How are gel nails cured?

Gel nails are cured by using UV or LED light, which initiates a chemical reaction in the gel formula, hardening it and allowing it to adhere firmly to the natural nails. The use of light is essential because regular air drying would not provide the necessary heat or energy to prompt the curing process.

UV lights emit wavelengths that penetrate the gel, activating its photoinitiators which cause the gel to cure and form a durable finish. LED lights are a more modern approach that can cure gel nails more quickly than traditional UV lamps, but both methods rely on light to achieve the desired outcome.

Other methods, such as soaking in acetone, are used for the removal of gel nails and not for curing. Air-drying and heating are also not effective for this specific process, as they do not initiate the necessary chemical reaction to solidify the gel.