10 Editor-Recommended UV Nail Lamps for At-Home Gel Manis
Spoiler: Once you have one of these, you're going to break up with your nail tech.
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I never feel complete without fresh nails. That said, getting regular manicures may be great for my nail game, but it's absolutely tragic for my wallet. Doing my gel nails at home, though? A game changer. The only thing I need for a salon-worthy mani is a steady hand, my trusty nail drill, fave gel polish, and the most important tool of all: the right UV nail lamp.
Before you start building your at-home nail salon, it's important to understand what a UV nail lamp actually does, and why the heck you even need one. UV nail lamps use either LED or UV lights to cure (i.e. harden and solidify) gel nail polish, ensuring that your polish dries strong and chip-resistant. In other words, it's an essential tool for any nail DIYer, which is why you'll want to check out these user and Cosmo-editor-recommended UV nail lamps before your next nail refresh:
Our top picks for best UV nail lamps of 2025:
Sounds simple, but when you're trying to perfect the aura nails trend or get chrome nails without the salon visit, you need the best equipment possible. So, I polled my fellow Cosmopolitan editors, did some research, and read through countless online reviews to find the best UV nail lamps for at-home gel manicures just for you. (You're welcome!)
Pros
- Timer mode will automatically shut off at the end of your pre-set time
- Has thousands of positive reviews on Amazon
Cons
- Some testers note that due to the shape of this, thumbs need to be cured separately
Wanna feel like a pro nail artist from the comfort of your couch? Cosmopolitan's video editor Sarah Ng (who has some of the best nails I've ever seen) swears by this UV and LED lamp to do her own acrylic sets. "It's lightweight and super easy to use whenever and wherever you need it," she says. She loves that the lamp has a motion sensor and four timer settings (10, 30, 60, and 99 seconds) that automatically shut off. "It makes for seamless curing without worrying about touching any of your tools," she says.
- Cures: UV & LED polish
- Timer settings: 10, 30, 60, 99 seconds
- Wattage: 48W
- Power: Cord
One shopper says: "For the cost of one manicure, my nails look professionally done without all the hassle or cost of going to the salon every 2 weeks. I can even buy a new nail polish color every other week and still spend less than I was spending at the salon. Time and money saver!”
Pros
- Compact design and 60-min battery life makes it easy to use on the go
- Great for curing every angle and side of your nails
Cons
- It only cures one nail at a time, so it takes time (but it's perf for 3D gel and charms)
This individual UV nail lamp is a fave of Cosmo Beauty Editor Beth Gillette. "For gel extensions, this is the best ever ever ever," she attests. What's unique about this UV lamp is that you can use it as pictured, like a flashlight, but it also has a mechanism that folds out so the lamp can stand on its own. That versatility ensures you get an even cure. Plus, have you ever seen a prettier curing light? We think not.
- Cures: UV polish
- Timer settings: N/A
- Wattage: 3W
- Power: USB, rechargeable
One Cosmo editor says: "When I'm doing gel-X extensions, it's way easier to just stick one nail at a time under this light than a whole-hand one. It bends and extends so I can really make sure to cure every single crevice for the longest-lasting gel mani. Or! I also use it when I wanna add charms or designs in gel—again, it's just way quicker than a big lamp."—BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITOR
Pros
- The auto sensors really make using this light a breeeeeeze
- Least expensive nail lamp we tested and loved
Cons
- Some reviewers said they needed 3+ minutes for each layer to dry completely
You won't need to worry about the fuss of extra buttons and settings with this nail lamp. Equipped with an auto sensor and soft lights to protect the skin, this easy-to-use DIY nail lamp will make you feel like a professional (even if you're absolutely not). The hands-free experience really simplifies your entire at-home mani process. But! Even better: It's so affordable. Like, the least expensive UV nail lamp we've tested.
- Cures: UV & LED polish
- Wattage: 40W
- Timer settings: 30, 60, 99 seconds
- Power: Cord
One shopper says: “This UV light looks and works exactly like the ones in the nail salon. It’s lightweight, but large enough to fit your hand in comfortably without fear that you’ll ruin your polish by touching the top or sides. And I’m saving so much money doing my nails at home!”
Pros
- Compact size still fits an entire hand or foot
- Long cord is easy to set up anywhere
- Most often used in salons by professionals
Cons
- Some reviewers find the lamp gets too hot
Yes, this nail lamp is a splurge. But sometimes, it's worth the investment if you want a good-quality product that doesn't break down after a few months. You've probably even seen this exact model at your local nail salon. This one by Gelish uses 18 LED bulbs and a motion-activated sensor, so you can easily cure five nails at once. But the best part is that it comes with a protective eyeshield, so the light won't damage your eyes.
- Cures: LED polish
- Wattage: 36W
- Timer settings: 5, 20, 30 seconds
- Power: Cord
One shopper says: "This is so worth the buy! I have literally saved myself hundreds of dollars by doing my mani at home. It may seem pricey initially, but the other lamps don't pack the punch of this one and will leave you frustrated with a crappy job!"
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to set up
- Lack of bottom makes it easy to use for both manicures and pedicures
Cons
- Many reviewers note they had to let polish cure for at least 2 minutes
Nervous about jumping into the gel polish game? This lamp is the perfect starting point. Not only does it feature powerful LED lights, but it also has two timer settings—30 seconds and 60 seconds—and a sensor that will automatically turn the machine off when it is not in use. This reduces the risk of over-exposure and means you can use this baby pretty much hands-free, which allows you to focus on creating sick nail designs.
- Cures: UV & LED polish
- Wattage: 36W
- Timer settings: 60, 99 seconds
- Power: Cord
One shopper says: "I truly enjoy the simplicity of this light. I'm a first-time learner and I can get overwhelmed easily. I like that it's open, so I'm not going to accidentally dent my nails moving in or out (trust me, I've done that many times at the salon)."
Pros
- Makes it easy to fix chipped nails or nail tips
- Many reviewers say it cures nails FAST
Cons
- Stand not included
Don't have enough room on your vanity for a bulky nail lamp, or worried about fixing up your gel manicure on the go? Get yourself a handheld UV LED nail lamp like this one. This pen-like light has a 40-minute battery life, so it will work for quick fixes and even full manicures (though you might not want to depend on it to last through curing 10 fingers and 10 toes).
- Cures: UV & LED polish
- Wattage: 3W
- Timer settings: 20, 60 seconds
- Power: USB, rechargeable
One shopper says: "Sent this to my daughter who was traveling overseas. I was skeptical of whether it would work well or not because of its size. She loved it! The compact size made it so easy for her to travel with and she said it worked perfectly."
Pros
- Includes everything you need to do nail extensions at home
- Lamp doesn't get too hot, per reviews
Cons
- Gel polish is sold separately
I could write a love letter about my experience with Aprés Nail. Basically, this brand was the one that made me take the leap and convert to being an at-home gel girlie. The kits come with everything you need to do your own Gel-X—i.e., a "soft extension" that is less damaging to the nail compared to traditional gel polish. It includes Gel-X tips (choose btwn almond, coffin, round, square, or stiletto in various sizes), a top coat, pH bonder, primer, extend gel, nail file, and the star of the kit, the brand's Beta LED Nail Lamp—which has three timer settings and a USB port so you can charge your phone while you cure. It legit feels like you're at a spa, not your cluttered kitchen counter.
- Cures: Gel X, UV & LED polish
- Wattage: 36W
- Timer settings: 10, 30, 60 seconds
- Power: Cord
One shopper says: "I've only used [the Beta] three times, but it has been great! Love that the bottom tray comes off so I can do pedicures without a problem. I do wish it had a longer cable, but totally not necessary since it still fits in my work area. Absolutely love the look and it fits the aesthetics of the rest of my tools."
Pros
- Automatically turns off when not in use
- Comes with 16 nail files and buffers
Cons
- A few reviewers claim the lamp was too strong and hot
If you're like me, then you don't love the idea of spending hours doing your nails. You have a need for speed, and the best way to pick up the pace of an at-home gel manicure is to get a UV LED nail lamp that fits both hands or feet at once. Not only does this lamp have enough room to cure 10 nails in one go, it's got four timer settings, a sensor to power on and off, 57 LED bulbs, and a long cord so you can set it up anywhere.
- Cures: UV & LED polish
- Wattage: 180W
- Timer settings: 10, 30, 60 seconds
- Power: Cord
One shopper says: "This is the first light I have owned that actually cures the gel fully in less than 2 minutes. The gel stays on until I decide to take it off. I am so very pleased with it. Plus, it's big enough for both hands or both feet at the same time."
Pros
- Engineered to cure your OPI ProHealth polishes—but will work with any nail polish
Cons
- Some reviewers say the lamp wouldn’t cure thumbs properly
This OPI gel nail lamp will cost you a pretty penny, but think about all the money you will save from those trips to the salon. In fact, many professional nail salons use this very lamp. Seems like a winner, huh? With this you'll be one step closer to becoming the Picasso of the nail world.
- Cures: LED polish
- Wattage: Not specified
- Power: Cord
- Timer settings: 15, 30, 45, 60 seconds
One shopper says: "My clients love how roomy it is inside, the handle is GREAT for moving and handling purposes. It looks very professional and clean, and there is ample room for clients to rest their hands on top as I polish."
Pros
- Super easy to store and take with you on trips
Cons
- Only cures one nail at a time, so it will take longer
If you travel a lot and want to ensure that your mani stays in tip-top shape no matter where you are in the world, this compact mini gel lamp is just the thing for you. It's the perfect tool to keep on hand in those emergency nail-chipping scenarios. It's also fab for quick touch-ups on your toes if you do gel pedis.
- Cures: UV & LED polish
- Wattage: 12W
- Timer settings: 30, 60 seconds
- Power: USB plug-in
One shopper says: "This lamp is a must-have. Perfect to take with you and it is a powerful little thing—love that you can fold it and close it.”
Is LED better for you than UV?
No, LED lamps are not necessarily better for you than UV lamps, and both can damage skin. "UV manicure lamps emit UVA radiation, which is a known cancer-causing agent," says board-certified dermatologist, Karan Lal, MD adding that exposure to this radiation may lead to sun spots and damage to the skin.
However, LED lamps also expose you to UV light. It might feel less hot and look less bright than a UV lamp, but LEDs still emit levels of UVA radiation. “Nail lamps use LED bulbs because they are long-lasting and they do not emit heat—but they are still UV light,” cautions board-certified Dornechia Carter, MD. “These are not safer.”
Regardless of which type of lamp to decide to purchase, remember to always apply sunscreen prior to painting your nails. This will prevent damage and protect your skin from any harmful rays.
Which lamp cures gel polish faster?
LED nail lamps will cure gel polish much faster than UV nail lamps. On average, an LED lamp takes 30 to 60 seconds to cure your gel, whereas a UV lamp takes up to two to three minutes. My personal preference is an LED lamp due to it also having a longer lifespan than UV options. However, as noted above, both pose risks.
Is UV/LED harmful to the skin?
Yes, both UV-only lamps and UV/LED lamps can be harmful to the skin, especially if used frequently, as both emit UVA radiation. "We don’t have evidence to prove UVA lamps cause skin cancer, but based on our understanding of UVA radiation, the risk exists," Dr. Lal says. Dr. Carter broke down the risk in even more detail: Assuming each gel manicure takes about five separate layers of polish (including a base and top coat), and each layer takes about two minutes to cure (this is a general estimate), she says, “This is a 10-minute tan for the back of the hands.” That amount of time “increases your risk for the signs of aging, such as age spots, thinning, wrinkles, as well as skin cancer.”
Due to the increased risk of repeated exposure, Dr. Carter suggests reserving gel manis for special occasions and using long-lasting polishes. And if you use UV/LED nail lamps regularly, then she recommends wearing a hydrating sunscreen, like the EltaMD Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ or the LaRoche Posay Melt-in Sunscreen Milk (which needs to be applied 15 minutes prior to UV exposure), to protect your hands from sun damage and keep them nice and smooth. There are also special gloves for gel manicures with exposed fingertips that will protect the top of your hands, but Dr. Carter wants you to remember, “This does not protect the tips of the nails or nail beds from the potential adverse effects of UV exposure.”
How to choose the best UV nail lamp for you:
Gel nail polish differs from regular nail polish due to the fact that it is set or cured with ultraviolet light. This ultraviolet light can come from either a UV or LED source, and in the world of gel manicures, not all nail lamps are created equal.
What's the difference between UV and LED nail lamps?
The key difference between UV and LED nail lamps is the type of lightbulb used. LEDs are usually more energy efficient and emit weaker rays than UV light bulbs. Here’s what that means for your nails:
- UV nail lamps can cure all LED nail polishes, whereas LED nail lamps can only cure polishes that specifically work with the lamp. This information will be noted on the nail polish.
- A UV nail lamp takes a few minutes longer to cure the gel polish, whereas the LED nail lamp is much quicker.
- That said, there are gel nail lamps available with both LED and UV lights to ensure there will be no difficulties curing the polish.
If you still don’t know how to decide, start by picking out what brand of gel polish you want to use. Once you’ve hit purchase, take a peek at the label and see what type of light—UV or LED—is needed to cure the polish and go from there.
Meet the experts:
- Karan Lal, MD, is a double board-certified adult, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatologist at Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ.
- Dornechia George Carter, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas. As the founder of Affinity Dermatology, she specializes in preventative skincare and the treatment of common skin conditions, like sun damage, acne, and eczema.
Why trust 'Cosmopolitan'?
Mary Honkus is a contributing beauty editor at Cosmopolitan with seven years of experience writing about beauty trends and products. You'll never catch her without a flawless manicure, and she's spent years testing nail lamps that make perfecting your at-home manicure a breeze.
Siena Gagliano is an associate editor at Cosmopolitan who writes beauty, with over three years of experience writing in the makeup, skin, and hair spaces. She’s an expert at researching and writing nail stories, like the best press-on nails and the top nail stickers. She regularly tests and analyzes UV nail lamps on her own nails for efficacy, while working with the industry’s top professionals to assess new formulas and brands.
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