More Women Abandon Gel Nail Polish Due to Cost, Maintenance, and Health Concerns

After years of gel nail polish being a staple in beauty routines, an increasing number of women are choosing to return to natural nails. Initially popular for its convenience, shine, and durability lasting weeks, gel polish has become costly and demanding to maintain, requiring frequent salon visits and touch-ups every few weeks. Many women express a desire to let their nails "breathe" after prolonged exposure to filing and removal processes that can weaken and thin the nails.

Health concerns have also contributed to this trend. Recent studies have raised questions about the safety of certain gel polish ingredients. In 2025, the European Union banned the use of TPO, a component found in these products, due to its potential to harm fertility. Additionally, a 2023 laboratory study found that UV light from gel polish curing lamps can cause direct DNA damage to skin cells, reigniting public debate about the risks of repeated exposure to these lamps.

The combination of rising living costs, the burden of upkeep, and growing health awareness is motivating many women to opt for a clean, natural nail look. Despite this shift, gel nail polish remains one of the world's most popular beauty treatments.