Ultraviolet nail lamp: how to use. Using a UV lamp to dry nails: safety rules General characteristics of a UV lamp for nails


We once purchased a lamp for drying gel, but only with a power of 9 W. We didn’t use it for long, because after a certain time I realized that I needed much more powerful one. Therefore I had to order for 36 w. The gel dries, of course, much faster than 9w, about 2 minutes. The difference between the 36w and 9w lamps is that the first has 4 lamps of 9 w = 36w and a larger housing.

This lamp came to me in bubble wrap, which was packed in regular cellophane. Additional cardboard inserts were installed in the corners. I additionally asked about this so that the corners would not be knocked off during transportation to my address, because at the post office they throw our parcels at random. I think everyone has already heard about this. As a result, it arrived safe and sound, not a single scratch.

The quality of the plastic is good. Another good thing is that it doesn’t stink like we’re used to.
from China goods to the corresponding specific smell. Even when plugged in, there was no smell from it.
Having turned it in my hands and carefully examined it, I did not find any defects in the plastic molding, as well as any backlash or careless assembly. There are no huge gaps or sharp edges of plastic at the joints of the body. The body itself is matte plastic with a slight roughness, streamlined.

Having removed the factory film that was glued to the internal reflectors, various kinds of scratches and other errors (irregularities, bulges, etc.) were absent on them.
The reflectors hold tightly, do not wobble or fall off the body.

It has two modes: the main constant one and the timer button, which sets 120 seconds and then turns itself off. It’s very convenient in my opinion; you don’t have to think about drying time. I turned on the timer, turned it off and everything was ready, the gel was completely dry.

The gel polymerizes evenly both in constant mode and on a timer set for 120 seconds. It doesn’t take up much space on the table, it’s quite compact, measuring 245 x 230 x 90 mm. It’s not very heavy in weight ~ 1 kg and a penny. Of course, it is a little more than nine-watt, but not by much. I wasn’t particularly concerned about the dimensions; my table is large)).

The timer button itself is red, the on/off button is black. They are installed in the case quite reliably, do not wobble or fall out. So, to turn it on in permanent mode, you need to press the on/off button toward you, i.e., on the icon of two circles. If a timer is needed, it is turned on as follows: by first pressing the on/off button. away from you (the Timer On sign), and then the timer button once and it all turned on. After automatic shutdown, you will need to press the on/off button to the “middle” position.
I’m also happy with the power cord, it’s quite tightly braided, the plug itself is also normal, nothing like Chinese-made Christmas tree garlands. The power cord coming out of the lamp body has not yet broken during all the time of use, the entire braiding is intact. The plug is standard, suitable for our sockets.

At the bottom of the case there are rubber pins installed in the corners that prevent sliding on the table, they are attached to the case normally, perhaps they are simply well glued or inserted into the case, I don’t know how I didn’t want to pick them for the sake of interest. The main thing is that everything is still in place, nothing has fallen off.

The tray itself, where the hand rests, is retractable. Apparently this was done for more convenient replacement/installation of lamps in their sockets, as well as for wiping away debris, etc. I got it dirty, took it out, wiped it and that’s it. It moves effortlessly along specially cast grooves on the left and right sides.

The lamps came in a separate cardboard package and were placed inside the lamp (in a place for the hand). So that they arrive intact, without defects (all are burning). Were clogged with a thick layer of bubbly

It is impossible to make gel nail polish without special tools and devices. The most important stage gel manicure is drying, which is carried out with a special device with ultraviolet radiation. The variety of such devices today is very large and it depends on what type of lamp is used in the device.

What it is

The device for drying gel polish is a small device with a niche for fingers, inside of which there are lamps. These lamps generate ultraviolet radiation, which changes the molecular structure of the gel or gel polish and promotes its rapid hardening.

What types exist

With the development of lighting technology, several types of devices for drying gels and gel polishes have appeared, which equipped different types lamps and have different specifications . Our short review will help you determine which lamps are best for drying gel polish.

Starter kit for covering nails with gel polish with lamp

The set includes:

  • device for drying nails;
  • nail files and buffs;
  • base and top;
  • several types of gel polish;
  • means for preparing nails for coating;
  • gel polish remover.

Gel polish drying device with fluorescent lamps

Main characteristics:

  • low price;
  • service life up to 10,000 hours;
  • the lamp has a limited number of switches;
  • strong heating of the lamp and device (up to 50 degrees);
  • towards the end of the lamp’s service life, the gel polish may dry poorly and curl;
  • sensitive to voltage changes in the network;
  • the stroboscopic effect has a bad effect on vision;
  • There are devices with electronic switching lamps and with induction switching lamps.

Devices with electronic switching lamps are cheap, weigh up to 1 kg, turn on instantly, but react to power surges in the network. Devices with induction lamps have a higher price, weigh up to 2 kg, turn on after a few seconds, but are more reliable and not sensitive to voltage changes.

Gel polish drying device with CCFL UV lamps

Main characteristics:

  • equipped with ultraviolet cold cathode lamps in the form of a spiral or zigzag;
  • service life up to 80,000 hours;
  • the lamps do not get very hot;
  • energy saving;
  • Gel polishes do not curl during polymerization.

Device for drying gel polish with ice lamps (LED)

Main characteristics:

  • have a high price;
  • equipped with LED lamps;
  • service life up to 100,000 hours;
  • energy saving;
  • efficiency;
  • environmental Safety;
  • no flickering effect harmful to the eyes;
  • safe for skin;
  • instant on;
  • unlimited number of inclusions;
  • LEDs do not heat up;
  • do not burn;
  • polymerize in 10-30 seconds;
  • do not cause burning during polymerization;
  • do not polymerize solid gels.

CCFL+LED hybrid gel polish drying device

Main characteristics:

  • have a high price;
  • equipped with LED lamps and CCFL lamps;
  • service life up to 100,000 hours;
  • energy saving;
  • efficiency;
  • safe for skin;
  • instant on;
  • unlimited number of inclusions;
  • do not heat up;
  • do not burn;
  • polymerize several times faster than other types of devices;
  • do not cause burning during polymerization;
  • even a thick layer of gel polish does not curl during polymerization;
  • They also polymerize solid gels.

How to use a lamp to dry gel polish at home

Using devices for drying manicure with gel polish is very simple:

How to choose the right lamp for drying gel polish

When choosing a device for drying gel nail coating, we recommend, first of all, focus on its convenience and quality of results. Here are the basic principles for choosing these devices that you can focus on when purchasing:

  1. Choose a famous one already trusted manufacturer.
  2. The high price indicates the use of new technologies.
  3. Usage LED lamps will provide you with economical energy consumption when using the device frequently.
  4. The speed of polymerization will save time.
  5. Long service life of the lamps in the device will ensure saving money on replacing them.
  6. Easy to replace lamps– this is ease of use.
  7. The absence of heating of the lamps and the device itself will ensure its safety of use.
  8. The ability to polymerize any gel coating will allow you to diversify the types of manicure.
  9. Lamp type has influence on the quality of polymerization. For example, LED lamps cannot polymerize solid gels.
  10. The presence of a timer will allow you to strictly follow the gel manicure technology.
  11. Lack of sensitivity to voltage changes will ensure stable and uninterrupted operation of the device.
  12. Retractable platform will allow the gel coating to dry on your toes as well.

Most modern fashionistas have already appreciated the benefits and accessibility of home manicure and are successfully mastering its secrets on their own. A great help in this matter will be the purchase of innovative ultraviolet lamps for drying nails.

What types of these devices exist, the main nuances the right choice, as well as instructions for using the lamp at home - our article will tell you about all this.

What is an ultraviolet lamp - types, how they differ, how to choose and which one to buy

Drying the applied coating will become much faster and better. Some modern varnishes harden only when such lamps are used. Gels and other coatings, on the contrary, will dry exclusively in certain categories of such devices.

In general, the use of such lamps has become more of a tribute to fashion and an opportunity to perform a professional manicure at home. For most buyers, such lamps have also become a good source of additional income, for example, when performing custom manicures at home.

The type of device is determined by the type of light sources used; among the most common are ultraviolet, LED gas light and combined lamps for drying nails. Detailed review Each type is presented below.

The design itself also has several significant differences; in addition, lamps are distinguished according to several characteristic features.

First of all, this is possible use in the mass or home sphere.

Professional equipment is much more powerful and has a longer service life, while lamps for home use are relatively inexpensive and of average power.

Typically, the lamp body is designed to accommodate only one hand (or foot if we are talking about a pedicure). There are models with an enlarged hole that can fit two palms or feet at once. This is very convenient for serving more clients, as it saves time and energy costs. Home models are rarely equipped with an enlarged body.

The placement of lamps inside the equipment is an important indicator. In order for the use of the lamp to be as safe as possible, it is advisable to maintain a comfortable distance from the skin to the heating element. Moreover, this distance should not be too large so that the drying efficiency is also at a high level.

Some lamps are equipped with additional devices. First of all, it is a retractable panel with replaceable elements for easy replacement of burnt-out ones. The model can also be equipped with a built-in timer, which greatly facilitates the operation of the device. The lamp can be equipped with a retractable bottom for more comfortable drying.

There are many original designs of such lamps, which will also be reflected in the cost of the equipment. If you do not take into account the configuration and color, the price of the lamp will mainly be influenced by the manufacturer's brand and the heating element used, as well as the professional orientation of the device.

Watch the video: how to choose a UV lamp, characteristics and comparison

Ultraviolet (luminescent)

These devices can be classified as the first generation of this equipment. UV lamps are relatively inexpensive and very effective at drying.

However, they also have a number of disadvantages, including a high degree of heating of the skin surface. To avoid this, you should buy a model with a built-in fan, which will remove unwanted sensations.

Disposal of fluorescent lamps also requires special attention If during operation the design of the heating element is accidentally damaged, it is necessary to urgently remove all parts of the device into a sealed container to prevent inhalation of mercury vapor.

When choosing fluorescent lamps, you should specify the type of device. If the device is equipped with induction control, it is not afraid of power surges, but for electronic devices it is advisable to use an additional voltage surge stabilizer. And you can find out about hard nail polish.

Gas-light

They appeared relatively recently and use modern sources - CCFL lamps.

Such technologies can reduce harmful effects on the eyes and prevent overheating of the gel.

The service life of gas light lamps is much higher, as is the cost of the devices.

LED lamps for drying nails

LED lamps significantly reduce drying time, and they are more economical and durable than fluorescent lamps. Among the main obstacles to widespread adoption are the significant cost and lack of polymerization effect for solid acrylic gels.
Unusual types of varnish attract all fashionistas, and one of these favorites is.

Combined manicure devices

Such hybrids are usually represented by models with two types of lamps: CCFL and LED. Such a duet will combine the advantages of these two technologies and eliminate possible disadvantages.

The use of hybrid models will allow you to dry absolutely all coatings, as well as minimize the harmful temperature effects on the skin of your hands and eyes.

Watch the video review: UV and LED lamp, 2 in 1

Lamp power Watt

Depending on the number of fluorescent light bulbs used, there are models with power from 9 to 54 watts. The number of lamps inside the device is usually from one to six, hence the gradation. Such a classification will allow you to select a device with the specified parameters and dry the coating in the shortest possible time.

Lamps for home use are relatively weak and usually have a power from 9 to 36 W. Professional models are more bulky from 36 to 54 W power. The most popular are the 36 Watt models, which, despite their relatively small dimensions, are quite powerful and significantly reduce the duration of use. Lamps with a power of 9 and 18 watts are gradually becoming obsolete and going out of production. And you can find out about “Loceryl” nail polish at.

Is UV lamp harmful?

Most frequently asked question, which is asked by buyers of nail dryers, is a possible negative effect on the body.

Only one harm is known for certain: ultraviolet radiation negatively reflects on the retina of the eye, so most lamp models are created with just such a housing to minimize the harmful glow.

The remaining arguments against the use of this drying method have no scientific basis and are more rumors than confirmed facts. Ultraviolet radiation is also used in other areas of human activity, for example, in medicine. The use of such equipment requires a responsible approach and compliance with basic safety measures, which we have given below.

Safety rules when working with a lamp:
The appliance is only used for drying or long nails. Other use or drying of other chemicals not specified in the manufacturer's instructions is not permitted.
Do not use a faulty device, including if there is external damage, cracks in the housing or faulty electrical cords.
If the device is used by more than one person, and even more so if the lamp is intended for mass use, disinfection of the device is necessary special solution after each use.
Faulty or burnt out elements should be replaced promptly to maintain drying efficiency. It is recommended to change the lamps after the warranty period has expired. A decrease in luminous flux power will adversely affect the quality of the coating.

How to use a nail dryer correctly - instructions for use

Depending on the type of heating element used and the type of varnish or gel, there may be a different time range for the coating to harden. Overall use ultraviolet lamp is not particularly difficult.

Before first use, it is best to carefully study the manufacturer's instructions to avoid undesirable results.

If the recommendations do not indicate the possibility of drying gel or regular varnish, using a lamp will not give the desired effect. It is necessary to strictly adhere to the required time; it is good if the device is equipped with a timer and a sound signal. If these functions are not provided, it is best to place a clock above the workplace and check the drying time according to it.

Estimated cost for lamps for gel polish and shellac

The price will primarily depend on the manufacturer and the chosen model and will differ in different places of sale. It is best to purchase such products in specialized stores of the “everything for manicure” type. If there is no such thing in your city, you can use the services of Internet companies with a proven reputation. This is the only way to secure your purchases and guarantee that you receive products of appropriate quality.

When choosing a home UV lamp, you should not focus on power, because a limited number of people will use the dryer. If for professional master While endurance and the number of possible uses in a short period of time will be important for a manicure, it is quite possible to purchase a compact and relatively weak model for your home. The drying time will increase slightly, but the cost will differ in a pleasant direction.

The approximate prices for lamps will also depend on the heating element used, so before going to the store, it is better to decide on this issue in advance. Relatively “old” models of fluorescent lamps will be sold much cheaper than innovative LED models, but does it make sense to buy the latest new products for the home? When purchasing, you should also clarify the possibility of replacing a burnt-out element yourself. The design of the lamp will also affect the price, so you should not blindly give preference to a beautiful appearance with the same functionality of the device. To remove rough skin on the legs, hardware peeling is often used. You can find out about Aquapeeling foot cream.

The estimated cost of various types of device can be seen in the following table:

No.: Element type: Power, W: Features: Cost, $:
1. UV lamp. 9 Timer. From 12.7.
2. 18 From 20.6.
3. 24 From 31.
4. 36 Timer. From 42.
5. 54 For two hands. From 65.
6. LED – lamp. 3 Flashlight. From 6.
7. 12 From 86.5.
8. 24 From 88.
9. 36 From 92.
10. Hybrid. 36 From 42.

A UV lamp is used to dry gel polish coating or when creating artificial nails. Each layer of coating must be dried, and the quality of the manicure performed will depend on the correctness of the chosen device.

General characteristics of UV nail lamp

Using special devices, it becomes possible to dry the coating on your nails faster and more efficiently. For some topical coatings, the use of a UV lamp is mandatory. In general, the use of the described devices has become a necessity for creating a flawless manicure with your own hands at home or in the salon.

For many consumers, these lamps have proven to be a good source of additional income, for example, by ordering custom manicure services at home.

The category of the device differs according to the types of light sources used. Ultraviolet, LED, gas-light and combined devices for drying nail areas are considered quite popular. The structure itself, in turn, is slightly different. And besides this, the devices also differ in some other characteristics.

Such lamps can be used both in a professional salon and at home. They are relatively affordable and quite productive when drying polymer coatings.

And at the same time, they also have several disadvantages, for example, high level heating the epidermis. To avoid this situation, you should purchase a product with a built-in fan that can remove unpleasant sensations.

When choosing a fluorescent lamp, it is necessary to clarify the type of device. If the device is equipped with an induction control method, then it is not afraid of a power supply drop. The same cannot be said about electronic designs. For them, the best option would be to use an additional voltage surge stabilizer.

Power

Depending on the number of fluorescent light bulbs used, you can distinguish between lamps with power from 9 Watt to 54 Watt. The device often contains from one to six lamps, hence the gradation. Based on such a specification, you can select a device with the specified characteristics and dry the coating with the least amount of time.

Devices used at home are quite weak, their power often ranges from 9 to 36 W. Devices used for professional purposes are quite impressive - from 36 to 54 Watts of power.

36 Watt devices are most in demand. They are small in size, but strong enough and dry the coating faster. Devices with a power of 9-18 watts are losing their popularity and are gradually being phased out.

Harmful or not

What effect does a UV lamp have on the body? This is a question that consumers often ask when choosing a device. It is well known that ultraviolet radiation is harmful to the retina of the eye. And, based on this, a large number of devices are created with a special housing that can minimize the harmful glow.

Other arguments against the use of this drying method are unsubstantiated and mostly turn out to be just rumors without supporting facts.

UV radiation is also used in other areas, for example, in medicine. The use of such devices requires a responsible approach and compliance with simple safety measures:

  • The device should only be used to dry the corresponding coating on the nails. The instructions for use will help you understand the correct use of the device and will tell you what chemicals can be dried in it.
  • It is forbidden to use a damaged device, this also applies to the presence of external damage, for example, cracks in the housing, as well as faulty electrical wiring.
  • In the case when the device is used for more than one person, it is imperative to disinfect the device with a liquid intended for this purpose after each use.
  • Non-functioning or burnt out parts must be replaced promptly. It is also advisable to replace lamps at the end of their service life, in accordance with the warranty. Reduced luminous flux power will have a bad effect on the effectiveness of the coating.


How to use a UV nail lamp

Based on the type of heating device used and the type of coating, be it varnish or gel, the time interval for the coating to harden will vary. In general terms, using a UV lamp will not be difficult.

Before starting use, it is advisable to study the instructions supplied with the device to avoid unwanted results. In the case when the instructions do not contain information about whether it is possible to dry gel polish in it or only regular varnish, using the device will not bring the expected effect.

The required time interval must be strictly observed. An excellent option would be a device equipped with a timer or sound signal. In the same case, when such functions are not provided, you can place a clock near your workplace and navigate by it.

In the event that the heating element device is inadvertently damaged during use, it is necessary to urgently remove all components of the device into a sealed container to prevent inhalation of mercury vapor.

Practical and durable gel polish, always up-to-date biogel and fashionable colored gels cannot be fixed on nails without a special lamp. These small, cute devices now “live” not only in beauty salons, but also in the homes of many craftsmen who want to make beautiful manicure at no extra cost. Let's talk about which lamp for drying nails is better to buy.

Types of lamps for manicure

  • classic UV lamps. Many people think that this type of drying is becoming obsolete. Indeed, they are bulky, take longer to dry the varnish than other, more modern devices, and the light bulbs need to be changed on average once every six months. However, they also have advantages: such dryers are “omnivorous” (they polymerize extension gels, gel polishes, acrylics), are affordable and easy to care for. They are still good for beginners and home manicurists.
  • LED dryers operate using LEDs. Such lamps ensure uniform polymerization. In addition, the LEDs have a service life of 50,000 hours and are designed to last at least 5 years. However, the emission spectrum of such lamps does not allow drying all types of materials. They are ideal for those artists who work only with gel polish and biogel.
  • LED+UV combine the advantages of the first two devices. This solution ensures fast and high-quality polymerization of any coatings for shellac and nail extensions. But you need to remember that the UV elements in hybrid devices also need to be replaced frequently, otherwise the drying efficiency may decrease.
  • CCFL+LED. In them, the LED elements are supplemented with a CCFL spiral tube that emits ultraviolet light. It is filled with gas, so it does not heat up, consumes very little electricity and practically does not wear out over time. Such devices are the most advanced, providing quick and effective drying of nails without requiring replacement of consumables. But they are also the most expensive.

The best manufacturers of nail drying lamps

With the development of the industry nail service The range of drying lamps is becoming wider, and the devices themselves are becoming more and more productive. At the same time, today you no longer need to pay a lot of money for a good device, even if we are talking about professional drying for a salon.

Let's divide all manufacturers of manicure lamps into three groups:

  • high-class professionals focused on high-status beauty salons. Basically, these are “Americans”: OPI, Gelish, CND, Harmony etc. Their lamps for drying nails are expensive and prestigious. However, some of them only work well with their own brand of materials. And in general, they cannot compete with functional, efficient, “omnivorous” and inexpensive devices made in Russia and China.
  • “Medium” lamps whose lamps are relatively inexpensive and are suitable for both home and salon use. Basically, these are domestic or Russian-Chinese brands: JessNail, RuNail, Planet Nails, Polaris, Irisk. This also includes the British brand. Solomeya. Their advantages are good quality, nice design and the possibility of warranty service. Such lamps for drying nails are most often chosen by novice nail technicians and small salons.
  • There are many Chinese manufacturers whose products can be purchased on Aliexpress and similar sites. They handle the drying function of gel polishes well, but they are very cheap. However, among Chinese lamps there are leading brands that are breaking all records in popularity: SUN/Sunuv and Diamond. They are reliable, efficient and affordable, have wide functionality, and can be purchased both for home use and for nail salons. They can be bought not only in China, but also in Russia, with warranty service.