in humans. The CTPA has pointed out that exposure from nail products is substantially lower than the doses associated with harmful effects in the evidence behind the classification.
5 Glossy Alternatives to Gel Nails
If the new rules have made you rethink gel altogether, you do not have to sacrifice a polished finish. These five alternatives highlighted by InStyle offer different ways to get shine, colour and durability without relying on a traditional gel manicure.
From high-shine lacquers to smoothing nail treatments, there is an option for every manicure preference and budget. They are also an easy way to keep your nails looking polished between salon appointments.
KBShimmer Take Back CTRL Nail Polish
Price: $12, about £10
This is the pick for anyone who prioritises staying power. A media outlet reports that two coats can last around 18 days, while the brand's holographic shades offer a more dramatic finish for maximalists.
Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour
Price: $33, £30 in the UK
For a luxury option, Chanel's Le Vernis Longwear delivers vibrant colour with an ultra-shiny, lacquered finish. Chanel currently lists the formula at £30 on its UK website and offers dozens of shades.
Manucurist Active Smooth 03
Price: $19, about £15
This is not technically a traditional polish. It is a tinted nail concealer designed to smooth, strengthen and improve the appearance of the natural nail while giving it a glossy finish.
Dermelect Makeover Smoothing Nail Concealer
Price: $20, about £16
If ridges and uneven texture are your biggest concern, this concealer-style product creates a smoother-looking nail surface while providing a polished appearance.
Londontown Vixen Enhanced Nail Colour
Price: $16, about £13
For something bolder, Vixen is a rich ruby-red shade with a metallic finish. It is an easy way to make a traditional manicure feel more glamorous and statement-making.
The Bottom Line
The UK's TPO rules may mark the end of TPO-containing gel products, but they are not the end of gel nails. TPO-free formulas mean that the glossy, long-lasting salon manicure many people love is still available.
And if you would rather leave gel behind, plenty of traditional polishes and nail treatments can deliver a similarly polished finish. The key change for shoppers is simply knowing what is in the bottle–and asking your salon the right questions before your next appointment. With the right TPO-free formula or long-wearing polish, you can still achieve that fresh-from-the-salon shine without compromising on your preferred nail look.
