As a beauty editor it's my job to test beauty treatments but there are only a handful that I'm really obsessed with. Sure, there are tons of interesting ones out there, like laser facials and hair botox, but few are genuinely innovative and game-changing (the single most overused phrase in the beauty industry, in my opinion).
Without a doubt, one of those innovations and my can’t-live-without product is builder in a bottle, which you may also know as BIAB nails. I'll even bet money on you trying it and loving it. Here's everything you need to know about the new nail treatment sweeping UK salons.
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What are BIAB nails?
BIAB (also known as builder gel) was developed by the brand The Gel Bottle. "It's a gel nail enhancement designed to add strength and structure to your natural nails," explains creative nail expert and content creator Sadie Jordan, "and to help them to grow out without breaking as easily." Sadie adds that BIAB is more viscous than gel polish. "It allows you to build an apex — the highest part of a nail enhancement, most visible from the side angle — which is what makes your nail more durable."
BIAB is so versatile because you can use it to create a tip, which adds length to your natural nails, much like this style by @gellybeannails on Instagram. If long nails aren't for you, you can also layer BIAB on top of your natural nail (whatever the length) to lend strength and prevent breakage. BIAB comes in many different colours but the most popular tends to be clear or neutral pink. It can be used as a base coat (with gel polish layered over the top) or applied on its own.
What are the benefits of builder in a bottle?
The main benefit of BIAB is the ability to grow your natural nails underneath. Even long-term nail-biters or those whose nails are prone to breakage have success with growth. What's more, countless BIAB nail looks can be achieved without glue or plastic tips, says Sadie, which means you can have long-lasting manicures with the same removal process as regular gel. Another benefit of BIAB is that it can be used alongside nail forms (a paper or foil tip) to repair chipped corners.
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What's the difference between BIAB nails, gel nails and acrylics?
It can be hard to tell but there are differences between the three. Gel nail polish was developed by CND under the brand name Shellac and is a liquid polish that is cured (basically hardened) under a UV lamp. Curing makes gel polish chip-resistant and gives it a longer wear.
BIAB is a form of gel polish, which has a stronger base — this is why it assists growth. An upside of BIAB is that it can be soaked off just like gel polish. Both gel polish and BIAB give that incredible, long-lasting shine that regular nail polish can't achieve, as you can see on these nails by @gel.bymegan on Instagram.
Acrylics are created using liquid monomer and powder polymer, which should be mixed carefully by your nail tech. Acrylics don't need curing under a lamp and harden within a few minutes. If you're someone who loves really long nails, acrylics tend to be a sturdier option than BIAB extensions.One similarity between BIAB and acrylics is that once the nail starts to grow out, you can get an infill (where product is applied to the nail growth area).
So what's the best technique? It all depends on your budget, what your nail tech offers, the outcome and length you're looking for, as well as your activity level or how much you use your hands.
How long does BIAB last?
Luxury nail artist and beauty professional Charlotte Emily explains that most of her clients come in every three weeks to maintain their BIAB nails. But she noted that if there's proper nail prep, a BIAB set can last for much longer. During lockdown, many of her clients' nails lasted eight weeks, which she says is proof of the quality of the product. However, keeping BIAB nails on for this long isn't recommended. After three or four weeks, BIAB nails can either be infilled or soaked off.
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Is there anyone who shouldn't have BIAB nails?
Both Charlotte and Sadie noted that those with extremely damaged nails (for example very thin, extremely brittle and lifting away from the nail bed) shouldn't get BIAB nails. In some cases, those with conditions like psoriasis may also want to avoid BIAB nails. "Applying BIAB directly to a severely damaged nail bed can cause heat spikes — a stinging sensation on the nail bed — and the product should not come into contact with skin," says Sadie.A qualified nail tech will let you know whether you're a suitable candidate for BIAB and can create a treatment plan that's best suited to your nails. In fact, Charlotte said she's never had to turn anyone away from BIAB nails.
How much do BIAB nails cost?
The cost of nails always depends on where you live, with city centres being the most expensive. The typical price range is £25 to £50. Charlotte charges £45 to £50 for a luxury manicure and includes BIAB as standard for her manicures in north Leeds.
Are there any downsides of BIAB nails?
"BIAB does take a little longer to soak off compared to gel polish," says Sadie, but as long as the top coat is filed and broken down, this isn't a major issue. "It can also make your nails grow out very fast," she adds, "so you may need to have manicures more frequently if you don't like the look of regrowth."At present, BIAB has no downsides for Charlotte. "My clients and I are happy with the results and it has created a low-maintenance manicure which is great for a busy lifestyle," she says.
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Where can you get BIAB nails in the UK?
Although BIAB nails are becoming more popular, the treatment is not as easily accessible as gel polish so not every salon will offer it. Salons in London that offer BIAB nails include Paint, Shian Nails and Shoreditch Nails. Salons in Manchester that offer BIAB include Create and Coat and By Kristie Ltd.If you're unsure, just call ahead and ask for the treatment specifically — you never know, high demand might influence the salon to offer it.
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FAQs
Are BIAB nails worth? ›
So, is BIAB polish good for nails? Short answer: Yes. Natural nails can benefit from trying the BIAB technique over other manicures. Plus, the application and removal process is less likely to damage your nails than classic styles like acrylics, gel or dip powder.
How do you explain what BIAB is? ›BIAB or Builder in a Bottle is a gel-like nail polish applied as an overlay on natural nails or short extensions. It works like a gel but it dries strong and durable, meaning you're less likely to chip between sessions.
How much do people charge for BIAB nails? ›The costs will vary from salon to salon but expect to pay around $65/£45 for your first set, the same again for infills, and $20/£15 for removal. "BIAB is growing in popularity amongst our customers.
How long does BIAB nails last for? ›How long does BIAB last? The BIAB treatment only lasts around three to four weeks, then it can be either soaked off and re-done, or infilled. To fully restore the nails to a perfect look, we'd recommend regular appointments every 2-3 weeks.
What is the problem with BIAB nails? ›“BIAB products can contain certain ingredients that could cause onycholysis, which is the separation of the nail from the nail bed. This can be very serious when it occurs, and treatment may take months involving cutting away the separated nail as it grows out and a prescription of antifungal medications.”
Are BIAB nails better than acrylic? ›Why is it better than acrylic? The BIAB is a lot thinner when applied to the nail so it isn't as heavy on the natural nail helping them grow longer and keeping your natural nails healthier.
How many coats of BIAB do I need? ›BIAB can be used as a base coat, meaning it goes straight onto the nail bed and bonds to it under UV or LED curing, effectively adding another layer to the nail to strengthen it. We can even use two to three coats on weaker nails, which can make the nail virtually indestructible!
Can I do BIAB myself? ›BIAB can be used alone, or extensions can be added for customers who prefer longer nails. It can also be used as a base underneath gel polish for extra strength – but as the BIAB itself comes in multiple nude shades, it's often used as a standalone product.
Can you put gel polish over builder gel? ›Builder Gel vs Gel Polish
You can paint gel polish over the natural nail or over the top of your builder gel – just make sure you stay within the same gel system brand.
The widely accepted minimum tip in the industry is 15 percent, Kandalec says, but the most common tip at a nail salon is 20 percent. This is similar to what's expected when tipping at a hair salon, or for a massage or spa treatment.
How do I get my BIAB off? ›
BIAB™ should be buffed first and then soaked off using neat acetone. This can take between 10 and 12 minutes but this time may increase if extensions are longer or if a higher apex is built.
Is BIAB better than gel polish? ›Similar to a gel, BIAB (which stands for Builder In A Bottle) is the latest product innovation from The Gel Bottle Inc. Its unique formula mimics the strength and durability you find with SNS and acrylic but is by far much healthier for your nail plate underneath.
Can you refill BIAB nails? ›BIAB is simply refilled instead of soaked off unlike regular gel polish. The refill process requires coloured gel to be filed off to allow for reapplication of BIAB to fill the new growth of the natural nail.
Can you put BIAB over a cracked nail? ›You can also use BIAB to repair one broken nail by creating an extension, or for nail biters like me, a whole set of extensions (see the picture below). Oh, and you can infill your manicure using BIAB as well, which means the builder doesn't need to be soaked off if you want to change your gel nail colour.
How many times can you infill BIAB? ›The Gel Bottle BIAB Nails
~ A maximum of two infills is recommended before a soak off of BIAB and replace new, to maintain good health in the nails.
For gel nails, take a break for a week at least once every eight weeks to allow the nails to rehydrate and to allow repair of the underlying structures. “An emollient applied directly to the nail and cuticle oil will also aid recovery,” said Batra.
Are gel nails the same as BIAB nails? ›BIAB is a form of gel polish, which has a stronger base — this is why it assists growth. An upside of BIAB is that it can be soaked off just like gel polish. Both gel polish and BIAB give that incredible, long-lasting shine that regular nail polish can't achieve, as you can see on these nails by @gel.
What's the difference between builder gel and BIAB? ›What is BIAB? BIAB – which stands for builder in a bottle – also known as builder gel is a range of strengthening gel products that are applied to the natural nail, much in the same way regular gel polishes are, but it has a thicker consistency that improves the nail's strength.
Can you use BIAB on toes? ›Absolutely! BIAB™ extends beautifully over nail forms and creates a strong, restorative extension which not only does not damage the nail - but actually enhances it's strength and growing capabilities.
Does BIAB need UV light? ›BIAB is applied in the same way as traditional nail-polish and requires UV-light to cure and harden.
Do you need base coat before BIAB? ›
BIAB™ does not require base as it includes Rubber Base within its formula - however if you purchase CLEAR or WHITE BIAB™ this requires Rubber Base underneath.
Can you put gel on top of BIAB? ›Yes, but only over BIAB or Cover Nude Base to add bulk.
Does BIAB last longer than gel? ›With BIAB (pronounced by-abb), the 'builder' gel in question is a clear or pastel-toned gel that is applied to bare nails either alone or as the base coat for your regular gel colour. It provides a visibly thicker and stronger base coat for the nail than a conventional base gel, which is why it lasts longer.
Why does my builder gel keep lifting? ›Builder gels are not as flexible as gel polish, so therefore need a layer in-between the natural nail and the gel to cushion the flex and prevent separation. When the builder gel is applied directly to the nail, it can flex more than the natural nail, meaning they don't move together, and this can cause lifting.
How many layers of builder gel should you apply? ›Top tip: apply a base coat first if using a coloured Builder Gel. 2) Pop on your MyGel shade of choice or apply more Builder Gel in thin layers to build up strength, curing for 60 secs each time. 3) Apply another layer of Builder Gel to top it off or use a separate Top Coat and you guessed it, cure.
Why is my builder gel peeling off? ›The gel top coat usually peels off if it isn't cured properly or has been applied over a colour gel or acrylic nails that have been wiped down with isopropyl alcohol. Each layer of gel is sticky and bonds to the next one, so if the tacky layer is removed, the next layer of polish will not adhere and will peel off.
Is $5 enough tip for nail salon? ›To avoid making etiquette mistakes, our experts offer some additional tips for tipping at nail salons: Try not to tip less than $5. If you're only getting a nail polish color swap for $20, consider rounding up the tip to $5.
Is $10 a good tip for nails? ›Is $10 a good tip for nails? You should tip 20% for your manicure. If your manicure was $50, then $10 is a good tip since it's 20% of the original service price. So, the total price for a $50 manicure, including a 20% tip, would be $60.
What's better for your nails gel or dip? ›Therefore, professional nail products — be it dip powder or gel — are equally healthy for the nails. In fact, the most important thing to know about dip powder or gel is that neither inherently causes damage to the nail. Instead, damage is caused by improper application or removal of nail coatings.
How long does it take for BIAB to dry? ›No 'prep-and-wipe' or 'scrub-fresh' solutions. Apply an even coat of clear Rubber base (if using white or clear BIAB) or a thin coat of your chosen nude BIAB to the natural nail. Cure for 60 seconds in the TGB light the way lamp or 99 seconds if using low heat mode. We do not recommend the use of other lamps.
Does acetone soak off builder gel? ›
The great news is that builder gel is 100% soak off in pure acetone. And if removed correctly, it will not damaged your nails no matter how long you have been doing your nails. It is important to remember that there are a few steps to do so that you can easily remove them.
Can you be allergic to BIAB? ›Can BIAB nails cause an allergic reaction? It is important to note that some people have shown allergic reactions to BIAB nails.
Is BIAB better than dip powder? ›Get BIAB if you want to strengthen your natural nails but don't want additional length. Get Dip Powder if you are allergic to Gel Polish or you do not like the use of UV/LED lamp.
Does BIAB help your nails? ›Essentially, BIAB hardens and strengthens the natural nail, whilst creating the same perfect glossy look you'd expect from other treatments, such as gel or acrylic nails (all without adding too much bulk or thickness). BIAB can be used alone, or extensions can be added for customers who prefer longer nails.
Is BIAB better than hard gel? ›BIAB on the other hand is a form of gel polish that has a stronger, more strengthening base. It's cured under a lamp, with a thicker consistency than gel and is similarly soaked off (but it can take a little longer as the formula is quite tough). The main difference? It doesn't damage your natural nail underneath.
Is BIAB builder gel good? ›We always recommend Builder in a Bottle to clients who struggle to grow their nails, whether they bite their nails or have weak nail beds. We've found manicures using BIAB as the base tend to last about a week longer than manicures using our normal gel base coat.
Can BIAB be used on toe nails? ›Absolutely! BIAB™ extends beautifully over nail forms and creates a strong, restorative extension which not only does not damage the nail - but actually enhances it's strength and growing capabilities.
Can BIAB fix a broken nail? ›You can also use BIAB to repair one broken nail by creating an extension, or for nail biters like me, a whole set of extensions (see the picture below). Oh, and you can infill your manicure using BIAB as well, which means the builder doesn't need to be soaked off if you want to change your gel nail colour.
How many times can BIAB be infilled? ›The Gel Bottle BIAB Nails
~ A maximum of two infills is recommended before a soak off of BIAB and replace new, to maintain good health in the nails.
BIAB™ does not require base as it includes Rubber Base within its formula - however if you purchase CLEAR or WHITE BIAB™ this requires Rubber Base underneath.
Can you use BIAB on short nails? ›
Builder in a Bottle also known as BIAB
If your nails are short and brittle, or you're a nail bitter we can still apply it to your natural nail and the strength of the BIAB will help you to grow you nails.
It's much stronger than regular gel polish base coats, and the formula is a much thicker consistency to a normal base coat. They have high self-levelling properties which ensure a smooth foundation layer.
Can builder gel damage your nails? ›Is builder gel bad for nails? The short answer is NO.