Why Europe Banned Gel Nail Polish and My Non Toxic Nail Routine

🚨 Europe Banned Gel Nail Polish — Here’s Why

As of September 1, 2025 gel nail polishes containing a chemical called TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide) are banned across Europe. TPO is a photoinitiator that helps gel polish harden under UV lamps but studies found it may be toxic for reproduction.

The European Union decided the risk was too high so it’s gone. Meanwhile here in the U.S. the same products are still on shelves and in salons.

💡 Why the U.S. Lags Behind

This isn’t new. Over and over Europe bans ingredients linked to cancer hormone disruption or reproductive harm and the U.S. drags its feet for years sometimes decades.

It’s not just nail polish. It’s baby products food additives haircare. The truth The U.S. regulatory system prioritizes industry profits over public health.

Europe applies what’s called the precautionary principle. If there’s reasonable evidence that something might cause harm they restrict it or ban it. The U.S. does the opposite. Unless there’s overwhelming proof that an ingredient is dangerous it stays on the market. That means Americans are often acting as the test subjects while companies continue making money.

So when Europe pulls the plug on a chemical like TPO it’s a red flag. Even if regulators here say “don’t worry” the fact is we’re still being exposed while the rest of the world moves on.

🧪 What Else Is in Nail Products

Even beyond TPO conventional nail products may contain

• Formaldehyde a known carcinogen

• Phthalates linked to hormone disruption

• Parabens disrupt hormones and fertility

• Toluene camphor resins irritating and potentially toxic

And remember your nails aren’t just for looks. You cook care for kids and live daily life with your hands. Everything on your nails touches everything else in your world.

🌿 My Non Toxic Nail Journey

I’ve been done with gel polish for a long time. Honestly who has the time and money to keep up with salon visits especially once you become a mom. Motherhood shifted my priorities and sitting in a salon chair for hours just didn’t make sense anymore.

But recently I’ve also been learning more about just how toxic many of these beauty products can be. And that’s what really pushed me into DIY. If I can make something at home that’s safer for my body and my family why not?

That’s when I came across the Bare Hands kit just last month. It buffs the surface of your natural nails until they shine like polish with no UV and no chemicals. I fell in love right away.

The only thing I didn’t love was how pricey their oil was. So I started experimenting and made my own DIY nail oil. It’s affordable it works and I know exactly what’s in it.

✨ DIY Nail Oil Recipe

Here’s my go to blend

• 2 tbsp jojoba oil

• 1 tbsp sweet almond oil

• 1 tbsp vitamin E oil

• 5 drops lavender essential oil

• 3 drops lemon essential oil

Mix in a glass dropper bottle and massage 1–2 drops into nails and cuticles daily. That’s it Simple affordable and nourishing.

💅 Why Nail Health Matters

Most of us think of nail polish as purely cosmetic. But your nails are actually living tissue and they need care just like your skin or hair. Strong hydrated nails are less likely to split peel or develop painful hangnails. Healthy cuticles also protect against infections and keep nails growing evenly.

When you use oils consistently you’re feeding your nails with the vitamins and fatty acids they need to stay resilient. It’s a small daily habit that adds up to long term strength.

❓ Quick FAQ

Is gel polish safe if it doesn’t contain TPO
Some brands are reformulating without TPO but many still rely on other chemicals like formaldehyde resins or parabens. Safer doesn’t always mean safe.

Can natural nails really shine without polish
Yes, The Bare Hands kit buffs the nail surface for a glossy finish and paired with nourishing oil your nails look polished without any chemicals.

Do I have to DIY the oil myself
Not at all. If you enjoy DIY you can make it at home with the recipe above. But if you’re not a DIY person, I’m working on a pre measured Nail Oil Kit that makes it easy.

🌱 Why This Matters

Europe banning TPO isn’t just about one ingredient. It’s a wake up call that we can’t wait on regulators to protect us. Our health is our responsibility and every small swap adds up.

If you want to try this routine grab the recipe above. And if you’re not a DIY person don’t worry I’m working on a pre measured Nail Oil Kit so you can have everything ready to go no sourcing required.

Your nails don’t need chemicals to shine 💅