Confused about UV vs LED nail lamps? Learn the key differences, safety tips, and how to choose the right lamp for your gel nails. Plus, shop our LED lamp and semi-cured gel wraps for salon-quality results at home.
Why Nail Lamps Matter
If you love gel nails, you’ve probably heard about UV and LED lamps. But what’s the difference and does it really matter which one you use? Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just starting your at-home manicure journey, understanding your tools is key to long-lasting, salon-quality results.
UV vs LED: What’s the Difference?
|
Feature |
UV Lamp |
LED Lamp (MANILAB) |
|
Light Type |
Broad-spectrum UV light |
Narrow-spectrum UV light |
|
Curing Time |
2-3 minutes per coat |
60 seconds per coat |
|
Bulb Lifespan |
~1,000 hours |
~50,000 hours |
|
Compatibility |
Works with all gel types |
Works with LED-optimised gels |
|
Energy Efficiency |
Lower |
Higher |
|
Heat Output |
Warmer |
Minimal heat |
Our LED Nail Lamp is compact, efficient, and designed for perfect curing with our semi-cured gel wraps.
Are UV Nail Lamps Safe?
This is one of the most searched questions and for good reason. UV exposure can raise concerns, but here’s the truth:
- Both UV and LED lamps emit UV light, but LED lamps emit a narrower, safer spectrum.
- Dermatologists recommend applying SPF to your hands before curing.
- LED lamps cure faster, reducing overall exposure time.
Our LED lamp is optimised for safety and speed, perfect for regular at-home use.
Can I Use Any Lamp with Any Gel?
Not quite. Some gels are formulated specifically for UV or LED curing. Using the wrong lamp can lead to:
- Incomplete curing (causing peeling or chipping)
- Over-curing (making the gel brittle)
- Wasted time and product
Our semi-cured gel wraps are LED-optimised and require just 60 seconds under our lamp for a perfect finish.
How Long Should I Cure My Gel Nails?
- LED Lamp: 60 seconds per layer
- UV Lamp: 2–3 minutes per layer
Did you know MANILAB’s semi-cured gel nail wraps are already layered with a base coat, colour coat, and top coat, and come 60% cured? This means you only need one 60 second cure for them to set fully, unlike other gel products where curing is required per layer.
Always follow the instructions on your gel product. Over-curing can cause yellowing or brittleness, while under-curing leads to lifting.
What Wattage Should I Look For?
- 6W–48W is ideal for home use.
- Higher wattage = faster curing, but not always better. Too much power can overheat the gel or your skin.
Our Manilab LED Lamp delivers 6W of power - perfectly balanced for safe, even curing.
What do you get when you purchase Manilab’s LED lamp?
- 1x LED Nail Lamp
- 1x USB Cable
- 1x Manual
- DC Power: 6W Max
- Dimensions: 13mm x 67mm x 19mm
Sleek, portable, and powerful - everything you need for flawless nails in minutes.
Ready to Upgrade Your Nail Game?
Pair our LED lamp with our semi-cured gel wraps for a salon-quality manicure that’s fast, safe, and stunning.
👉 Explore Semi-Cured Gel Wraps
