The appeal of gel manicures

Walk into any salon and you’ll see it- the glow of perfectly polished gel nails. They’re glossy, chip-resistant, and can last for weeks. For many, gel manicures have become a non-negotiable ritual, not just a beauty choice but a confidence booster. But in recent months, a new concern has surfaced: some gel polishes contain a chemical called TPO, a chemical in many gel polishes, might be banned and even linked to fertility risks. So, should you worry?

Let’s unpack it clearly and also point out why choosing a salon like MIYUKI in Powai means you’re in good hands.

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What exactly is TPO and why is it banned?

TPO, short for Triphenyl Phosphate, is a photoinitiator. In simple terms, it helps the gel polish harden when cured under UV or LED lamps. It’s not the only chemical in nail products, but it has caught regulators’ attention.

It’s efficient, but it’s now classified under the EU’s chemical safety system (CLP) as CMR category 1B for reproductive toxicity.

To clarify: that doesn’t mean gel polishes were suddenly proven dangerous. The classification is precautionary, based on animal studies, and triggered the EU ban starting September 1, 2025 - including products already in salons.

It’s important to note this doesn’t mean every gel manicure you’ve ever had is dangerous. It does mean the beauty industry is being pushed to evolve and many brands and salons already have.

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Does this mean gel manicures damage your nails?

Here’s the thing: the ban on TPO is not about nail damage. Your natural nails aren’t being “burned” or “poisoned” at the salon. The concern is systemic exposure if unsafe formulations are repeatedly used over time.

The actual damage many clients face such as peeling, brittleness, thin nails, usually comes from:

• Improper removal (peeling polish off instead of soaking it)
• Over-filing the nail surface
• Ignoring timely refills

So, the myth that “gel polish ruins your nails” isn’t really about the polish itself, but about technique, product quality, and aftercare.

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How MIYUKI is responding

The beauty industry is at a turning point. Clients want beautiful nails, but not at the cost of their health. This is where product transparency and salon responsibility matter.

Miyuki chooses:

• TPO-free and HEMA-free gel brands that are tested for safety
• Offer vegan, cruelty-free formulations
• Maintain strict hygiene standards by sterilising every tool
• Educate clients about safe application and removal

When a salon prioritises these steps, you can still enjoy the glossy perfection of gel nails without the worry.

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MIYUKI’s approach: luxury with safety at the core

At MIYUKI Salon in Powai, we’ve always believed that beauty should never compromise health. That’s why we only use advanced, clean gel polish brands which are TPO-free, HEMA-free, and vegan.

But it doesn’t stop at the products.

• Every nail tool goes through medical-grade sterilisation
• Nail artists are trained to follow the safest application and removal practices
• Hygiene is non-negotiable which means we pair luxury with absolute client care

Clients walk in for the aesthetic, but they come back because they know we never cut corners on safety. That’s what sets MIYUKI apart as a true destination for luxury nail care in Mumbai.

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Tips to make your gel manicure last longer

Even with the best polish and the safest application, your lifestyle plays a role in how long your manicure lasts. A few simple adjustments can protect your nails:

• Avoid hot water immediately after your appointment. Let the gel fully set.
• Wear gloves while doing dishes or cleaning to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals.
• Don’t use nails as tools to open cans, peel off stickers etc.
• Moisturise cuticles daily with oil to keep nails flexible and hydrated.
• Book timely removals instead of peeling polish off at home or letting the edges grow out too long.

These little habits extend the shine and reduce the chances of nail breakage.

Common Missteps	Healthy Nail Routine
Peeling gel polish off instead of soaking	Always soak off gel polish professionally
Over-filing the nail surface	File gently, preserving natural nail strength
Skipping cuticle care	Moisturise cuticles daily with oil
Delaying refills until polish lifts	Book timely refills to prevent lifting
Exposing nails to harsh cleaners without protection	Wear gloves for cleaning or dishwashing
Using nails to open cans or peel labels	Use proper tools instead of nails

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So, should you be worried?

The short answer: be informed, not alarmed. The TPO ban highlights the need for higher standards in beauty products, but it doesn’t mean gel manicures are unsafe across the board. The safest path is choosing salons that invest in clean products and hygiene protocols and that’s exactly where MIYUKI shines.