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Gel manicures are a beauty staple for millions, lasting weeks without chips and staying glossy through work, workouts and everything in between.

But as of Sept. 1, 2025, the European Union has banned a chemical used in many gel polishes, sparking safety concerns and uncertainty for nail salons, according to a press release.

The ingredient in question is Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide (TPO). This compound reacts under UV light to make the polish harden quickly and give it a glass-like finish.

The decision appears to stem from several studies linking TPO exposure to fertility issues.

These studies often focused on animal subjects, not humans, but the EU uses a strict "better safe than sorry" approach when it co

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