Gel Nail Lamp Safety: UV Facts & Safe Use

If you’ve ever wondered whether Gel Nail Lamps are safe to use, you’re not alone. Questions around UV exposure are common, especially for at-home gel manicures and pedicures. This guide explains what the research says, how modern lamps are designed to minimise exposure, and the simple best practices that help you enjoy long-lasting, healthy gel nails with confidence.

Are Gel Manicures and Gel Nail Lamps Safe?

Gel manicures are safe when gel nail products are used correctly and with proper care. Although prolonged exposure to UV rays has been linked to skin damage, research has shown that the amount of UV rays emitted by Gel Nail Lamps used for gel manicures is very minimal, making them safe for use.

Do You Need Sun Protection When Using a Gel Nail Lamp?

The risk of sunburn or skin damage from using Gel Nail Lamps is extremely low, as the recommended usage time of up to 5 x 60 seconds is well below the threshold for potential harm. This has been confirmed by reputable sources such as Dr Stern, a New York City-based dermatologist and nail specialist, who states that "even if you were to have a gel manicure every week, your chances of developing skin cancer would not be increased."

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also views nail curing lamps as low risk when used as directed. A 2013 study found that even for the worst lamp evaluated, 30 minutes of daily exposure to this lamp was below the occupational exposure limits for UV radiation. Further, at this time, there is no evidence that Gel Nail Lamps cause cancer. You can feel confident in your gel manicure knowing that your Gel Nail Lamp poses very little risk to your skin when used as directed.

Although the risk of skin damage is low, protecting your skin is still important when using your Gel Nail Lamp. You can do this by wearing Anti-UV Gloves or applying sunscreen 15–30 minutes before curing, just as you would before heading outside.

Safe Use and Nail Health Best Practices

Medication and UV Sensitivity

Before your gel manicure or pedicure, make sure to check if any medications you’re taking may react poorly to UV light. Dr Stern points out one such medication is Doxycycline, commonly used for the treatment of acne and infections. If you're unsure about the potential side effects of other medications, it's best to consult with your doctor to determine any risks before placing your hands under a UV/LED light. This is a simple step you can take to ensure your safety and give you the peace of mind to properly enjoy your gel manicure or pedicure. 

Gel Nail Polish and  Gel Nail Lamp Compatibility

To achieve the best results, it’s essential to use Gelous Gel Nail Polish with the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp. Our Gel Lamp operates at dual wavelengths of 365+405nm, and our Gel Polish is specially formulated to cure within this range. Using non-Gelous products may lead to incompatibility, resulting in under-cured polish—which not only affects your manicure’s longevity but can also harm your nails.

For beautiful, long-lasting nails it’s essential you follow the proper application process: apply Gelous Base Coat, Colour Coat and Top Coat, curing each coat for 60 seconds under the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp. Skipping crucial steps—like the Base Coat or Top Coat—or attempting to air-dry your Gel Polish can lead to poor adhesion, under-curing, and potential damage to your nails.

How to Keep Nails Healthy Before and After Gel Manicures

• Apply Cuticle Oil and a Hydrating Hand Cream regularly to keep your nails and hands nourished.
• Dispose of Gelous Orangewood Cuticle Sticks after use. These cannot be disinfected, so it is unhygienic to use them multiple times.
• Replace your Gelous Nail File approximately every three months if you’re a regular user. Keeping it any longer can lead to nail damage (as the buffing plates wear down) and a build-up of bacteria.
• Carefully read our Application & Removal Guides before use, or watch our handy step-by-step video tutorials on our Youtube channel.
• Remove your Gel Nail Polish according to the Gelous Removal Guide. Avoid picking at your Gel Nail Polish, as you will inevitably peel away part of your natural nail, leaving it thin and weak.
  
• Be careful not to over-file the nail plate as it may cause sensitivity.
• Avoid touching your skin with Gel Nail Polish and if you do, make sure to wipe it off immediately before curing. Curing Gel Nail Polish on your skin can cause mild to serious irritation.
• Do not use if you have extremely short nails or if your nails are in poor condition (thin, dry or split). We recommend using Cuticle Oil and Hand Cream until your nails are in a better condition for a gel manicure.