Maximize Your Gel Nails with the Best Nail Lamp

I actually talked about nail lamps in one of my monthly newsletters, and today I wanted to bring that convo over here and share it with you—because this is one of the most common questions I get:

What’s the best nail lamp to invest in? Which one am I using?

Understanding UV/LED Nail Lamps

If you’ve ever shopped for a nail lamp, you’ve probably seen a ton of options labeled as UV, LED, or UV/LED. But what does that even mean? I’m not a pro at breaking down a nail lamp but I’ll talk a little bit about what it takes to have your gels cure correctly.   Most modern lamps are UV/LED, meaning they can cure gels that require either type of light. UV lamps typically emit wavelengths in the range of 365-380nm, while LED lamps emit around 395-405nm. When curing gel, it all comes down to the photo-initiators in the products—these are the ingredients that react to light and make the gels harden. Different gels require different wavelengths to cure properly.  If you’re using Japanese gels, it is recommended that you use lamps that gives you both 365nm UV and 405nm LED for the best results.

 My Personal Experience with Nail Lamps

I started with the Gelish lamp, and while it served me well for 7 plus years, I noticed over time that it wasn’t curing as effectively. Manufacturers generally recommend replacing your nail lamp every 2–3 years for the best performance, and I do completely agree with trying your best to replace it.

When I upgraded, I invested in the Kokoist Le Blanc Hybrid Nail Lamp—and let me tell you, the difference was night and day! This lamp is powerful, gives off wavelengths between 365–405nm, and allows you to adjust the power to avoid those annoying heat spikes. If you’re using Japanese gels regularly, this lamp is a fantastic investment. Need I say that it is cordless, so its super easy to move from doing manicures to pedicures. 

Now, I know not everyone is ready to drop a ton of money on a high-end lamps, and that’s totally okay. If you’re buying one from Amazon or a more budget-friendly option, my biggest recommendation is to get one with a mirror base. The mirror inside helps bounce light from all angles, ensuring a more even cure. White plastic bases are fine as well but in my opinion a mirror base helps your nails cures more evenly from all angles, reducing the chance of under-cured gels which leads to lifting and chipping.

What to Look for in a Nail Lamp

Before making a decision, take a second to think about what you need. Do you want a lamp that helps prevent heat spikes? Maybe you need a cordless one for convenience? Or do you just need something reliable that won’t break the bank?

No matter what, do your research and make sure the lamp you choose supports the gels you’re using. Always check that the lamp emits the right wavelengths, at least 365nm UV and 405nm LED, and has at least 36W of power for effective curing.

Investing in a good nail lamp is one of the best things you can do for your gel nails. If you like this post, just a little heads up—I actually share tips like this in my monthly newsletter before they ever make it to the blog. From business advice to nail tech tips and personal insights, the newsletter is where I really dive deep and get into the good stuff. If you’re not on the list yet, now’s the time!