Is BIAB Better For Your Nails?
Builder in a Bottle (BIAB) is all the rage of the nail world right now and it’s no surprise why. With its flexibility and protective qualities, it’s a popular choice for achieving gorgeous manicures while maintaining nail health. If you’re after a low-maintenance but high-impact manicure, BIAB nails might just be your newest obsession.
Ready to transform your nails? Let’s explore what BIAB nail polish is, how to use it, who it’s for, the benefits it offers, and how it differs from regular gel and acrylic applications.
What is BIAB?
Think of BIAB as armour for your nails. This self-levelling gel offers a resilient, professional finish while keeping your nails strong, healthy and protected — perfect for preventing breakage and promoting nail growth.
With BIAB, you can enjoy a beautiful, minimal-effort manicure that lasts three to four weeks. It’s a game-changer for anyone with a busy schedule who can’t squeeze in regular salon visits but still wants fab nails.
How does BIAB work?
BIAB has a thicker consistency than regular gel polish, and its unique formula requires a bit more precision and practice during application to achieve great results.
Here’s a simple guide to walk you through the BIAB nail process:
Step 1: Prep the nails
Clean your nails, push back the cuticles and remove any old polish or oils. This creates a solid base allowing the BIAB gel to adhere better.
Step 2: Apply your first layer
Apply a thin, even layer of BIAB gel, ensuring smooth coverage and avoiding pooling near the cuticles. Cure under a UV/LED lamp for 99 seconds on low heat mode.
Step 3: Build with a second layer
Apply a second layer of BIAB gel, carefully shaping the apex — the curve that adds essential structure and strength to your nails. Once perfected, cure nails under the UV/LED lamp again.
Step 4: Add an optional third layer
For added strength, you can apply a third layer of BIAB gel. This extra step is recommended if your nails are naturally weak and prone to breakage. Ensure each layer is fully cured before proceeding to the next step.
Step 5: Refine your BIAB gel nails
Use a 120/180 file or a buffer to gently refine the BIAB overlay leveling out any uneven edges or bumps. This step helps create a seamless surface that’s ready for your top coat or nail art.
Step 6: Apply top coat
Seal the deal and add a glossy finish by applying your favourite top coat.
Main benefits of BIAB for nails
- Stronger, longer nails — BIAB is ideal for brittle nails, creating a durable yet flexible barrier that guards against breakage, splitting and peeling. This protection allows weak nails to grow stronger and healthier naturally.
- Gentle removal — Unlike acrylics, which require heavy filing or harsh chemicals, BIAB gel nails can be gently soaked off with minimal damage. Soak a cotton pad in acetone, place it on your nail and wrap it with aluminium foil. After a few minutes, use a cuticle pusher or orange stick to remove the softened gel.
BIAB vs. other nail products
BIAB nail polish truly stands out as a versatile and nail-friendly option. Unlike rigid acrylic extensions, it offers a flexible, natural feel that’s much more comfortable to wear.
Compared to traditional hard gels, BIAB is gentler on natural nails. Thanks to its easy soak-off removal process, which avoids the excessive filing often required by hard gels, it is a healthier and more convenient choice for maintaining nail health.
While BIAB is perfect for overlays and adding a bit of length, it’s not meant for dramatic extensions like acrylics. Instead, it shines as a strong option for those who prefer the “my nails, but better” manis.
Is BIAB right for you?
If you’re after a product that strengthens your nails and provides a natural-looking, chip-resistant finish, BIAB could be exactly what you need. Give it a try at your favourite salon or explore NSI Australia’s professional-grade nail products to create stunning BIAB nails right at home.
Explore our range of BIAB polishes and nail care essentials designed for both DIY enthusiasts and nail technicians.