When purchasing a gel polish, make sure that it specifies on the label that the polish does not require a UV light or LED lamp to cure. If the polish doesn’t specify that it’s a non-UV polish, it likely won’t cure without a light or lamp.

While quick-drying polish sprays are generally formulated for non-gel nail polishes, they might still help cure gel polish faster. Be aware, however, that it will still likely take several hours for the polish to harden. [4] X Research source

Cooking spray can help cure the top layer of your gel polish faster while moisturizing your cuticles as well. [6] X Research source Try not to touch anything while your nails are drying, as the cooking spray can leave your fingers feeling a bit sticky.

While your nails will likely feel completely hardened right when they come out of the ice water, they may not be completely cured for several hours. Therefore, it’s important that you’re careful with your nails for several hours after removing them from the water.

You can buy professional nail gloves made out of a special polymer that contains titanium dioxide, a sun-protecting ingredient found in many sunscreens. [10] X Research source You can also use regular fingerless gloves. While they might not protect as well as professional nail gloves, they will protect your skin to a degree. LED lamps are generally preferable to UV lights because they cure polish in 45 seconds, versus the 8 or 9 minutes it takes a UV light. However, because they do still emit UV rays, it’s important to wear gloves or sunscreen to protect your skin as much as possible.

Make sure that the polish is applied evenly and that there aren’t any drips or clumps.

Operating instructions will vary depending on the exact LED lamp you’re using, so make sure you follow the directions for your lamp.   If your lamp doesn’t have a timer, you can set a timer on your smartphone to help you keep track of the time.  

Be careful not to get any polish on your cuticles, as this can impede the curing process and cause your polish to peel.

If you get the color you want from the gel polish after 1 coat, you can skip this step.

As with UV-cured polish, gel polish cured with an LED lamp lasts up to 3 weeks. [19] X Research source