Gel manicures are loved for their chip-free shine and quick drying time, but a new European Union regulation is shining a light on what is really inside those glossy bottles. As of 1 September 2025, the EU has prohibited the sale and use of products containing trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), an ingredient used to harden gel polish under UV lamps.

What Is TPO and Why Was It Banned?

TPO is the molecule that triggers the curing reaction in gel polish when exposed to UV light. It is what gives gel manicures their durability and fast finish. However, European regulators have classified it as a reproductive toxicant after animal studies showed testicular abnormalities and reduced fertility in rats repeatedly fed high doses. 

Whilst people are not eating their nail polish, and no studies have confirmed harm in humans, we believe the EU has taken the right precautionary approach: restrict first if there is potential risk, then review the evidence. That is why more than 1,700 ingredients are banned in European cosmetics compared to far fewer in places like Australia or the United States.

Why Go For Zero No Longer Stocks Nail Polish

At Go For Zero, we have always believed that transparency and safety should come before trends. Experts may say gel and regular polishes are generally safe, but the reality is most nail products are a cocktail of harsh chemicals, from solvents to plasticisers and over 2,000 additives in total. 

That’s why you won’t find nail polish on our shelves. In the past, we stocked 10-free nail polish that cut out 10 of the harshest ingredients. But we chose to step back from this category, because we only want to offer products that truly meet our health-conscious standards. It’s not about scaring people,  it’s about giving you the information to make fully informed choices for your body and the planet.

Cleaner Nail Polish Alternatives: What Are Your Options?

If you love the look of polished nails once in a while, we get it.

Look for X-free formulas, e.g., 7-free, 10-free, or even 12-free, which indicate the polish has been made without some of the most concerning ingredients. However, it’s important to remember that these terms are not legally standardised and some products still contain harsh chemicals, so it is essential to read the ingredients list carefully. Taking a few extra seconds to check what is actually in the products you're using.

Or, you could go one step further and skip polish altogether to embrace your natural nails (the best choice if you ask us). Use olive oil as a nourishing cuticle oil or hand cream, and add a gentle buff for a healthy, glossy look, with none of the questionable chemicals or UV exposure. It’s kinder on your wallet, cuts down on toxic polish bottle waste, and saves time at the salon. Sometimes the simplest choices really are the most powerful, and your nails will thank you for it.

Small Choices, Big Impact

Moments like the EU’s TPO ban show how regulation can drive innovation and how conscious consumer choices can too. By choosing safer formulas or going polish-free, you are sending a clear signal to manufacturers that clean, non-toxic ingredients matter. Those small switches ripple outward, encouraging brands to reformulate and ultimately creating a safer, more transparent beauty industry. Your manicure can still be natural and gorgeous, while being kinder to your body and the environment.

Thanks for tuning in again this week, GFZ's. For more Earth-loving stories, you can pick from so many others here!

Lots of love, Ellie xxx