6 reasons why gel polish doesn't dry in the lamp - and what to do about it

Gel varnish is one of the most popular manicure coatings due to its durability and glossy shine. However, sometimes it refuses to polymerise even under a powerful lamp. Why does this happen? Below we analyse 6 main reasons why gel-lacquer does not dry, and tell you how to fix it.
1. Drying time under the lamp was insufficient
This is the most common mistake that causes gel polish not drying in the lamp. More often than not, the problem lies in the insufficient power of the lamp, which does not correspond to the recommendations of the gel polish manufacturer. For example, if the packaging indicates that it requires a lamp with a power of 40 watts, and you use a lamp at 20 watts, the coating simply does not have time to dry completely. In such cases, you should increase the drying time. It's better to over-dry your gel polish a bit than to leave it undried, so you'll avoid chipping and peeling.
2.The lamp is out of order
LED lamps last longer than UV lamps, but both can fail over time. Start simply by gently wiping the lamp clean of dust, sometimes this is what solves the problem. If that doesn't help, call a professional to diagnose the problem or consider buying a new lamp.
3. Inappropriate lamp type
Most modern gel polishes cure in both LED and UV lamps. However, there are some products that only cure under UV lamps. It is therefore important to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before use to ensure that your lamp is suitable for drying your chosen gel polish.
4. Fingers are in the wrong position
This often happens if you dry all your fingers at the same time - the thumb may turn slightly to the side and the UV light will not reach the nail exactly. Therefore, it is better to dry each nail separately.
5. The gel varnish is applied in an excessively thick layer
In order for the UV light to dry the gel varnish properly, apply it in a thin layer. If the coating is too thick, the light will not penetrate deeply and the bottom layer will remain semi-liquid.
6. Poor quality gel varnish
Cheap gel lacquers and fakes often dry poorly - perhaps you've come across just such a product. In such cases, it's better to buy gel varnish only from trusted and established brands. Be sure to read reviews - it really helps to make the right choice.
Global Fashion shop offers a wide range of quality gel varnishes for every taste. Go to the catalogue to choose and buy the perfect product for your manicure!
Published: 02.06.2025 12:47
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