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Weekly trips to the salon for a regular manicure are a wonderful treat, but it can be hard to make time for them. Gel manicures cost a pretty penny yet last much longer and are less prone to smudging and chipping. The simple solution to all your woes? Getting your hands on your very own UV lamp—and the one for you is just a click away.
DIY manicures have become more popular than ever, and brands have been launching dip powder kits and new-and-improved press-on sets to meet the demand. Although you do have to put some work into mastering the process, at-home gel manicures are one of the best alternatives to salon visits. However, one major piece of equipment you must invest in if you want to dive into the gel world is a UV nail lamp. “The light emits UV wavelengths that hit molecules in the gel called photoinitiators, or compounds, that absorb light and convert it into the energy needed to drive the polymerization process,” explains Molly Romah, lead nail artist at NYC-based spa Chillhouse. “When the light from the UV waves bonds with those molecules, it activates them, making the gel cure into a hard plastic.” But it is important to remember that your hands will repeatedly be exposed to harmful UV rays, you should always protect your precious hands and fingers with a top-tier sunscreen beforehand and moisturize them with a hand cream after each manicure.
Here, we investigated online and read through countless customer reviews to chase down the 15 best UV lamps for at-home gel manicures, from standard lamps you’ve probably seen at your salon to portable flashlights and mini lights that let you focus on one nail at a time. We also consulted Romah and dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara to find out all about at-home nail lamps and how we should utilize them.
1
Best for Comfort
SUNUV 48W UV LED Nail Dryer Light for Gel Nails
Pros
Hand pillow at top
Cons
- Nails may need a few passes
Thanks to 48W high-power LED beads designed for even and quick gel curing, dry time is a breeze. The large opening allows up to five fingernails or toenails to be dried at once, and a pink hand pillow at the top makes polishing more comfortable.
Weight: 2.3 lbs
Battery: Cord plug-in
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “My eyes love to wander whenever I’m at a nail salon. Which polish is the best? What lotion are they using for the hand massage? What UV lamp are they using to keep my gel intact for weeks? For the latter question, it’s this Amazon bestseller. I spotted it in my go-to salon and needed it for at-home maintenance ASAP. As much as I love sitting quietly in a salon chair doing my nails for up to an hour, nothing beats doing my nails in the comfort of my home. This lamp cures most gel polishes in a flash—or 10, 30, 60, or 90 seconds, depending on what your nail polish indicates—without any painful hot sparks. The bottom plate is removable in case you want to add some gel polish to your toes for a quick pedi.” —Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Multiple timer settings
Cons
- Sensor can be sensitive
Bypass buttons with the automatic sensors of this popular Amazon pick. An extra spacious drying chamber allows both hands to be cured simultaneously by 36 high-power LED bulbs. The box also has nail accessories, such as buffing blocks and nail files, to create the picture-perfect mani.
Weight: 1.94 lbs
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
Battery: Cord plug-in
An Amazon reviewer says: “This lamp worked perfectly for my gel fill and gel OPI polish change. I like how it will turn on when you put your hand inside and will stay on for one minute and 20 seconds. It also has the option to use 10, 30, or 60 seconds with the push of a button. It has a nice-sized opening, so I wasn’t worried about messing up my nails (or toenails) when inserting them into the light. It’s not heavy, and the top snaps on or off to make it easy to clean.”
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Pros
- Two-hand dryer
Cons
- Longer drying time
Big enough for both hands—or both feet—this 150-watt lamp has multiple timer modes, a motion sensor, and detachable plates to ensure every inch of your nail will be dried evenly.
Weight: 15.2 oz
Battery: Cord plug-in
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Lamp is very lightweight and made a huge difference in how long my at-home gel polish lasts. I can easily get more than two weeks out of a manicure with just a little chipping. The higher wattage is the key!”
Pros
- Flash cures each nails effectively
Cons
- Heavy
Gone are the days of twisting and turning your fingers under a five-hand lamp to ensure the entire nail is dried. This flash cure light from Apres fits firmly in your hands to give each finger the same time to dry before one last cure under a larger lamp. Small but mighty, this nifty gadget holds up to four hours of charge, which makes it the ultimate gift for a fully booked nail tech.
Weight: 0.55 lbs
Battery: Rechargeable
Apres rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Apres reviewer says: “I liked this little light. It’s easy to use and I love that it’s rechargeable and wireless. It makes it more convenient to flash cure without having to maneuver the person’s finger into awkward positions. Always had trouble with air bubbles because of this.”
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Pros
- Reduces heat spikes
Cons
- Can only do one hand at a time
Touted as the “most reliable light ever,” Gelish’s 36-watt UV lamp works best with its Gelish soak-off polishes, but can still deliver fast results in just 60 seconds. Thanks to its Comfort Cure technology, you won’t feel the flash of heat you’ve likely experienced from other UV lamps.
Weight: 3.7 lbs
Battery: Cord plug-in
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve had my machine for four years now, and it still works great! I’m a professional nail tech, and I’ll definitely rebuy this machine again.”
Pros
- Reduces heat spikes
Cons
- Sensor can be sensitive
With a strong 48W light, this lamp also features thoughtful details that’ll make your mani or pedi easier to complete, including a clear LCD display, four timer settings, and a handy countdown function.
Weight: 13.44 oz
Battery: Cord plug-in
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “It’s powerful and cures fast yet does not give that burning/hot feeling on my hands. I also like that it has a sensor so you can place both hands at a time, and you don’t have to press anything for the light to turn on.”
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Pros
- Dries nails fast
Cons
- Can have a bit of a learning curve
Doing your nails means carving out some time for yourself, but that doesn’t mean you want to wait forever for them to dry. Let us introduce you to this 30-watt LED light that’s made to cure all your fingers or toes in 30 seconds.
Weight: 1.98 lbs
Battery: Cord plug-in
Ulta rating: 3.7/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I am a beginner nail tech, and this is perfect. It cures extremely well, is easy to carry around, and it’s sleek and stylish, too.”
8
Best for the Tech Snob
OPI Dual Cure LED Light UV Gel Nail Polish Curing Lamp
Now 20% Off
Pros
- Two light frequencies
Cons
- Can have a learning curve
The nail pros at OPI created this 30-watt, salon-favorite lamp using two different light frequencies, a spacious drying chamber, and LG technology. The price tag is worth the professional-grade results.
Weight: 4.4 lbs
Battery: Cord plug-in
Walmart rating: 2.3/5 stars
A Walmart reviewer said: “My clients love how roomy it is inside, the handle is GREAT for moving and handling purposes, and it looks very professional and clean. Also, there’s ample room for clients to rest on top as I polish.”
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9
Best for Aspiring Nail Artists
Beyond Pro Rechargeable LED Lamp Volume II
Pros
- Rechargeable
Cons
- Some reviewers wish battery life was longer
A professional-grade UV lamp, Kiara Sky’s 48-watt iteration is powered by LG technology and rechargeable so that you can work for hours without long, tangled cords getting in your way. Plus, the bubble pink packaging elevates any working station.
Weight: 4.55 lbs
Battery: Rechargeable
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This works so much better than my old nail lamp and dries super fast! Looks so pretty and sleek.”
Pros
- Nails last longer
Cons
- Expensive
Offering a solid 36 watts of power, CND’s sleek nail lamp is a new and improved version that boasts preset controls for each gel manicure step, is equipped with no-fail bulbs, and has acetone resistance. It’s also designed for easy pedicures, thanks to its removable base plates.
Weight: 5 lbs
Battery: Cord plug-in
Walmart rating: 4.6/5 stars
A Walmart reviewer says: “I’ve used this once along with CND gels. Six days and no lifting. I originally used Gelish with a cheap lamp, and my polish lifted and turned yellow. So far, no lifting. It’s very clear and shiny. I highly recommend.”
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Pros
- Super affordable
Cons
- Curing can take longer
Don’t let this mini nail lamp fool you. While you can tote it anywhere, thanks to its compact size, the six-watt style can get the job done. Plus, it has three versatile time settings and is incredibly affordable.
Weight: 1.76 oz
Battery: Cord plug-in
Amazon rating: 3.9/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This little light is small enough to fit inside my nail polish bag and take on the go. It works beautifully, and there is a timer, so there’s no need to stress whether you’ve left your fingers under the light long enough.”
Pros
- Comes complete with tools and accessories
Cons
- Can be time-consuming
Is there anything cuter than this mini UV lamp shaped like a macaron? This kit also has a mini gel polish, cuticle stick, nail file, and remover wraps.
Weight: 0.33 lbs
Battery: Cord plug-in
Amazon rating: 3.9/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “Took this on vacation; this will be in my emergency travel kit for sure. It’s super easy to use; just apply and cure. No mess, and it doesn’t take up any space in luggage. Gel stays on for a couple of weeks, and it’s easy to take off with the acetone wipes and file that come with it.”
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Pros
- Great for curing gel extensions
Cons
- Takes longer than a full-hand lamp
If you like to give every nail its own moment, this mini lamp ensures each one is properly and evenly cured, especially for those who prefer gel extensions. A built-in sensor guarantees you don’t have to fiddle with any on/off buttons either.
Weight: 0.25 lbs
Battery: Cord plug-in
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This makes it so easy to hold tips in place while curing. I wish I could give it more stars.”
Pros
- Handheld
Cons
- Needs batteries
This UV light may be compact, but it cures more than nails on the go. For nail artists skilled at applying embellishments and accessories, this handheld lamp lets you get up close and personal with your nails to keep all rhinestones and charms intact.
Weight: 1.44 oz
Battery: AAA
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “It’s great for fixing any mistakes when you’re on the go or even for travel purposes. I tested it out while doing nail art on one of my tip stand holders, and it was amazing. I could focus on one nail without worrying about plugging in my nail lamp and holding it over my nail tip stand. I love the pink color, too.”
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Pros
- Rechargeable
Cons
- May not be acetone-proof
Powered by a USB cable, this UV lamp is compact and portable enough for travel. The battery lasts up to three hours, so you can cure your nails as you watch, pause, and rewind your favorite movie.
Weight: 5.82 oz
Battery: Rechargeable
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “What was I doing before this product? This is one of the best things I’ve purchased in a long time. I love that it has a 30-second and a 60-second setting. It’s easy to hold and works fast. I’m so happy.”
Meet the Experts
Dr. Mona Gohara is a board-certified dermatologist and Dove dermatologist spokesperson.
Molly Romah is the lead nail artist at NYC-based spa Chillhouse.
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Is it safe to use UV light on nails?
“According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, both LED and UV lamps used for nail grooming emit ultraviolet (UV) light,” says Dr. Gohara. “They primarily are sources of UVA, which is a risk factor for aging and skin cancer. That said, the risk is considered moderate and significantly less than the risk incurred from a tanning booth.”
To help minimize potential risks and protect the skin, Dr. Gohara suggests taking a few precautions. “Keep your skin barrier strong by using gentle cleansers that moisturize as they cleanse,” she says. “I love the Dove Deep Moisture Hand Wash, followed by further strengthening of the skin barrier by using a corresponding lotion (she also recommends Dove’s Sensitive Care Hand Cream). Also, wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply 20 minutes before your treatment.”
Is a LED or UV lamp better for gel nails?
According to Romah, the answer really comes down to personal preference. “When you decide to choose between an LED and UV nail lamp, you should focus not only on your budget, but also on what you want to accomplish,” Romah says. Although typically more expensive, LED lamps cure gel nails faster than UV lamps—which can be a plus if you tend to be impatient or short on time. “LED lamps emit narrower UV wavelengths than UV lamps with higher concentration and more energy,” she explains. “These light-emitting diodes target specific photoinitiators in the gel polish, which enables the gel to cure much faster than UV lamps.”
Also, remember that LED lamps tend to last longer, while the bulbs in UV lamps often need replacing. However, not all gel polishes can be cured by LED lamps. “Salons that use strong gels like UV gel, or hard gels, will likely use UV lamps, which cure all gels,” she says. “UV lamps are also more effective at curing clear gel nails.”
As far as Romah’s favorite type of device? “I like LED lamps better because they dry faster, save time on getting gel manicures done, and last longer,” she says. “But that’s also because I only work with soak gels.”
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Should I be concerned about the wattage of LED and UV nail lamps?
According to Romah, most professional LED and UV nail lamps are at least 36 watts, while some UV lamps have more than 36 watts, depending on the brand. “I just suggest looking for LED lamps with less time exposure to the light,” she says. “It should take five to 30 seconds to cure a base coat and 30 to 60 seconds to cure colors or a top coat.”
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Why Trust ELLE Beauty
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, editor Sam Peters spoke with trusted nail experts about UV nail lamps. She and beauty writer Carol Lee also searched the internet for top-rated UV nail lamps, perused reviews for dozens of popular options, and evaluated each on their features and customer reviews.
Sam Peters
Senior Commerce Editor
Sam Peters is a Senior Commerce Editor at Hearst covering fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Her writing has appeared in WWD, Footwear News, Real Simple, PopSugar and Bridal Guide, among others. She enjoysunpacking the latest trends and testing and reviewing some of the most innovative, emerging products on the market.
Carol Lee
Associate E-Commerce Writer
Carol Lee is the Associate E-Commerce Writer at ELLE.com, where she covers all things beauty and personal care. Before joining the team, she was an editor at Food Network Magazine and HGTV Magazine and ran the beauty section at The Pioneer Woman. Carol received her bachelor’s degree in Journalism from New York University and was one of the first customers to visit Glossier’s flagship store in New York’s Soho neighborhood. Over the years, she’s tested countless makeup, hair, and skin care products, and written hundreds of articles covering the beauty space, from pieces about the trendiest launches to roundups of the best products on the market. As a Korean-American, she grew up in a sea of Korean makeup and skin care products and is a bona fide expert on the ever-expanding world of K-beauty, helping lead our coverage. Additionally, she’s also always on the hunt for the perfect lipstick and watches the same few comfort sitcoms (Frasier, Cheers, Seinfeld, New Girl, etc.) over and over again.
