Curious about the differences between LED, UV and UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps? Want to understand the gel manicure and pedicure products you’re using, and if they’re safe? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know.
What’s the difference between UV, LED & UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps?
All Gel Nail Lamps utilise UV light to cure Gel Nail Polish, regardless of whether they are UV/LED, LED, or traditional UV lamps.
Old vs. New Technology
Traditional UV lamps used UV bulbs that had to be replaced every 6 months and took around 2 minutes to cure each layer of Gel Polish. In contrast, modern UV/LED lamps, like the Gelous UV/LED Lamp, use LED bulbs that operate within the UV spectrum, providing quicker, more efficient curing. These LED bulbs have a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours and cure Gelous Gel Nail Polish in just 60 seconds.
Efficiency & 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.
What sort of UV rays are emitted from Gel Nail Lamps?
Both UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps and LED Gel Nail Lamps predominantly emit Ultraviolet-A (UVA) rays. UVA is considered safer for humans than Ultraviolet-B (UVB). These minimal UV rays make the use of modern Gel Nail Lamps safe.
Why don’t all brands market their lamps as UV/LED Lamps?
Some brands omit ‘UV’ from their Gel Nail Lamp names to avoid negative connotations. However, we want our customers to be fully informed about the products they are purchasing. That’s why we clearly market our lamps as UV/LED Gel Nail Lamps—ensuring transparency.
How does Gelous Gel Nail Polish cure 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 coating in just 60 seconds. After curing, the Base Coat, Builder Gel and Colour Coat layers will remain slightly tacky after curing so that the next layer can adhere properly, while the Top Coat will be fully cured and dry.
The Importance of Wavelength: 365+405nm for Perfect Curing
The Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp operates within a 365+405nm wavelength range. This specific dual wavelength ensures that Gelous Gel Nail Polish cures effectively and safely, providing a long-lasting finish. The 365+405nm wavelength is carefully selected to match the curing needs of Gelous Gel Polish, which is formulated to react to this light for an optimal result.
Using the correct wavelength helps you achieve flawless results and ensures that the gel cures evenly, without compromising your nail health. It’s important to use Gelous Gel Nail Polish with the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp to guarantee compatibility and avoid the risk of under-curing, which could cause damage to your nails.
The Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp operates within a specific wavelength range of 365+405nm. This dual wavelength is perfectly matched to the curing requirements of Gelous Gel Nail Polish, ensuring optimal results. When exposed to this light, the Gel Polish cures effectively, creating a smooth, durable finish that lasts.
The 365+405nm wavelength refers to the specific ultraviolet (UV) light emitted by the lamp. The numbers 365nm and 405nm represent the exact points in the UV spectrum where the lamp operates, each targeting different curing needs for the 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, making sure that your Gel Nail Polish is fully hardened without the risk of under-curing, which can cause the polish to peel or damage your nails. Using the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp in conjunction with Gelous Gel Nail Polish guarantees that the products work harmoniously for the best, most long-lasting results.
Is a Gel Manicure 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 UV, UV/LED or LED Lamps used for gel manicures is very minimal, making them safe for use.
Should I be wearing sun protection when curing my Gel Nail Polish?
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, we understand the importance of protecting your skin. We recommend applying sunblock 15-30 minutes before using your Gel Nail Lamp, just as you would before going for a walk.
What other safety precautions should I be taking when using a Gel Nail Lamp?
Check your medication before gel manicures or gel pedicures
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 or 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.
Only use compatible Gel Nail Polish and Gel Nail Lamps
To achieve the best results, it’s essential to use Gelous Gel Nail Polish with the Gelous UV/LED Gel Nail Lamp. Our 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 or Top Coat—or attempting to air-dry your Gel Polish can lead to poor adhesion, undercuring, and potential damage to your nails.
Other ways to keep your nails and hands healthy and safe before, during, and after Gel Manicures
- Apply Cuticle Oil and a Hydrating Hand Cream regularly to keep your 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.
- Avoid getting back-to-back gel manicures. This break will allow your nails to rehydrate and repair. We recommend a break of at least 1-2 weeks.
- 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 The Aromatherapy Co Hand Cream until your nails are in a better condition for a gel manicure.
