Topcoat Nail Polishes 2025: Safe & Stunning Alternatives After Europeโ€™s Bold Ban

Hand curing red topcoat nail polish under a UV LED lamp.

Last Updated on September 3, 2025

EU regulators have prioritized Clean nails by classifying TPO as a CMR 1B substance, meaning it may be carcinogenic, mutagenic, or harmful to reproduction. Previously capped at 5% in topcoat nail applications, itโ€™s now prohibited entirely under the Omnibus VII update. So if youโ€™re not rocking the Clean Girl Manicure Trend, keep reading.

On September 1, 2025, the European Union enacted a sweeping ban on trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), a key ingredient commonly found in many topcoat nail products. This chemical, known as a photo initiator, helps topcoat nail formulas cure quickly under UV or LED light while delivering that coveted ultra-glossy finish.

Why the EU Said โ€œNoโ€ to TPO

Collection of Pink Mask GelColor bottles including topcoat nail polish
A selection of professional gel topcoat nail polishes is on display.

The decision stems from animal studies suggesting health risks, especially concerning reproductive toxicity. While human evidence is not definitive, the EUโ€™s precautionary principle, a hallmark of its cosmetics regulation, drove the full ban.

Immediate Impact: Who Is Affected?

Nail artist applying topcoat nail polish during a manicure session in a salon.
A stylist carefully applies topcoat nail polish for a lasting finish.
  • Salon pros and salons across the EU must immediately stop using, selling, or distributing any TPO-containing products. There is no grace period to sell through old stock.
  • Manufacturers and distributors must reformulate all products distributed in Europe or face fines and penalties.
  • Consumers may notice fewer gel options in Europe unless brands have switched to TPO-free formulas.

Related Post:

Best Non-Toxic Nail Polish Brands for a Stunning & Safe Manicure

Brands That Already Said Goodbye to TPO

Topcoat nail polish display with OPI and other gel colors in a wooden salon shelf.
Organized shelves featuring topcoat nail colors ready for clients.

Manucurist has been ahead of the curve, using TPO L, a safer non-CMR photoinitiator, in its Green Flashโ„ข line. Features include 84 percent bio-sourced ingredients, vegan formulas, and up to 12-day wear.

Similarly, Elegelli announced all its gel products are TPO-free, meeting EU regulations without compromising performance. Other known TPO-free alternatives include:

  • OPIโ€™s Intelli Gel system
  • Aprรฉs Nail
  • Nail Creation
  • Aimeili

Related Post:

The Effortless Manicure Trend Thatโ€™s Taking Over Your Feed

The U.S. Contrast: Business as Usual for Now

Hand selecting from different topcoat nail polish samples in soft pink shades.
Choosing the perfect topcoat nail finish from salon samples.

Unlike the EU, the United States has not banned TPO. Gel nail salons in the U.S. continue using TPO-based products, although some may voluntarily switch as formulations shift globally.

Smart Moves for Mani Lovers

Close-up of a hand with natural nails finished with a clear topcoat nail polish.
A glossy, clear topcoat nail enhances natural beauty.
  • Ask salons if they use TPO-free products, especially if you are cautious about potential risks.
  • Space out your gel manicures, use a fortifying base coat, and ensure good ventilation during application.
  • Watch out for other risks, such as UV exposure and nail infections like Pseudomonas associated with lifted gels.

Signing Off with a Glossy but Safe Finish

The EU’s TPO ban marks a bold leap in cosmetic safety, even if based largely on precaution. If you are in Europe, prepare for a shift in nail salon menus. And if you are elsewhere, this regulatory move might still inspire safer formulations worldwide.

Stay glossy, stay safe!

What is a top coat for nails?

The color coat adheres better to the priming in the bottom layer, which helps to hold it in place. In order to prevent the color coat from peeling, a top coat is typically a clear coat. Both the top edge of the nails and the color coat should have it applied.

When should I put a top coat on my nails?

Unless it’s humid or a slow-drying polish, it’s usually ready for the topcoat to be applied after a minute or two. Since a fast-drying top coat is made to aid in the drying of wet polish, it’s acceptable to apply it before your polish has begun to dry.

Do you really need a top coat?

Topcoat is beneficial for your nails in terms of both look and protection from normal wear and tear. It provides an additional barrier for the nail and helps maintain the polish by avoiding chipping, fading, and dullness.

Isabela Mรกrquez del Sol
Author at  | Website |  + posts

Meet Isabela Mรกrquez del Sol โ€“ Nail Art Enthusiast & Spa Reviewer

Isabela Mรกrquez del Sol is a recognized voice in the beauty and self-care industry, best known for her vibrant passion for nail design, manicure trends, and luxury nail salon experiences. With years of hands-on experience exploring top-rated nail spas and providing honest, insightful spa reviews, Isabela has become a trusted resource for those seeking expert guidance on the best nail salons near me and cutting-edge nail art inspiration.

As a dedicated beauty content creator and spa reviewer, she combines her love for detailed manicures with a commitment to sharing her knowledge of professional nail care, product recommendations, and spa-quality treatments. Whether testing out the latest gel nail trends or highlighting clean and affordable manicure salons, Isabela brings an eye for detail and a passion for quality that readers can rely on.

Her content aligns with Google's EEAT principles, delivering first-hand expertise, authentic experiences, and trustworthy reviews that help thousands of beauty enthusiasts make confident choices about their nail care and salon services.

Follow Isabela for updates on the best manicure spots, nail trends, spa experiences, and everything you need to elevate your nail game with style and substance.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!