JAKARTA – Kutek gel is known as a solution for those who want to appear with beautiful, shiny, and long-lasting nails. But starting September 1, 2025, the European Union (EU) officially prohibits the circulation of gel contexts across the continent.
This prohibition arose after the discovery of hazardous content in the product. The content in question is Trimethylbenzoyl dipenylphosphine oxide or TPO, a chemical functioning as a photoinitiator.
This substance makes the context of a fast gel harden under ultraviolet (UV) rays while keeping its color durable. Unfortunately, research found that TPOs have the potential to be harmful to health.
“This material can be toxic to reproduction, perhaps affecting fertility or endangering the fetus. TPO is also categorized as CMR, namely Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or Reprotoxic, which means it can be carcinogenic. This causes gene mutations, or damages the reproductive system. In addition, TPO is also associated with skin allergies and is sensitive,” explains Dr. Ameesha Mahajan, Skin Specialist and founder of Eden Skin Clinic, quoted from the Indian Express page.
For this reason, the EU has finally banned the use of TPOs in all cosmetic products, including gel contexts to protect consumers. In addition to the risk of TPO content, the use of the gel context itself has a number of side effects that cannot be ignored.
“Strong chemical zones such as solvents, acrylates, or photo initiators can make the skin more susceptible to irritation, allergies, and nail damage if used repeatedly. In addition, UV lights used during the drying process also relate to skin aging and can damage skin tissue. If often used and removed in the wrong way, natural nails can run low and become fragile, “said Dr. Mahajan.
For lovers of nail art, there are still many options to keep performing with beautiful nails without having to take the risk of health. According to Dr. Mahajan, these alternatives include:
– Ordinary context: Choose those labeled 3-free or 10-free because they are safer from harmful chemicals.
– Dip powder claims: More durable, although it requires a special technique when releasing it.
– Press-on turns: Practical, safe, and do not require UV light.
– UV free gel context: Using a safer photo initiator material and only requiring LED light.
– Natural nail care: Routinely tidy up the kutikula, do muffing, and use oil or nail booster serum.
Dr. Mahajan also emphasized the importance of conducting trials before using new products.
“If you have sensitive skin or history of allergies, do a patch test first. To do this, apply a little nail polish in a small area, for example, the inner wrist, then wait 24 hours,” he explained.
“If a reaction appears such as redness, itching, or swelling, you should avoid the product and consult a dermatologist.” he continued.
With this ban, the European Union wants to emphasize that health is more important than just a beauty trend. Before being tempted by glossy nail products, it’s a good idea to consider the risks behind it.
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