The best lamps for drying shellac in 2022

Artificial manicure has been in demand among the female half for a long time. This is not surprising, shellac-coated nails are beautiful, durable and do not require extra time, except for visiting the master. On average, this procedure takes no more than an hour, and the effect obtained lasts up to a month.

The whole problem lies in the desire of some fashionistas to change the general appearance of nails more often, but this requires an appointment with the master, the allocation of time for the procedure and, of course, money. Therefore, many of the fair sex are thinking about applying shellac or gel polish on their own. And in this case, you have to think about which lamp to choose for drying shellac.

Shellac manicure tools

Applying shellac is not an easy procedure. For its high-quality implementation, you will need a decent list of tools and special substances. Substances include:

• degreaser;
• Base for applying shellac;
• Selected shellac color;
• Means for covering the finished result.

The tools include:

• Standard manicure set;
• Various set of nail files;
• Collection of brushes;
• Drying lamp.

And if the tools can be replaced with improvised means, and the substances for performing a manicure can be bought in a set, then it is impossible to complete the procedure without a lamp for drying shellac. Without it, it simply will not dry out, and will be a thickened jelly on the nails.

Shellac manicure procedure

If the desire to do an artificial manicure is great and all the necessary conditions are available, including time, then you should adhere to the following conditions for a high-quality result:

1. Shaping nails. At this stage, the nails are simply put in order with a nail file. The cuticle is also processed.
2. Degreasing. Applying a degreaser will allow the shellac to lie flat and stay on for a long time.
3. Base application. The base layer is best applied with a special brush in an extremely thin layer. First, it is better to process all fingers except the thumb, so it is more convenient to dry this layer. Dry the base under a special lamp for 1 minute.
4. Shellac application. After the dried base, shellac is applied directly. Drying of nails in a lamp is carried out according to the time indicated on the package in layers.
5. Finish coating. The finish coat makes the nails shiny, but also requires curing under a lamp.
6. Degreasing. After carrying out all the manipulations, the resulting manicure must be degreased again. This will remove stickiness and add extra shine to the nail plate.
7. At the end of the procedure, it is recommended to treat the cuticle with oil or a special cream.

As can be seen from the description of the procedure, it is impossible to do without a special lamp during the manicure procedure with shellac coating. Next, we will consider what lamps are and how to choose the right device for personal needs.

Types of lamps for manicure with shellac

There are many types of lamps. They differ in color, shape, power, design and general technical characteristics. But the main types can be divided into three categories:

• UV lamps;
• LED lamp;
• Gas lamps;
• Combination lamps.

Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so the choice of a lamp should be made taking into account all the desires of the hostess.

UV lamps

The ultraviolet lamp became the founder of artificial manicure. Therefore, until now it can be seen in most of the masters providing cosmetic services. Over time, many options for such lamps appeared in terms of color, body type, color and design. However, all these characteristics, in fact, are not very important, the power of the device matters much more, because the rate of shellac polymerization depends on it.

The lamps of the device are available with a power of 9 to 54 watts. One lamp is equal to 9 W and how many light bulbs are included in the device so much power it produces. The optimal solution is considered to be a device with 4 light bulbs, in which the total power is 36W. Drying under such a lamp takes 2 minutes.

A special utility in lamps of this kind is the timer. Cheap models have a timer already set for 1 - 2 minutes, more expensive ones have a special button for turning on the countdown or a second timer.

The size of the lamp is also important. In a salon, it is advisable to purchase a lamp for drying two hands at the same time, but for home use, a device for one hand is quite suitable. This will save time, space and energy.

A distinctive feature of the imminent breakdown of a light bulb is their alternate switching on, flashing or the complete absence of light on one of the lamps of the device. In this case, there may be an increase in drying time due to power loss. Or even rapid cracking of the surface of the nail or its delamination.But this is a completely solvable problem, the lamps in such devices are easily replaceable and commercially available.

There are such lamps and disadvantages to them include:

1. Ultraviolet rays are harmful to the eyes;
2. This radiation can dry out the skin;
3. The bulbs in the appliance may burn out and need to be replaced.

UV lamp test overview

LED lamp

LED devices, or as they are also called LED lamps, have appeared relatively recently. The advantage of such lamps is that under their influence the shellac dries much faster. The 6 W lamp is designed for one drying step of 10 to 30 seconds. This version of the device is convenient for craftsmen traveling to the address of the client, it is light, miniature and easy to use. Another advantage of the device on LEDs is the continuation of work even when one or two diodes burn out. Unfortunately, they are not replaceable.

When choosing a device, it is better if the diodes are located over the entire surface of the device, and not just on top. This will give the advantage of completely and evenly drying the shellac from all sides, and not just from the top. In LED models, the timer can be touch-controlled and turn on when the hand is in the lamp. The main models of LED lamps are designed for drying one hand according to the 4 +1 scheme. But in the line of various manufacturers you can find models for two hands, but they differ in size and cost.

Important! LED beams are not harmful to health, but they may not be able to cope with some gel polishes, so if the choice fell on a lamp of this kind, then you should carefully read the instructions for the coating.

Overview of LED lamps

gas lamps

Lamps for drying shellac, which are equipped with a cold cathode, are called gas lighting or CCFL.To date, this type of device has not yet entered into active use among the masters, due to the high cost. But those masters who are already working with such lamps declare the following advantages of the device:

1. Possibility of drying any type of coating;
2. Complete safety for skin and eyes;
3. Great durability and low wear resistance;
4. Little power consumption.

There is no unequivocal option for drying time, it is different in different models, but an average period can be distinguished, which ranges from half a minute to two. Gas lighting equipment still has a high cost, so it makes no sense to purchase such a device for individual use.

hybrid lamps

The device combines gas-light and LED-lamp technologies. This combination allows you to work with different types of gels, while fixing the coating occurs in a short period of time, about 20 seconds.

The advantages of such devices are versatility, long service life, energy efficiency and fast polymerizing effect.

Video review of a hybrid lamp

Rating of the best lamps for drying shellac

According to manicure specialists, the choice of a lamp should depend not only on its functions and capabilities, but also on the price. It is unprofitable to purchase a newfangled device for independent use. Such devices can be considered by large salons to assert the image of the establishment. Therefore, the review is based on average performance and functionality.

The best LED lamps for drying shellac

LED lamp Solomeya 54G Ultra

Cost: 7000 rubles.

Country of manufacture: UK. This is perhaps the only professional device in this rating.It allows you to place 5 fingers at once, while it can be used, among other things, for a pedicure. There is a built-in motion sensor, that is, after removing or placing hands, the lamp can turn itself off or on. The built-in timer is programmed for 5, 20 or 30 seconds, but you can also set your own time. 18 LEDs are responsible for drying, each with a power of 3 W. The resource of work is more than 50,000 hours.

• Great working resource;
• Versatility (manicure/pedicure);
• The ability to accommodate five fingers at once;
• The bottom is magnetic, removable;
• Automatic on/off sensor;
• Timer with flexible settings;
• Fast layer fixing time.

• Not identified.

LED planet nails Sensation, 14 W

The cost is from 2400 rubles.

This is a powerful dryer for LED type. For quick fixing, 35 LEDs are installed here, there is a mirror reflector. For greater convenience, a sliding panel is built in. There is a display, as well as four function buttons, in addition to the power lever. The case is plastic.

• Convenient sliding panel for the client;
• The buttons are located closer to the master, which is ergonomic;
• Stylish design;
• The built-in timer is designed to set the time from 5 to 900 seconds.

• No critical ones were found.

SunOne - Led nail lamp (48 W)

Price: from 2750 rubles

In general, the reviews of the masters about the lamps of the SunOne brand are positive. The company produces lamps of different power, equipment and design. And even despite the fact that the devices were ordered on Aliexpress, there were no significant shortcomings in them.

A decent size of the device 280 * 156 * 100mm allows you to dry your manicure without any problems according to the 4 + 1 scheme.There is a timer for 5,30,60 seconds, which allows you to adjust the drying time depending on the surface. The lower retractable bar will not allow your fingers to rest against the back of the device in order to avoid damaging the new manicure.

• Light weight - about 600 gr.
• Claimed lamp life is about 50,000 hours;
• Power 48 W.

• Masters practicing work at the client's home consider the white design of the device to be a disadvantage.

LED Dona Jerdona LD-100 100456

Price: 7100 rubles

LED lamp for professional and individual use, designed for the polymerization of all types of artificial surfaces. The sliding bottom can be used for a pedicure. Claimed operating time 50,000 hours.

• Ease and simplicity in operation;
• The reflectors are diamond cut;
• Great work time.

• Price.

The best UV lamps for drying shellac

UV planet nails AV-36W-1 Fantasy, 36 W

Average cost: 2120 rubles.

The top panel has a stylish "girly" design. Fixing the coating is provided by 4 lamps and the power of the device is 36 watts. There is a mirror reflector and a sliding panel. This device can be used for both manicure and pedicure. There is a timer where you can set the time to 60, 120 and 180 seconds. The case is plastic.

• Three color options for the top panel;
• Only two clear buttons (on and timer);
• Indicator of the selected time mode;
• The presence of a sliding panel;
• Versatility (used when covering nails on both hands and feet).

• There is no possibility of flexible time setting, only three built-in modes.

UV lamp 36W Tunnel "Econom" planet nails

The cost is from 1650 rubles.

The German manufacturer (Chinese assembly) offers this dryer in more than 15 color options. At the same time, a model in a monocolor will cost less, with the presence of an ornament it will be more expensive by a third.

The device is light, less than 1 kg, 4 lamps provide hardening of the coating, while the minimum drying time programmed in the device is 120 seconds, then flexible adjustment is possible. There is a separate toggle switch for turning on the timer and a separate one for flexible settings.

Like most similar devices, a retractable plate is provided here and there is a mirror reflector.

• The widest range of designs, drying can decorate any work area;
• The presence of a reflector and a sliding panel;
• Possibility of flexible temperature setting.

• The minimum procedure time is 2 minutes.

Planet Nails 36W Profi White

Price: from 2550 rubles

UV lamp for drying and building nails with artificial materials. 4 lamps of 9 W each give out a total amount of power of 36 W, which is suitable for drying almost all gel polishes and shellac.

• Retractable bottom and sufficient size allow you to perform both manicure and pedicure;
• Timer for 2 minutes;
• The operating time is calculated at 4000 hours.

• Work with ultraviolet radiation;
• Possibility of UV lamp failure.

TOUCH Beauty TB-1438

Price: from 1390 rubles

An ultraviolet dryer. You can dry both ordinary varnishes and shellac. Drying time 2 minutes. Ideal device for individual use.

• Automatic activation after raising a hand;
• Modern design;
• Compact size.

• The device operates on batteries that are not included.
• Not suitable for working with a large number of clients.

The best gas lamps for nails

Fancy CCFL planet nails

Price: 2750 rubles.

The device is made in white plastic, can be used for both manicure and pedicure. The curing process is provided by a single cold cathode lamp. There is a reflector.

There is a built-in timer for 1-1.5 and 2 minutes, it is possible to set the time in manual mode. Each preset time interval has its own button.

• Universal, you can dry the coating of fingernails and toenails;
• Lightness of the device - less than 700 gr.
• Possibility to set the time manually.

• No drawer panel
• No display.

Drive CCFL planet nails

Cost: 2750 rubles.

Drive CCFL can be used when working with gel or gel polish, shellac, biogel. The resource of work is 30,000 hours, i.e. 3-4 years the unit will serve properly. The built-in timer allows you to set the time to the nearest second. There is a display, a reflector and a retractable bottom.

• The built-in timer allows you to choose one of three preset time periods: 30, 60 or 120 seconds, or set your own time;
• Display and automatic shutdown as drying is completed;
• The presence of a convenient retractable bottom;
• Use for both manicure and pedicure.

• Not exposed.

The best hybrid lamps for drying shellac

UV-LED Irisk Professional Moon Plus, 36W (P455-04-01)

Cost: from 2100 rubles.

Irisk is a manufacturer from China, which is distinguished by the constant improvement of its products.

This lamp combines the effects of ultraviolet and LED radiation. The process takes from half a minute, but the thickness of the layer and the type of coating play an important role in the exact time. There is a timer with two time options, as well as the possibility of manual setting. Case material - white plastic.

• The presence of a touch switch;
• Stylish design;
• Built-in timer.

• Installation is possible only on a flat surface due to the lack of a lower part;
• No display.

Fiera 36W CCFL (UV/UV) + LED, gold

Price: from 1200 rubles

The hybrid lamp for drying shellac has a unique design and chic gold plating. The power of the device is 36 W and the lamp life is up to 30,000 hours.

• The model contains a fuse against voltage surges;
• High polymerization rate of any materials;
• Possibility of use, both in personal, and in professional business.

• Size 240*160*95mm is not enough for pedicure;
• The removable magnetic bottom can affect the watch if it is worn on the wrist.

From the review presented, it can be seen that the functions of UV lamps do not differ much from devices with LED equipment, there are also hybrid options. All of them have different prices. Therefore, when choosing a device, it is worth really evaluating all aspects of this issue.If you need to do a manicure individually, then it is quite possible to purchase a lamp with ultraviolet light, and if it is possible to use the device professionally, then it is better to give preference to lamps with diodes.

In order for the lamp to please with its work for a long time, it is better to buy them from trusted manufacturers and sellers. This will give a guarantee for the declared time of work and excellent quality of the goods.

Advantages of shellac nails

A manicure made by yourself guarantees protection against infections and poorly processed tools by the master. In addition, this is an opportunity to do a manicure without being tied to a master and in your free time. And the development of your own nail design and its implementation is a manifestation of creativity and imagination.

If you “fill your hand”, then the shellac nail extension procedure will not take much time. Of course, applying shellac will require more diligence than a regular manicure, but this procedure will allow you to have well-groomed hands for a period of 3 to 4 weeks, freely visit the pool and wash dishes.

In addition, nail extensions can bring a good income, provided that the procedure is followed correctly, high-quality equipment and close friends. However, reaching a professional level also implies the use of far from all types of devices, that is, compact models with an extended layer fixing period will have to be left in the past and a powerful professional lamp should be chosen. Fortunately, the market for lamps for drying shellac today represents a wide selection of units that differ in the principle of drying, power, dimensions and design. The choice is yours!