Millions of people across the UK who regularly book gel manicures may soon notice salons using slightly different products, as new cosmetic regulations come into effect from 15 August. However, beauty experts are reassuring clients that there is no need to cancel appointments or worry about the safety of their favourite treatment.
The regulatory change centres on Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO), an ingredient previously used in some gel nail systems. While the chemical is being phased out of new products entering the UK market, industry professionals stress that most leading brands have already reformulated their products, meaning customers are unlikely to notice any difference in the look or longevity of their manicure.
Why TPO Is Being Phased Out
TPO is a photoinitiator, a chemical that enables gel polish to harden when exposed to UV or LED lamps. It plays a key role in creating the glossy, durable finish that has made gel manicures one of the beauty industry's most popular treatments.
The ingredient is being removed following updated cosmetic safety regulations after it was reclassified as a Category 1B reproductive toxicant. Scientific studies involving laboratory animals found that exposure to high concentrations could negatively affect fertility and reproductive development.
TPO has also been recognised as a strong skin sensitiser, meaning repeated contact with uncured gel products may increase the likelihood of developing allergic reactions over time.
Under UK cosmetics legislation, substances classified as Category 1A or 1B carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic chemicals are generally prohibited from use in cosmetic products unless a specific exemption is granted.
What the New Rules Mean
The regulations do not amount to a ban on gel manicures themselves. Instead, they affect how manufacturers, retailers and salons source their products.
From 15 August, manufacturers and importers will no longer be permitted to place new TPO-containing cosmetic products on the UK market.
A second deadline follows on 14 February 2027, when retailers and distributors must stop selling or supplying products containing TPO to salons, nail technicians and consumers.
Importantly, the rules do not mean clients need to remove existing gel manicures or avoid current salon treatments. The changes relate to products entering the market rather than cured gel already applied to nails.
Alongside the TPO update, UK regulators have also introduced revised restrictions covering the UV filter 4-MBC and updated permitted limits for the fragrance ingredient Methyl Salicylate, reflecting wider efforts to keep cosmetic regulations aligned with the latest scientific evidence.
Beauty Experts Say Clients Shouldn't Panic
Beauty professionals have been quick to reassure consumers that the new regulations are part of the industry's normal process of improving product safety. Danielle Louise, beauty expert at Fresha, said: 'If you regularly get gel nails, there's no reason to cancel your appointments or worry that something has suddenly become unsafe.'
She explained that reputable manufacturers have spent months reformulating products ahead of the deadline, allowing salons to transition smoothly without affecting the treatments clients receive.
Louise added: '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.'
As a result, customers should continue to expect the same range of colours, finishes and long-lasting results when visiting professional salons.
Choosing a Trusted Salon Is More Important Than Ever
While the regulatory changes are unlikely to affect most salon appointments, experts say they highlight the importance of choosing qualified nail technicians who use recognised professional brands. Louise encouraged clients to ask questions if they are unsure about the products being applied during a treatment.
She said: '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.'
She added that she would be far more concerned about unregulated gel products purchased online or treatments carried out by unqualified technicians than established salons adapting to the latest regulations.
For anyone with sensitive skin, allergies or previous reactions to beauty products, experts recommend informing technicians before treatment so suitable products can be selected.
What Clients Can Expect Next
For most consumers, the transition will happen quietly behind the scenes. Professional brands have already begun replacing TPO with compliant alternatives, allowing salons to continue offering the same high-quality gel manicures with little noticeable change.
Rather than signalling the end of gel nails, the updated regulations reflect the beauty industry's ongoing commitment to improving safety as scientific understanding develops. For clients, the message from experts is simple: continue visiting reputable salons, ask questions if needed and enjoy your next gel manicure with confidence, knowing the products are evolving to meet the latest safety standards.
