HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT NAIL LAMP

Curing lamps for gel products come in a wide variety of options. If you've recently explored LED curing lights, you'll find a abundance of options, with nearly 100 models all making similar claims. These claims include factors like wattage, the type of bulb (LED or UV), light wavelengths/energy output, power source (battery or corded), one- or two-hand curing, different styles (flashlight, full-size, or four-finger), visible timer display or not, timer settings ranging from 10 to 120 seconds, and the list goes on.

However, at the end of the day, the most important feature is that it properly cures the gel product. If the lamp fails in this regard, all the other features become less important. In this article, we will delve into the essential functions of curing lights and what to look for when investing in a new one.

UV LAMPS

One of the four most popular types of lamps is UV lamps. These devices are known for their relatively affordable pricing and long-lasting bulb life.
Even though there are 9-watt foldable options on the market, it's advisable to choose a tunnel-shaped lamp with a minimum power of 36 watts. Such lamps, equipped with four bulbs and an inner surface that reflects light like a mirror, ensure optimal curing of gel or gel polish in about 120 seconds. In contrast, less powerful lamps require significantly more time for the curing process.

UV lamps are primarily recommended for amateurs who prioritize affordability over the time spent on creating intricate nail designs.
LED LAMPS

LED lamps offer a longer lifespan and greater working comfort compared to their predecessors, and they don't emit heat. However, their price is generally higher, which makes them a common choice among professionals.
The key advantage of LED lamps is their significantly shorter curing time, often requiring only 30 seconds for most polishes to cure. But it's crucial to remember that the wavelength of LED light might not cure certain products, so it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions included on the product label.
UV/LED Lamps

UV/LED lamps combine two types of radiation, as the name suggests, by incorporating built-in LEDs with wavelengths of 365 nm and 405 nm. This feature allows these lamps to cure both UV and LED gels, as well as gel polishes, making them highly versatile.
They come in various versions, from small foldable options suitable for curing encapsulated nail art to classic tunnel-shaped lamps like a 48-watt model with LEDs and bulbs emitting red light with a wavelength of 640-660 nm, which has rejuvenating effects and can lighten various skin spots and discolorations.

CURING SPEED

Curing speed is a significant factor when choosing a nail lamp. UV lamps tend to be slower compared to their LED counterparts due to their operation within a broad light spectrum, which necessitates longer curing and drying times. LED lamps, on the other hand, operate within a narrow light spectrum, enabling faster curing, often in 30-60 seconds, whereas UV lamps can take 2-3 minutes to cure.
COST

Budget plays a significant role in selecting a nail lamp. LED lamps are typically pricier than UV lamps but offer greater safety. However, combined UV/LED lamps are available at reasonable prices, providing the functionality of both types of lamps.
LAMP WATTAGE

The wattage of the lamp directly influences curing time. Nail lamps come in a range of wattages, starting from 12W and increasing. Higher-wattage lamps dry and cure more efficiently and quickly. For UV lamps, it's recommended to choose models with at least 20W, while a 12W LED lamp should suffice.

WEIGT AND SIZE

UV and LED lamps are generally lightweight and portable, but LED lamps are typically lighter and smaller in size than UV lamps. For mobile nail technicians seeking portability, LED lamps are a preferable choice.
BULB LIFE

LED and UV lamps differ significantly in bulb life. UV lamps typically need bulb replacement every six months due to a 1000-hour bulb life, whereas LED lamps can last around 50,000 hours without needing bulb replacement.