Today it is difficult to imagine a girl without a stylish and well-groomed manicure, because well-groomed hands are the calling card of every member of the fair sex. For long-term manicure, many people prefer to use gel-lacquer, which retains its original appearance on the nails for up to 4 weeks. However, to gel-lacquer instantly solidified, requires the use of a special UV lamp for drying nails. There is a difference of opinion as to whether these lamps can be harmful to health or not. Some claim that UV lamps can have negative health effects while others believe that they are safe. In order to clear this question once and for all, we recommend reading this article.

One of the main concerns is the potential effects of UV radiation on the skin of the hands and nails. UV lamps use ultraviolet rays to cure gel polish quickly. However, some studies suggest that prolonged exposure to UV radiation may increase the risk of various problems, including premature skin aging and DNA damage.

It's worth noting that modern UV lamps usually have inbuilt technologies aimed at reducing potential harm. This includes filters that minimise the amount of UV rays reaching the skin.

UV lamps are known to have a wavelength of 350-400 nanometres. Studies by scientists show that rays with a wavelength of less than 295 nanometres are potentially dangerous to human health. In this context, it should be noted that UV lamps used in manicures do not pose a health risk, as confirmed by oncologists. 
It should be emphasised that these conclusions apply to the single use of these devices. However, should we be concerned about possible UV-induced cancer if we regularly visit the nail salon every fortnight?

Clinical dermatology studies in the US demonstrate that regular use of a UV lamp for manicures every fortnight does not increase the risk of cancer or accelerate skin ageing. The level of UV radiation we receive from this procedure is equivalent to only 17 seconds of exposure to the sun. It is important to emphasise that the proportion of this radiation is extremely small. However, many have raised concerns about the objectivity of such studies, claiming that they are often conducted by nail care product companies. This raises questions about the independence and validity of the findings.

Some experts highlight the potential risk of nail melanoma due to the use of UV lamps. Experience in the medical field, confirms that it is the feet that are affected by most diseases. It is important to note that, pedicure procedures using gel varnish are less frequent than manicures. Based on clinical studies, several potential factors have been identified that can significantly increase the risk of melanoma. Among them should be highlighted mechanical damage to the nail, exposure to aggressive chemicals, heredity, as well as increased risks of cancer.

To avoid potential health hazards, it is important to follow certain precautions when using a UV lamp. Here are some tips on how to use it safely:

1. Use quality UV lamps: Choose lamps from reputable manufacturers.

Manicure lamps from Global Fashion are quality and professional products


2 Use protection: 20 minutes before your manicure, apply SPF products to your hands and nails to reduce UV exposure.

3. Follow time recommendations: Do not exceed the recommended drying time indicated on the product.

4. Take breaks: Take breaks between treatments to allow your skin to rest.

5. Use specialised manicure gloves that only expose the nail and a small surrounding area.


All in all, if you follow the simple guidelines provided in the instructions, using UV and LED lights for manicure even at home becomes completely safe.

Read also: Its's to start wearing spf to your gel manicures