EU Bans HEMA & TPO in Gel Polish: What It Means for Nail Professionals

Effective September 1, 2025, the European Union officially banned two common ingredients in gel polishes: HEMA (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) and TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide). The announcement shook the nail industry overnight, raising concerns not only among nail professionals, salon owners, and beauty retailers, but also with customers who simply enjoy getting their nails done at a salon.

While the ban only applies to the EU, the news is already making waves in the United States. Customers are beginning to ask for “HEMA-free” and “TPO-free” options, even though there are no current regulations here. For U.S. salons, that means it’s time to prepare — and Nails Plus is here to help.

What Are HEMA and TPO?

• HEMA (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate): A bonding agent that helps gel polish adhere securely to natural nails.
• TPO (trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide): A curing agent that allows gel polish to harden properly under UV/LED lamps.

Both ingredients have been widely used for years in gel systems, builder gels, and hybrid products. However, the EU classified TPO as a CMR 1B substance (carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction), triggering a ban at even trace levels.

Why Did the EU Ban Them?

The EU follows a “precautionary principle” in cosmetics regulation. Even if the risk is minimal, if an ingredient is linked to potential health concerns, it’s often removed from consumer products entirely.

In this case, both HEMA and TPO were targeted for possible health impacts, despite the extremely small quantities used in nail products. The ban is less about immediate danger and more about aligning cosmetic regulations with evolving safety standards.

Why This Matters in the United States

Although the U.S. has not banned these ingredients, the ripple effect is real:

• Consumer Awareness: U.S. clients are reading headlines and asking for “TPO Free / HEMA Free” polishes.
• Industry Shifts: Global brands are already reformulating their lines to meet EU requirements.
• Competitive Edge: Salons that adopt safer alternatives early can position themselves as ahead of the curve.

For nail professionals, this is less about regulation and more about reputation and customer confidence. Offering HEMA Free / TPO-free options shows your clients you’re proactive about safety and quality.

HEMA Free / TPO-Free Alternatives at Nails Plus

The good news? Nails Plus already carries a wide range of HEMA free and TPO-free products. Here are some of the standout brands leading the way:

Apres

• Discontinued its entire original OG Gel Polish line.
• Reformulated all colors to be HEMA free / TPO free while keeping the same packaging and shade numbers.
  👉 Shop Apres Gel Colors 

Kiara Sky Gel Pro (Exclusive to Nails Plus DFW)

• 100% HEMA free / TPO free.
• Brand-new Gel Pro collection, available only at Nails Plus in Dallas/Fort Worth.
  👉 Shop Kiara Sky Gel Pro
  
  

The Gel Bottle (TGB)

• Based in the United Kingdom, exclusively distributed by Nails Plus in Texas.
• All products are already HEMA free, with ongoing reformulation to remove TPO.
  👉 Shop The Gel Bottle Collection
  
  

OPI Intelli-Gel & GELevate Builder Gel

• OPI reformulated its entire Gel Color line into the new Intelli-Gel, free of HEMA and TPO.
• GELevate builder gels are also fully HEMA free & TPO free.
  👉 Shop OPI Intelli-Gel
  👉 Shop OPI GELevate
  
  

Dazzle Dry

• Not a gel, but a unique four-step lacquer system that delivers gel-like wear.
• Vegan, cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, quick-drying in just 5 minutes.
• Chip-free for 7–14 days, removes easily with standard nail polish remover.
• Available exclusively in-store at Nails Plus.

Why Choose Nails Plus?

At Nails Plus, we’re more than a distributor — we’re a family-run business committed to supporting nail professionals. Here’s why salons and techs across Texas and beyond trust us:

• Exclusive Access: We’re the only Texas distributor for top brands like The Gel Bottle.
• Constant Updates: We stock reformulated lines as soon as they’re available.
• Industry Authority: We track global nail trends and regulations so you can focus on your clients.

Whether you’re a salon owner, nail tech, or DIY enthusiast, Nails Plus is your go-to resource for safe, innovative nail products.

Conclusion

The EU’s ban on HEMA and TPO may not directly affect U.S. regulations — but it does influence customer expectations. Salons that adapt now will build trust and stay competitive.

At Nails Plus, we’re proud to offer a growing selection of HEMA/TPO-free products from brands like Apres, Kiara Sky, The Gel Bottle, OPI, and Dazzle Dry. Stay ahead of the trend — your clients will thank you.

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Beautifully Yours,
~ Kim Phan, VP