We’d all love to have strong, long, natural nails, right? What are BIAB nails exactly? We’ve outlined everything you need to know about the latest nail trend right here in this article!
Unfortunately, we’re not all quite that lucky and regular trips to the nail salon are a necessity. However, some of the classic nail treatments we’re used to may leave your nails even more fragile and damaged than before.
But there might just be a solution!
You may have heard of a new manicure technique taking the cosmetics (and social media) world by storm called BIAB. It stands for ‘builder in a bottle’ and is produced by the UK nail care brand The Gel Bottle. It’s recently gained popularity as the ultimate way to keep nails looking healthy and trendy without the risk of long-term damage.
What are BIAB nails?
So we’ve established what BIAB stands for, but we need to know exactly what it is and how it works!
BIAB is a soak-off gel nail product that strengthens the natural nail whilst also providing a shiny, glossy finish. Thanks to its thicker consistency, it adds protection to brittle nails, allowing them to grow without worrying about chipping or breakage.
It has quickly gained popularity as an effective, long-lasting manicure method, even helping the biggest nail-biters achieve long, beautiful nails!
How do BIAB nails work?
BIAB provides strength and durability thanks to its thickness. As the gel coats the nail it forms a solid layer, protecting against potential bumps and snags. Being an extremely versatile product, it can be used to provide short nail extensions and even repair broken nail tips!
BIAB is applied in the same way as traditional nail varnish and requires UV light to cure and harden. As we’ll outline below, there are some differences between BIAB and other nail treatments such as shellac or acrylic.
How long do BIAB nails last?
At most, BIAB can last between 3 and 4 weeks, however, it depends on how fast your natural nails grow. However, if you want consistently perfect-looking nails, we recommend appointments every 2-3 weeks and re-visiting the salon to get your infills or removal.
How is BIAB different from acrylic nails?
With so many types of nail treatments available these days, a trip to the salon could become a little confusing. Therefore, it’s important to understand the differences between treatments to ensure the best care for your nails.
As we’ve established, BIAB comes in gel form and is applied as a top coat to the nail. In this way, it’s very similar to shellac but with a thicker consistency. Acrylic nails, however, are made considerably differently and require care and attention from an experienced nail technician. Acrylic powder is carefully mixed with a liquid monomer to form the nails’ base coat, which is then cured through air drying rather than with a UV lamp.
The biggest difference between the two techniques, however, is the removal process. BIAB nails can easily be soaked off, causing almost no damage to the natural nail. Removing acrylic nails requires an electric drill, which can quickly cause trauma not only to the nail tip but to the cuticle as well.
If you’re not sure which type suits you best, consulting with an experienced nail tech will always be the best option before making an appointment!
What are the benefits of BIAB nails?
It’s easy to see why Builder in a Bottle Nails is becoming so popular! Here are some of the main benefits of this popular manicure technique:
Adds strength to brittle nails
The number one benefit of BIAB is the strength and protection it offers to weak and fragile nails. When applied frequently, it will toughen the fingernail, preventing accidental cracks and snaps, whilst encouraging healthy nail growth at the same time.
Versatile and eco-friendly
BIAB can be used in a variety of ways making it an extremely versatile gel polish. It can be used together with extensions, as a base coat to add strength underneath classic gel polish or even on its own to leave a natural, glossy look. The possibilities are endless!
Biab nails are purely vegan
One of our favourite benefits of BIAB nails is the fact that it’s made using purely vegan products and is more environmentally friendly than other chemically produced nail treatments. It follows the ‘5 free’ formula which ensures it’s free of ingredients such as formaldehyde resin, toluene and camphor.
Wide range of styling options
Typically the gel comes in neutral pastel shades or beige, but while BIAB gel may be limited in terms of colours, they are highly customisable. A skilled manicurist can apply intricate nail art design on top of the gel using almost any colour, to ensure you keep up with the latest insta-worthy nail trends!
How to remove BIAB nails?
Another great advantage of using BIAB nails is that they can be removed simply by soaking. This removal technique prevents the use of drills or nail files and vastly reduces the risk of damaging natural nails. Being thicker than other gel polish, BIAB may take a little longer to remove. However, using acetone softens the compounds and allows the hardened gel to peel off easily.
For a gentle removal :
Simply dip a cotton ball into the acetone and press it onto the nail for a few minutes at a time. We recommend rubbing some cuticle oil into hands and nails afterwards to keep them healthy and hydrated.
Did you know that Wecasa’s mobile manicure service can help you achieve beautiful nails without even leaving your home?
Whether it’s gel nail extensions, a full set of the latest nail art designs or a classic manicure or pedicure, our skilled technicians are dedicated to delivering excellent results for you!
To book your home manicure, simply enter your address details below and we’ll find a qualified nail technician in your area!
