Regular nail polish will always be a mainstay for me, but I also don’t see myself breaking up with gel manicures anytime soon. Once cured, the versatility and durability of gel polishes are second to none—and it all starts with a few minutes under the light of one of the best UV lamps for nails.
“Curing is one of the most important parts of the manicure or pedicure transformation process. When the product formula is specifically calibrated to the light energy output of the lamp, proper adhesion, wear, and removal are assured,” CND co-founder and style director Jan Arnold tells Bazaar.
Shop the Best UV Lamps for Nails
Depending on your preference, both UV and LED lamps make it easy for manicured nails to dry down effortlessly, and minimize the threat of an accidental polish smudge. “UV and LED professional nail service curing lamps operate similarly, where the gel layer is applied to all five nails before the hand is placed into the lamp for curing,” Arnold continues. “UV light requires a slightly longer curing time, while LED light cures the gel faster. The result is the same, provided that the gel used is precisely calibrated to the light output of the lamp. After curing, the liquid gel transforms into a solid film, preparing the nails for the application of the next layer.”
We’ll rarely turn down an opportunity for a professional nail look, but many of the best UV lights for nails are nicely optimized for at-home use, and won’t burn a hole in your wallet (especially since many on this list are priced at under $50). From top-rated accessories designed to dry two hands at a time to more portable options that easily fold up and fit in your carry-on, we asked professionals and scrolled through hundreds of satisfied customer reviews to narrow down some of the very best lamps that dry down your favorite polish in a literal flash.
Pros
Available in two wattage options- Spacious
Cons
- Not ideal for travel
This nail lamp features three timer options to choose from to dry polish fast, starting at 30 seconds and laddering up to 90. It also includes an LCD display and removable magnetic tray spacious enough to cure both hands at the same time—talk about a time saver.
One satisfied customer writes: “I got one of those tiny lamps with a gel starter kit and let me tell you that does not cure the gel properly. Works great no issues. Long cord to plug in easily and having the 90-second timer for a slower full cure is a must.” —Amber
Pros
- Spacious
- Easy to use
Cons
- Features a combination of UV and LED lights that some users may not prefer
Featuring a near-perfect rating on Amazon and over 49,000 customer reviews, this best-selling nail lamp uses a built-in sensor and adjustable timer to cut down on drying time. And did we mention it’s on rare sale right now for 34 percent off?
One satisfied customer writes: “I’ve been using this UV light to cure my gel nails at home. It’s light, works great and is small enough to store easily. I use gel nail polish and this lamp, I don’t feel the need to go to a salon again! Woohoo.” —Kayla W.
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Pros
- Includes a set of nail tools and polishes
Cons
- May not be ideal for travel
Not only does this versatile kit include a powerful UV lamp, but it also contains all the staples you'll need for a flawless manicure or pedicure. From files and clippers to a range of gel polish for your base, color, and top coats, this kit has just about everything.
One satisfied customer writes: “The lamp is easy to use, the cord is a good length, there is a good amount of room for you hand, the buttons are simple, overall good. I like the colors in the set. I am SO glad I bought this and will definitely be using it a lot and saving money by not going to nail salon!” —Angell
Pros
- Popular on Amazon
Cons
This powerful device has a voltage of up to 40 watts and uses a soft light in its drying process to minimize skin tanning. It must also be a hit among Amazon’s nail lovers since it currently holds over 55,000 customer reviews and a 4.5-star rating.
One satisfied customer writes: “I have had several lamps through the years. This one for the money is by far the best I have purchased on Amazon! Great lamp, easy to use!” —Anonymous
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Pros
- Features beads on top and sides of lamp
Cons
The handle on this UV lamp makes it a breeze to seamlessly move from room to room. Plus, it uses a dual light source to dry a wide variety of gel polish—from Shellac to more sculptural gel work.
One satisfied customer writes: “This is a very good lamp. It’s powerful so you spend less time under it to cure nails. I wish I’d seen it and paid attention to wattage before buying like three others that aren’t nearly as effective. Great lamp for a great price. Highly recommend!” —Anonymous
Pros
- Features an ergonomic design
Cons
- Can only cure one hand at a time
Here’s an LED lamp option from the experts at CND that uses up to 200 volts of power to dry manicures or pedicures quickly. It also includes an easy-to-clean magnetic tray that provides an even distribution of light and heat.
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Pros
- Works for hands and feet
Cons
Here’s another UV lamp with a handle that uses up to 80 watts of power to dry manicures quickly. It also features a magnetic, removable bottom that makes it easier to clean and more spacious when drying down polish on your toenails, too.
One satisfied customer writes: “This light is amazing! My other one gave out on me so I needed a new one and I’m glad I chose this one, it’s nice and spacious, it’s quick, and the reflective bottom makes sure curing gets all the way through! It’s also super high quality. I recommend it for sure!” —Courtney P.
Pros
- Features a compact design
Cons
- Only cures one hand/foot at a time
This streamlined UV lamp turns on with the touch of a button, and uses an automatic sensor to power up when you’re ready to dry. It also has a lower wattage than other devices at 24, which helps minimize potential skin damage.
One satisfied customer writes: “For a ‘cheaper’ UV nail lamp, this is a great option! Small, but big enough for your whole hand, easy to store and use, and has worked well. Thrilled with the value for the price.” —Calie C.
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Pros
- Under $10
- Travel-ready
Cons
- Not rechargeable—must be attached to an outlet to use
This top-rated drying device can fit in the palm of your hand, and is practically a steal at under $10 (plus an additional 30 percent off). At just 0.11 pounds, it nicely fits in a tote bag or carry-on, just in case you need a quick mani change while on the go.
One satisfied customer writes: “Small, portable and works great.” —Harmony J.
Pros
- Contains dual light source for faster drying
Cons
- Not ideal for travel
The domelike design of this lamp contains 39 lamp beads for a salon-worthy finish. It also prevents light from leaking out while you use it, helping to protect your eyes and skin from potential UV damage.
One satisfied customer writes: “Exactly what I needed. Works great for gel nails.” —Amelia P.
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Pros
- Spacious
Cons
- Not ideal for travel
Dry both hands (or feet!) at once with this roomy device that contains 57 LED bulbs that last for up to 50,000 hours—talk about bang for your buck. It even uses infrared sensors to sense your hands and feet, which automatically turn off its curing lights when they’re not in use.
One satisfied customer writes: “This product got here super fast and is so easy to use, I was able to get the ‘fresh out of the nail salon’ look and I’m so happy.” —Shanti
Pros
- Feature three timer options for a customized dry
- Travel-friendly
Cons
This curved UV lamp automatically activates when it senses your hand or foot, and switches between a regular and lower temperature level if it senses its light is too hot for your skin. And as a bonus, it’s extremely budget-worthy at under $10.
One satisfied customer writes: “Great product. Lightweight, easy to use. I highly recommend.” —Yoshiko L.
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Meet the experts
- Jan Arnold is the co-founder and style director of CND.
- Dr. Sheila Farhang, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and CND brand advocate.
How long is considered safe for users to keep their hands under a nail lamp?
While the light that emits from one of the best nail lamps can seem intense, experts say the process is considered safe as exposure time is minimal during a service conducted every two to three weeks. "The light output is comparable to a brief walk to the mailbox and back within that time frame," Arnold continues. "The safety levels of the output have been thoroughly tested and confirmed by Dr. Robert Sayer, creator of the SPF rating system. In cases where clients have extreme sensitivity to light, the Nail Professional should place a cloth over the top of the hand during curing when necessary. However, the service is comfortable and efficient for most clients, ensuring a positive experience."
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What are some tips to strengthen nails before and after applying gel polish?
“If you have weak nails, manicures can help decrease breakage. Keeping your nails coated can give them extra strength and protection from environmental damage," board-certified dermatologist Sheila Farhang explains. "Problems often result from incorrect preparation or removal of the service, not the product itself. Depending on the service your nail pro recommends, every two to four weeks is best to upkeep your nails."
Shop more Bazaar-approved nail favorites:
- The Best Nail Drills for Expert-Level Buffing and Shaping
- The Essential Nail Kits for Your Best Manicure, Ever
- Why Is It So Hard to Break Up with Gel Nail Polish?
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