The Importance of Using the Correct UV/LED Lamp with UV Gels

Kornél Fenyvesi
Jun 13
3 min read

Introduction

When it comes to gel manicures, the tools and products you use play a crucial role in achieving the desired results. A key component is the UV/LED lamp, which is used to cure the gel polish. Using the correct lamp for the specific gel is essential to ensure optimal results, longevity, and safety of the manicure.

Understanding UV and LED Lamps

UV and LED lamps cure gel polish by emitting light at specific wavelengths. UV lamps have a broad spectrum, while LED lamps have a narrow one. The choice of lamp depends on the gel polish formulation, but both emit UV light.

The Science Behind Curing

Gel polish contains photo-initiators that react to UV or LED light, causing the gel to harden and adhere to the nail. If the correct lamp is not used, the photo-initiators may not activate properly, leading to incomplete curing. This can result in a manicure that is prone to chipping, peeling, or not fully setting.

Why It Matters: Ensuring Proper Curing

Using the right UV/LED lamp ensures that the gel polish cures fully and evenly. Proper curing is crucial for several reasons:

Durability: Fully cured gel polish is more durable and resistant to chipping and peeling.
Longevity: A correctly cured gel manicure lasts longer, maintaining its shine and integrity.
Aesthetic Quality: Proper curing ensures a smooth, glossy finish without sticky residue when using cleanse free gels. It also prevents yellowing or discolouration.
Nail Health: Incomplete curing can expose nails and skin to chemicals that may cause irritation or damage and can potentially lead to allergic contact dermatitis.

Choosing the Right Lamp

When selecting a UV/LED lamp, consider the following factors:

Gel Type: Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the correct lamp type. Reputable manufacturers conduct extensive testing to ensure proper curing.
Wavelength of UV light: The light emitted from UV/LED lamps is measured in nanometres. If the wavelength does not meet the specifications needed to cure the gel, under curing may result.
Timer Settings: Adjustable timer settings allow for precise curing times based on the gel polish and curing time recommendations.
Electrical Components: The electrical components of the lamp are crucial in determining the intensity of the emitted light. Inadequate intensity of UV light can result in insufficient curing.

Compatibility with Gel Polish

Not all gel polishes are compatible with both UV and LED lamps. Some are specifically formulated for one type of light. Using a lamp that is incompatible with the gel can result in poor curing and unsatisfactory results.

Safety Considerations

Using the correct UV/LED lamp is also important for safety. Incomplete curing can lead to exposure to uncured chemicals, which may cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. Properly cured gel polish minimizes the risk of these issues.

Common Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions about UV and LED lamps that need to be addressed:

One Lamp Fits All: Not all lamps can cure all types of gel polish. It's essential to use the lamp recommended by the gel polish manufacturer.
Higher Wattage Always Better: Wattage is ONLY how much electrical power the lamp consumes and is NOT a measure of the UV intensity or the lamps’ ability to cure gels.
UV Lamps Are Unsafe: UV lamps are safe when used correctly and with the proper gel polish. LED lamps are often preferred for their efficiency and lower heat output.

Conclusion

The importance of using the correct UV/LED lamp with the gel you use cannot be overstated. Ensuring proper curing is vital for the durability, longevity, and aesthetic quality of the manicure, as well as the health and safety of your nails and surrounding skin. By understanding the science behind curing and following manufacturer recommendations, you can achieve professional-quality gel manicures that are both beautiful and safe.

Why do we recommend the Brillbird LED/UV lamp?

It is important to remember not all gels cure properly in all lamps. UV Lamps (meaning those with LED bulbs and traditional florescent style bulbs) all have different intensity of light, different wavelength of UV light and have different electrical components which are all very important factors in providing a proper cure.

The Brillbird Lamp is a 365–405nm lamp with 24 LED bulbs, set at the right intensity to cure all Brillbird gels. It comes with several timing settings, hand sensor, a removable base and it has a low heat function for customers with sensitive nails. If low heat mode is used... you need to cure the nail for an extra 30 seconds from the recommended time.