New regulations for anyone getting their nails done at a salon — or doing them themselves at home — will take effect across Britain from August. Millions of Brits schedule regular gel manicures, but many might not be aware that fresh cosmetics rules arriving this summer are causing salons and beauty companies to alter the products they stock.
What the new rules cover
The updated UK regulations mean particular cosmetic ingredients can no longer be included in new products entering the market, including TPO, a photoinitiator previously present in some gel nail systems, from August 15. Earlier this month, restrictions also took effect on the UV filter 4-MBC found in some cosmetic products, along with revised limits for the fragrance ingredient Methyl Salicylate.
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. The vast majority of professional salons use trusted brands that keep up to date with cosmetic regulations, and many manufacturers have already introduced reformulated products well ahead of the deadline."
Industry adaptation
Danielle said the new rules are a good reminder that where you have your nails done matters. She added: "One of the best things you can do is choose a reputable salon that uses recognised professional products and follows good hygiene practices."
"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. I'd be far more concerned about unregulated products bought online or treatments carried out by unqualified technicians than established salons updating their products to meet the latest regulations."
What to expect for your next manicure
According to Danielle, most clients can expect: salons gradually switching to updated product formulations where required; the same colours, finishes and treatment options remaining available; and professional nail technicians being able to answer questions about the products they use. She also recommends anyone with allergies, sensitive skin or previous reactions to beauty products should inform their nail technician before treatment, regardless of which products are being used.
"Professional salons want clients to feel confident about the treatments they're receiving," Danielle said. "These regulatory changes are ultimately about ensuring products continue to meet the latest safety standards, not about making beauty treatments less accessible."
Timeline for the TPO ban
From August 15, manufacturers and importers are no longer permitted to introduce new batches of TPO-containing products to the UK market. From February 14 next year, retailers and distributors will be prohibited from selling or supplying TPO-containing products to technicians or members of the public.
TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) has been reclassified as a Category 1B Reproductive Toxicant (CMR). Research demonstrated that when rats consumed high concentrations of TPO, it resulted in harmful effects on fertility and reproductive development. TPO was also re-confirmed to possess powerful skin-sensitising characteristics, meaning repeated direct contact with un-cured gel can provoke skin allergies. Any chemical formally designated as a Category 1A or 1B CMR (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or Reprotoxic) is automatically prohibited from cosmetic products as standard.
