Is gel nail polish being banned?

The European Union (EU) has introduced new regulations regarding gel nail polish and its ingredients. The main concern is the potential health risks associated with certain chemicals used in these products, particularly the photoinitiators that are activated by UV light during the curing process. The new rules aim to restrict the use of specific photoinitiators, such as benzophenone-type compounds, due to their potential carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting properties. Manufacturers will be required to reformulate their gel nail polish products to comply with the updated safety standards. While the new regulations do not constitute an outright ban on gel nail polish, they signal a shift towards stricter oversight and a greater emphasis on consumer safety. The changes are expected to impact the cosmetics industry, as manufacturers work to adapt their formulations and ensure their products meet the new regulatory requirements. The implementation of these new rules is intended to protect the health of both nail technicians and consumers who regularly use gel nail polish, although the long-term effects of exposure to these chemicals are still being studied.