UV Nail Gel Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Product Type (Color Gel/ Gel Polish, Base Coat Gels, Top Coat Gels, and Others), By Application (Nail Salons, Beauty Professionals, and DIY Kits), By Category (Mass/Economic, Premium, and Luxury), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Direct Sales to Salons, Online Retail, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The global UV Nail Gel market size was valued at USD 1.54 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 1.63 billion in 2025 to USD 2.57 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.73% during the forecast period.

The UV nail gel market encompasses cosmetic formulations that cure under UV light or LED light to create durable, glossy, and chip-resistant manicures. Products include base gels for adhesion, builder gels for nail extensions and strengthening, color gels for decorative finishes, and top coats for sealing and protection. Their application spans both professional salons and the rapidly growing at-home user segment, driven by demand for long-lasting manicures, versatile nail art, and premium finishes compared to traditional nail polish. Beyond beauty, these gels are also valued for strengthening brittle nails and enabling intricate decorative effects, which broadens their appeal across consumer groups.

Furthermore, growth in this market is fueled by rising disposable incomes, increased consumer preference for professional-looking results at home, and continuous product innovation toward safer, low-odor, and TPO-free formulations. According to the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the broader U.S. cosmetics and personal-care sector contributes about USD 308.7 billion to the economy, reflecting the scale of the industry where nail gels represent a dynamic niche. 

Key players such as OPI, Sally Hansen, Creative Nail Design, Gelish, and Kiara Sky in the UV nail gel market are focusing on product innovation, expanding DIY and salon quality ranges, and leveraging brand strength with trend-driven colors and finishes. They also invest in regulatory compliance, safety testing, and marketing through digital/social platforms to strengthen consumer trust and capture evolving demand.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Shifting Consumer Preference for Long-Wear Nail Gels to Boost Market Growth

A major driver of the UV nail gel market growth is the shift in consumer preference from old-fashioned nail polishes to long-wear, salon-quality finishes. UV-curable gels offer durability of around two to three weeks without chipping, a clear advantage over conventional lacquers that typically last only a few days. This durability has accelerated adoption in professional salons and in the at-home segment, where DIY kits have become increasingly popular. 

• According to Volza, a global import-export trade data platform, India’s import data indicates a large jump in gel nail polish shipments. The county imported 119 shipments of gel nail polish between October 2023 and September 2024, up ~261% over the previous 12 months.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Health and Regulatory Concerns Around UV Exposure and Allergic Reactions to Restrict Market Expansion

A significant restraint on the UV nail gel market is the growing awareness of health risks associated with UV curing and chemical sensitizers. Clinical literature has documented cases of allergic contact dermatitis caused by acrylates in gel systems, while dermatology reviews highlight consumer and technician concerns over cumulative UV/LED lamp exposure. Systematic reviews of adverse events have reported numerous cases of allergic reactions associated with gel manicures.

• Regulatory scrutiny by the European Commission is also intensifying, where it has restricted the use of the photoinitiator TPO (a common curing agent in gels) under the EU Cosmetics Regulation, requiring reformulation of many products. These developments illustrate how safety concerns and compliance costs can hamper industry growth, as brands must balance innovation with stricter health and regulatory standards.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Innovation in Sustainable and Safer Gel Formulations to Create Lucrative Growth Opportunities

A strong growth opportunity for the UV nail gel market lies in the development of eco-friendly and safer formulations. Growing regulatory scrutiny and consumer health concerns are fast-tracking demand for gels that are hypoallergenic, low-odor, and free from restricted photoinitiators such as TPO. The European Commission’s ban on TPO in cosmetics highlights the urgency for reformulation and opens a space for brands that can innovate with alternative, compliant photoinitiators.

Simultaneously, academic reviews underscore active R&D into bio-based UV-curable resins and safer acrylate replacements, indicating scientific headway toward greener formulations. Major players that invest in these sustainable solutions can position themselves competitively, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers while meeting stricter global regulatory standards.

UV NAIL GEL MARKET TRENDS

Social Media & Influencer-Driven Nail Art to Impel Industry Growth 

Social media influencers on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are comprehensively shaping nail art as a form of visual self-expression, turning nails into miniature canvases. A study of influencer impact in the beauty and nail industry found that influencers introduce novel designs and techniques and drive adoption among their followers. People often replicate designs they see online, increasing consumer demand for UV nail gel polish shades, tools, and products that enable those styles.

• According to the Beauty Launchpad, a media brand focused on the beauty industry, cited that Long Nails” trend had over 11 million combined posts/views across TikTok and Instagram. In comparison, the French manicure trend had over 9 million combined posts/views in 2024.

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Such viral trends enable brands to rapidly introduce new styles (shapes, finishes, techniques) and trigger quick product cycles (new color launches, special effect gels). They also encourage at-home gel kit purchases so consumers can replicate influencer-approved designs.

Segmentation Analysis

By Product Type 

Aesthetic Appeal of Color Gel/Gel Polish Encouraged the Segment’s Growth

On the basis of product type, the market is classified into color gel/gel polish, base coat gels, gels, top coat gels, and others.

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The color gel/gel polish segment held the largest UV nail gel market share in 2024. These products directly meet consumer demand for vibrant, long-lasting manicures. Unlike base or top coats, they offer visible fashion appeal, driving repeat purchases with seasonal shades and trend-driven collections. Color gels are trend-driven; consumers buy multiple shades to match outfits or follow viral nail art trends, unlike base or top nail gel coats that last longer through multiple manicures. Moreover, consumers perceive direct beauty value in color gels, while base/top coats are viewed primarily as functional add-ons. This perception advantage underpins the higher market share of gel polishes within the market.

The base coat gels segment is projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.25% over the projected years.

By Application

Extensive Scale of Beauty Service Sector Boosted the Nail Salon Segment Growth

In terms of application, the market is categorized into nail salons, beauty professionals, and DIY kits. 

The nail salons segment captured the largest share of the market in 2024 and is anticipated to maintain its dominance in 2025 with a 56.19% share. Consumers associate gel applications with long-lasting, high-quality manicures that require professional curing and precision. Salons also act as early adopters of new formulations, finishes, and nail art trends, which then filter down to the DIY consumer segment. Moreover, the scale of the beauty services sector contributes significantly to the wider economy, highlighting how specialized nail salon services remain a backbone for product demand.

• Dermatology reviews note that most reported allergic reactions and UV exposure concerns originate from professional salon settings, reflecting their dominant role in product usage.

The DIY kits segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.45% over the forecast period.  

By Category

Easier Product Accessibility and Frequent Purchases Fostered Mass/Economic Segment Expansion

Based on category, the market is segmented into mass/economic, premium, and luxury.

The mass/economic segment held the dominant market position in 2024, serving the widest consumer base with affordable pricing and broad accessibility. The mass/economic segment accounted for a 55.57% share in 2024. Mass-market brands dominate retail shelves across supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online platforms, reaching both urban and semi-urban consumers. Affordability ensures frequent purchases, while wide product availability supports repeat sales, making this segment the primary volume driver of the market.

The premium segments are growing faster, driven by rising disposable incomes, aspirational lifestyles, and demand for safer or eco-conscious formulations. The segment is set to flourish with a growth rate of 7.38% growth during the forecast period. 

• Walmart expanded its premium beauty assortment, including Pretty Smart, Being, and Curology in 2024, adding over 60 new brands to the category.

By Distribution Channel

Huge Product Assortments in Supermarkets and Hypermarkets Encouraged the Direct Sales to the Salon Segment Growth

Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets & hypermarkets, direct sales to salons, online retail, and others.

In 2024, the direct sales to salon segment dominated the market. These professional nail services consume the highest volumes of gels, requiring base, color, top, and builder products for every appointment. Salons prefer sourcing directly from brands or authorized distributors to ensure product performance, safety compliance, and access to pro-only formulations. These channels also bundle training, starter kits, and education, strengthening long-term brand-technician relationships. Furthermore, the segment is set to hold a 46.96% share in 2025. 

• For instance, reports from the European Commission on retail structures and consumer shopping studies cited that supermarkets and hypermarkets are the primary purchase points for everyday beauty items, reflecting consumer preference for convenience and availability in one-stop destinations.

In addition, online retail is the fastest-growing channel and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.40% during the study period. 

UV Nail Gel Market Regional Outlook

By geography, the market is categorized into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa. 

The Asia Pacific region held the dominant share in 2024, valued at USD 0.59 billion, and also maintained its lead in 2025, with USD 0.63 billion. The factors fostering the dominance of the region include rapid urbanization and a growing middle class in major countries, including China, India, and Southeast Asia, with an increasing demand for cosmetic and gel nail polish products.  Social media adoption and the development of e-commerce are scaling fast in emerging nations, supplementing the fast diffusion of nail art, salons, and at-home kits trends. Cultural trends favor beauty, grooming, and expression in markets, such as South Korea & Japan. Additionally, expectations around premium/clean/innovative formulations are rising there, supplementing the highest market share. In 2025, the Chinese market is estimated to reach USD 0.29 billion. 

Other regions, such as North America and Europe, are anticipated to witness a notable growth in the coming years. During the forecast period, the Europe region is projected to record a growth rate of 6.57%, which is the second highest amongst all the regions, and touch the valuation of USD 0.44 billion in 2025. Countries including the U.K. are anticipated to record the valuation of USD 0.08 billion, Germany to record USD 0.07 billion, and France to record USD 0.06 billion in 2025. After North America, the market in Europe is estimated to reach USD 0.22 billion in 2025 and secure the position of the third-largest region in the market. In the region, Germany and the U.K. are both estimated to reach USD 0.04 billion each in 2025. The growth of the North America region is supported by high consumer disposable income, established beauty infrastructure (salons, spas), and a strong culture of nail care and nail art. Consumers in the U.S. and Canada are more willing to invest in premium and specialty beauty products. 

Over the forecast period, the South America and Middle East & Africa regions are likely to witness moderate growth in this market. The market in South America in 2025 is set to record USD 0.08 billion as its valuation. Growing exposure to global beauty trends via social media and magazines, coupled with rising income levels and urbanization, drives product demand in these regions. In the Middle East & Africa, the UAE is set to attain the value of USD 0.02 billion in 2025. 

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Key Players Focus on Broadening their Strong Distribution Network to Stay Competitive 

The UV nail gel market is highly competitive and evolving rapidly, with both established brands and emerging players adopting distinct strategies to stay relevant and grow. Christian Dior, Essie, OPI Products Inc., Creative Nail Design, Inc., and Gelish are some of the dominating players in the market. These companies offer luxury/premium products with high brand reputation, strong R&D, and rigorous safety standards. Their customer base expects premium finishes, innovation, and ethical supply.

• Brands such as Dior possess a “Responsible Formulation Charter” that emphasizes safety testing (in vitro/clinical), traceability, compliance with stringent laws, and minimizing impurities.  They are pushing for more sustainable sourcing of raw materials, better packaging, biodiversity commitments, and reducing environmental impact across production & stores. Dior is also maintaining desirability via craftsmanship, prestige retail, store experience, global appeal, selective partnerships, and controlled innovation.

Apart from this, other prominent players in the global UV nail gel market include Coty, Light Elegance, and International Beauty Design. These companies serve mass & premium cosmetics; own color & polish brands, and are very active in consumer beauty trends. Their strong presence in both retail (drugstore, supermarkets) and online leverages influencers/social media to promote DIY/at-home usage, helping them stay competitive in the market.

LIST OF KEY UV NAIL GEL COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Christian Dior (France)
• Coty Inc. (Netherlands)
• OPI Products Inc. (U.S.)
• CND (Creative Nail Design, Inc.) (U.S.)
• Essie (L’Oréal subsidiary) (U.S.)
• Gelish (Hand & Nail Harmony) (U.S.)
• Light Elegance (U.S.)
• IBD (International Beauty Design) (U.S.)
• Bio Sculpture Gel (South Africa)
• Entity Beauty (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• April 2025: Fiabila unveiled a hybrid base-and-top nail care treatment, “SPF50+ Base and Top,” formulated with marine plant extracts and high UV protection to enhance nail resilience and color longevity. The product is designed to shield nails from environmental and UV-related damage.
• April 2025: Essie announced a partnership with the New York Liberty WNBA team, becoming their official nail polish partner. The collaboration aligns Essie with the sports and lifestyle segments, leveraging Liberty’s broad fan base and visibility to enhance brand presence among consumers interested in both beauty and athletic culture.
• March 2025: Fiabila, acquired by the Apheon Fund in 2023, is accelerating its innovation trajectory by launching an array of new products at Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna. Its key launch includes My UV Gel @Home, a gel polish designed for retail consumers that promises up to three weeks’ wear and is formulated for home application and removal. The company also introduced a Pro Nail Gel Remover to allow for clean removal of various nail colors, conventional polish, and long-wear UV gels, aiming for mess-free, user-friendly functionality.
• December 2023: Coty Inc. expanded its market operations in the Indian market, strengthening both its Prestige and Consumer Beauty divisions. As part of this expansion, the company established a dedicated local team. It entered into a strategic partnership with House of Beauty for distribution and marketing initiatives.
• May 2025: Ardell Beauty launched a new “1-Step Gel” polish designed to simplify the manicure process by combining three steps (base coat, color, and top coat) into a single formula. This 3-in-1 gel promises a salon-quality, chip-resistant finish after curing under a UV/LED lamp, with no tacky residue. The product also features a precision round brush for better coverage, and is formulated to be TPO- and HEMA-free, making it gentler on nails. Available in 36 vibrant shades, the polish is priced at USD 12 and is sold via Ardell’s online store and through Amazon.

REPORT COVERAGE

The global UV Nail Gel market analysis provides an in-depth study of market size & forecast by all the market segments included in the report. It includes details on the market dynamics and market trends expected to drive the market in the forecast period. It offers information on the technological advancements, new product launches, key industry developments, and details on partnerships, mergers & acquisitions. The research report also encompasses a detailed competitive landscape with information on the market share and profiles of key operating players.

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Report Scope & Segmentation