Recently Banned TPO, Commonly Found in Gel Nail Polish, But Not in essie* – Where Quality & Safety Matter Most.

Love the look of gel nail polish but concerned about ingredients and their impact on nail health? With the European ban on TPO often found in gel nail polish (effective September 1, 2025), there’s no better time than now to break up with UV gel. Let's explore why and how you should make the switch.

What is TPO?

TPO (or Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) is an ingredient used in some UV gel nail polish products. Its primary function is to initiate the curing process, also known as the hardening or drying process, when exposed to UV or LED light. Before the gel nail polish banned regulations, TPO was exclusively authorized for professional use in artificial nail preparations, with a maximum concentration of 5%.

Is essie formulated with TPO?

Absolutely not. Both essie's classic nail polish lines and Gel by essie products are formulated without the TPO ingredient. The use of TPO in traditional nail polish has never been permitted, ensuring its absence from essie's formulas since the brand's inception.

Are there alternatives to TPO?

Yes, there are excellent alternatives! Gel by essie's mission is to be the best longwear, UV gel nail polish alternative. This revolutionary nail polish, formulated without TPO, provides up to 15 days of plump, gel-like wear and shine with reapplication of top coat at day 7. What’s more, it achieves this in just two easy steps, eliminating the need for a UV lamp. 

Key benefits of Gel by essie:

• 15-day wear: Formulated with patent-pending Flex-e Gel Technology™ for a nail polish that bonds and moves with nails, resisting chipping.

• No UV lamp needed: Achieve a plump, gel-like manicure without the hassle of a UV lamp.

• Glass-like shine: The longwear top coat features a Triple Shine Complex, providing a high-gloss, gel-like finish.

• Easy two-step application: Simply apply two coats of color (no base coat required!) and seal with your choice of top coat for a plump, smooth manicure.

• Less damaging, safer removal:* This product removes easily, just like regular nail polish, without the need for scraping or filing.

• Gentler and less damaging vs. UV Gel.

• More convenient and cost effective vs. UV Gel.

As the beauty industry continues to evolve, essie remains at the forefront, committed to providing innovative and safe solutions for your manicure needs. With Gel by essie, you're not just choosing a beautiful, long-lasting manicure; you're choosing a formula proudly developed without TPO, offering a true UV gel alternative.