MENU
SEARCHLED (light-emitting diode) technology is one of the hottest trends in nails right now. In a mad dash to keep up, manufacturers are coming up with new LED lamps designed to cure gels faster and smarter than older-gen UV models. NAILS illuminates the basics of an LED lamp’s anatomy and offers a buyer’s guide to the latest generation of these amped-up lamps.
Ten seconds is all you need to cure base and top coat in Geluv’s LED lamp. Thirty and 60 second settings are also on the 30-watt lamp. All five fingers fit in the lamp and the bottom is removable for feet. Equipped with a one-year warranty, this lamp is lightweight and comfortable enough to be sanitized and moved easily.
In the beginning there was the UV-CFL lamp. These lamps emit a broad range of UV light – with only a portion of it actually curing the gel – requiring longer cure time. LED lamps emit the right amount of the specific UV-A wavelength needed to cure LED-curable gels, so they cure much faster. Since faster curing equals more time to take another client (and thus make more money), LED lamps are appealing to busy techs.
For new LED lamp owners it’s important to know how to maintain a lamp to get maximum use out of it. Because of a lamp’s build, it should be easy to clean. “Proper storage is key to maintaining a good gel lamp. Placing it in a safe and secure space while not in use is ideal to keep it in good condition,” says Orly spa manager Kelly Bannon. “To ensure a clean appearance, you want to make sure that the lamp is being thoroughly cleansed of any residue between clients.” While the lamp is in use, pay attention to the cords (although several models are now cordless) and placement of the lamp so that no tugging or pulling occurs. While the exterior of a lamp can vary a bit, many have similar settings so that nail techs investing in a new LED lamp can be up to speed in no time. So long as a client’s hands and feet are placed correctly in the lamp, nails should have contact with lights to cure properly.
Marine-exclusive antioxidants act as a natural biological shield for the feet to help protect skin, smooth cracks, hydrate roughness, calm inflammation and disrupt bacterial and fungal activity, leaving feet feeling softer, smoother, more hydrated and healthier.
The MelodySusie P-PLUS30GT UV/LED Rechargeable Nail Lamp represents an upgrade in curing technology, designed to address several challenges through improved light reflection, intelligent heat management, and cordless operation.
Meet Luminary Nail Systems, the innovative professional nail brand founded by a husband-and-wife team that is dedicated to strength and longevity.
Elevate your tip service with the OPI GELevate™ Extension System, featuring tailor-made Soft Gel Tips, GELevate 4-in-1 Builder with Intelli-Builder Technology and the Lightening Flash Cure Gel Lamp. This new system from OPI allows for flawless tips in no time.
Nail technicians are embracing the Medical Pedicure as a service and placing it on their menus. But what is it? What training is required? Is it within our scope of practice as licensed nail technicians?
MelodySusie introduces the Fleurwee Gel Nail Polish series—a revolutionary gel polish that is HEMA/HPMA- and TPO-free, plant-based gel polish for a high-quality nail care experience.
Americanails' Original Base and Top Coat Gels are universal, reliable, affordable, and all you'll ever need to ensure a long-lasting gel manicure.
Get the look: Cynthia Erivo's 3D Blooming Mani at the 2024 Tony Awards featured 3D elements and crystals completed with OPI.
Check out these new launches from The GelBottle, including new BIAB shades and a line of body care products for a luxurious spa experience.
Kim Kardashian's manicure created for GQ’s annual 'Man Of The Year' event are the perfect understated, yet edgy look for fall or even the holiday party season.
Are your salon procedures safe for the health-sensitive community? Beauty industry expert Joy Johnson shares her tips for a safe salon and spa.
When the weight of the body lands on a swollen nerve, it can be debilitating. Learn the symptoms and alert clients to this common problem that develops in the nerves of the foot.
With the PC1 Nail Drill Pen, achieving healthy nails and a flawless manicure has never been easier. This user-friendly nail drill pen covers all your nail care needs.
Meet the new MelodySusie portable nail drill that offers customizable speed options.
Attending a presentation by Doug Schoon is an opportunity not to be missed for anyone in the nail care industry. His extensive expertise, commitment to accurate information, and engaging presentation style make for an enlightening experience.
Ski jump nails can be corrected with liquid-and-powder acrylic and an accurately sized tip.
What's really so smart about a smart e-file? A lot! Hear from celebrated nail artist Sarah Grimes about why she loves Gelish's smart new Go File IQ.
Sponsored by Gelish
