Also sometimes known as "fake" or "false" nails, there are many different types of artificial nails, but only some are classed as cosmetic products.
Artificial nails are extensions of the natural nail and are popular amongst UK and worldwide consumers.
"Liquid and Powder (L&P)" nails and "UV gel" nails are where the artificial nail is 'built up' on the natural nail. Both are classified as cosmetic products. These products may be used in professional salons and nail bars and some will be available for home use. All cosmetic products used or sold in salons are subject to the same strict European safety laws as those sold in retail outlets.
Traditional "false nails" that are already formed in a nail shape and are attached to the natural nail by glue are not classed as cosmetic products, neither is the glue. This is because there is a clear definition of a cosmetic product in law and a cosmetic must be a 'substance' that performs a cosmetic function and cannot be an 'article'. Instead, these are classed as "general products" and will be subject to the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR). The GPSR requires that products must be safe.
Read more about the science and safety behind cosmetic artifical nails in our dedicated section how do artificial nails work?
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