Hard as Nails: Europe’s Crackdown on Gel Polish can be Felt at JHS

BY MADISON LEE ’27

As students return to school flaunting their finest manicures, a dangerous chemical risk lingers beneath these ever-popular, long-lasting gel polish designs. On Sept. 1, 2025, the European Union banned the production and use of a chemical that is commonly used in gel nail polish. While the ban is currently in effect in Europe, it has not yet reached the United Kingdom or the United States. The rationale for this ban, however, should make many pause before opting into that next gel manicure.

Trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) is the chemical substance that helps gel nail polish harden quickly under ultraviolet light. Research showed that TPO may negatively affect fertility when ingested by rats. 

Gel manicures are ubiquitous at Jericho High School, with many women getting fresh sets of nails monthly. Although gel polish is appealing for its sleek finish and durability, some are becoming more cautious of it now.

Kaitlyn C. ’27 does her own gel manicures at home. She expressed some concern with this new ban and the potential danger of TPO, especially since she often offers nail services to friends and family. She considered switching to safer alternatives after this ban took effect. 

She said, “If I can make sure that the gel polishes that I’m using are safe for my health and don’t contain this possibly toxic material, I will continue to do my gel nails.”

Some salons in the U.S. have already invested in TPO-free options. Alanna G. ’27 gets her nails done at a salon with these safer offerings. She said that the alternative “takes longer to cure [under UV light], but it doesn’t have TPO.” 

Gel manicures are known for being a fast choice, as they limit a person’s exposure to UV light for longer periods of time. However, Alanna thinks this trade-off is worth it to limit exposure to this chemical. 

Some people were unaware of the toxins associated with gel manicures, entirely. English teacher Kali Muscarella regularly gets gel manicures, but had not heard of TPO before. She said, “What I was always nervous about was the UV; I never actually thought it was in the polish itself.”

Since human exposure to TPO during gel manicures is quite low, the ban is unlikely to reach America. However, many people—in Jericho and beyond—are starting to prioritize healthier, safer nail products over a long-lasting aesthetic.