UV-LED Light-Cured Manicure: A New Trend in Long-Lasting, Bright and Healthy Manicure

Abstract:

With the popularization of the concept of healthy manicure, traditional solvent-based nail polishes are gradually being replaced by safer and longer-lasting manicure products.  Among them, UV-LED nail polishes (photocuring gels) have become the mainstream choice for modern manicure due to their advantages of low harm, high adhesion, and long-lasting effect.  This paper details the classification, core components and advantages of UV nail gels, helping readers understand this safe and efficient manicure technology.

As the core product for nail decoration, nail polishes are mainly divided into three categories: traditional solvent-based nail polishes, peelable water-based nail polishes, and UV nail gels.  With people's pursuit of both health and beauty, traditional nail polishes containing organic solvents are gradually declining, while safer and longer-lasting UV-LED nail polishes (commonly known as "photocuring gels") are becoming a new favorite in the market.

1.  Classification of UV Nail Gels

UV nail gels used in light-cured manicure can be classified by function as follows:

 ✿  Base Coat:

Enhances adhesion to the nail and prevents peeling;

 ✿  Color Gel:

Offers a wide range of color options and is applied over the base coat;

 ✿  Top Coat (Surface Gel): 

Protects the color gel, improves glossiness, and extends durability.

2.  Analysis of Core Components

 ✿  Base Resins:

Such as polyurethane acrylate (or combined with polyester acrylate), which ensure film-forming property and flexibility;

 ✿  Reactive Diluents:

Such as hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA), acryloyl morpholine (ACMO), isobornyl methacrylate (IBOMA), cyclotrimethylolpropane formal acrylate (CTFA), 4-hydroxybutyl acrylate (4-HBA), etc.;  they adjust viscosity and participate in the curing reaction;

 ✿  Photoinitiators:

TPO, 819, TMO, TPO-L, which trigger curing under UV-LED light irradiation;

 ✿  Additives:

Including leveling agents, wetting agents, defoamers, adhesion promoters, toughening agents, inhibitors (510), and thiols added to overcome oxygen inhibition and improve surface drying performance;

 ✿  Pigments:

Color pastes or pearlescent powders, which provide brilliant color effects.

3.  Advantages of UV-LED Technology

Compared with traditional UV lamps, UV-LED light sources only emit UVA 波段 (UVA range) and do not contain UVB or UVC, thus avoiding excessive ultraviolet damage and ozone generation.  In addition, UV-LED nail polishes have the following characteristics:

 ✿  Convenient Operation 

– Easy to apply with a brush and fast curing (usually 30-60 seconds);

 ✿  High Adhesion 

– Hard to peel off, maintaining effect for 2-3 weeks;

 ✿  Mirror-like Gloss

– Long-lasting brightness after curing, no frequent touch-ups needed.

Health and Aesthetics Coexisting

UV-LED manicure strikes a balance between safety and durability, making it the preferred choice for manicurists and consumers.  In the future, with the development of low-irritation formulas and environmentally friendly materials, light-cured manicure will become more popular, leading the new trend of healthy manicure.

If you have any product requirements or technical inquiries, please feel free to contact us at any time. We look forward to cooperating with you!