LED, UV and UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps: What’s the Difference?

Curious about the differences between LED, UV, and UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps? Want to better understand how your gel manicure and pedicure products work? This guide covers everything you need to know about lamp technology, curing science, and choosing the right setup for long-lasting results.

What’s the Difference Between UV, LED and UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps?

All Gel Nail Lamps use UV light to cure Gel Nail Polish, whether they’re labelled UV, LED, or UV/LED. The key difference lies in the type of bulbs used and how efficiently they deliver UV light. In modern Gel Nail Lamps, the terms LED and UV/LED are used interchangeably to describe the same LED-based UV curing technology.

Old vs. New Technology

Traditional UV lamps used UV bulbs that needed replacing every six months and could take around two minutes to cure each layer of Gel Polish. Modern lamps, like the Gelous UV/LED Lamp, use LED bulbs that operate within the UV spectrum, delivering faster, more energy-efficient curing. These bulbs can last up to 50,000 hours and cure Gelous Gel Nail Polish in just 60 seconds.

Efficiency and Safety

LED bulbs are safer and faster than traditional UV bulbs. They emit less UV radiation and, because of their efficiency, they reduce exposure time significantly.

Why Some Brands Avoid "UV" When Marketing Gel Nail Lamps

Some brands avoid using the term “UV” due to negative associations. However, we believe in transparency—which is why we clearly label our lamps as UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps, so customers understand exactly how their products work.

What Type of UV Rays Are Emitted by Gel Nail Lamps?

Both UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps and LED Gel Nail Lamps primarily emit Ultraviolet-A (UVA) rays. UVA is considered safer than Ultraviolet-B (UVB), and the low levels used in modern nail lamps make them safe when used as directed.

How Gel Nail Polish Cures Under Gel Nail Lamps

Gel Nail Polish contains special ingredients that react to the UV rays emitted by the Gel Nail Lamp. This process, known as curing, transforms the liquid gel into a hard, durable coating in just 60 seconds.

After curing, the Base Coat, Builder Gel, and Colour Coat layers will remain slightly tacky so the next layer can bond properly. The Top Coat, however, cures fully and dries to a smooth, glossy finish.

Why 365+405nm Matters for Perfect Gel Curing

The Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp operates within a 365+405nm wavelength range, which is specifically chosen to match the curing needs of Gelous Gel Nail Polish. This dual wavelength ensures that the Gel Polish cures effectively and safely, providing a long-lasting, durable finish.

Using the correct wavelength is essential for achieving flawless results, as it ensures the Gel Nail Polish cures evenly without compromising your nail health. For optimal results, it’s important to use Gelous Gel Nail Polish with the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp. This combination guarantees compatibility, preventing under-curing, which could lead to damage or premature peeling.

The 365+405nm wavelength emitted by the lamp is carefully designed to meet the specific curing requirements of Gelous Gel Nail Polish:

• 365nm: This wavelength is ideal for the initial curing process, as it helps the Gel Nail Polish to begin hardening and bonding to the nail surface. It’s particularly effective for curing the gel’s base and ensuring adhesion. 
• 405nm: The slightly longer wavelength of 405nm is important for the final curing stages. It allows the Gel Polish to fully harden and gives the nails that glossy, durable finish.

Together, these two wavelengths ensure a complete curing process, allowing your Gel Nail Polish to fully harden and reducing the risk of under-curing. This guarantees a smooth, long-lasting manicure or pedicure. Using the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp in combination with Gelous Gel Nail Polish ensures your products work together seamlessly for the best results.