The 16 Best UV Nail Lamps for At-Home Manicures

“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 being said, the risk is considered moderate and significantly less than the risk that is incurred from a tanning booth.”

To help minimize potential risk 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 recommends Dove’s Sensitive Care Hand Cream as well). Also, wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply 20 minutes before your treatment.”

Whether from a UV or LED source, gel nail polish must be cured with UV light. “This 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 Romah. “When the light from the UV waves bonds with those molecules, it activates them, making the gel cure into a hard plastic.”

According to Romah, the answer really comes down to personal preference. “When you decide to choose between a LED and UV nail lamp, you should focus not only on your budget, but also on what you want to accomplish,” Romah says. LED lamps, although typically more expensive, 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, keep in mind 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 gel manicures service, and last longer,” she says. “But that’s also because I only work with soak gels.”

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.”