💡 UV Lamp Exposure Calculator
See how long your gel manicure spends under the lamp and roughly how much UV exposure that adds up to over a year — pick your lamp, enter your coats, and set how often you get gel done.
💅 Know Your Cure Time
What is a UV Lamp Exposure Calculator?
Every gel manicure means time under a UV or LED lamp to cure each coat. This calculator adds up that lamp time for a single set and projects a rough annual figure based on how often you get gel done.
Use it to compare a slower UV lamp against a faster LED, to gauge how art layers add up, and to make an informed choice about UV-protective gloves or sunscreen. The numbers are general estimates, not medical advice — see a dermatologist for any skin or nail health concerns.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long does gel polish take to cure?
It depends on your lamp. Traditional UV lamps typically cure each coat in about two minutes, while modern LED lamps cure in roughly 30 to 60 seconds per coat. Always follow your lamp and polish manufacturer's recommended time — under-curing leaves polish tacky and can irritate skin, while the right time gives a hard, glossy finish.
Is the UV light from a nail lamp safe?
Nail lamps emit UVA, and the cumulative exposure from frequent gel manicures is small but real. As a sensible precaution, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to the backs of your hands before curing, or wear fingerless UV-protective gloves. This calculator gives general estimates, not medical advice — talk to a dermatologist if you have skin-cancer risk factors or concerns.
How many coats should I count?
Count every coat that goes under the lamp: a base coat, each colour coat (usually one or two), and a top coat. A standard gel manicure is often four coats, but builder gel, ombre, or art layers add more. Enter your real number of coats so the total and annual exposure estimates reflect your routine.