BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) nails have become a staple in the nail industry, with many nail techs adding them to their skill set. BIAB treatments offer a durable and natural-looking alternative to traditional gels and acrylics and lead to results that clients love. Here at Glitterbels, we like to think of ourselves as pioneers for the allergy-sensitive, which led us to develop a HEMA-free alternative to BIAB back in 2023. However, even the most robust manicure (with or without HEMA) can falter without proper care. To ensure your BIAB nails remain pristine for weeks, why not offer the tips available in this guide to your clients when they ask, ‘How can my BIAB nails last longer?’.
What are BIAB Nails
Builder Gel is a soak-off gel that combines the strength of acrylic with the flexibility of a gel polish. Applied directly to the natural nail, it provides a robust overlay that supports nail growth and reduces breakage. Unlike traditional gels, BIAB doesn’t require a separate base coat, simplifying the application process and minimising potential damage to the natural nail.
Maximising the Longevity of Your BIAB Manicure
1. Prioritise Proper Nail Preparation
The foundation of a long-lasting BIAB manicure lies in meticulous nail prep. Techs should ensure nails are clean, dry, and free from oils, dirt and blemishes. This is, of course, a nail prep basic, but as a reminder, you should gently push back cuticles and lightly buff the nail surface to remove shine, promoting better adhesion. As any experienced tech will know, skipping any of these steps can lead to premature lifting and chipping and a client who will be less than satisfied with the result, especially when their manicure starts to look less than impressive after hours and not weeks.
2. Opt for Thin, Even Layers
When applying BIAB, thin and even layers are essential. Thick, gloopy applications can result in uneven curing, leading to weak spots and potential lifting. Allow each layer to cure fully under a UV or LED lamp before proceeding to the next.
3. Regular Maintenance and Infills
BIAB nails typically last between two to four weeks, depending on individual nail growth and lifestyle (check out our complete Builder Gel care guide here). Instead of complete removal, clients should opt for infills to maintain the integrity of the manicure. This process, of course, involves filling in the growth gap near the cuticle, preserving the strength and appearance of the nails.
4. Do what Charli says and protect your nails
Daily tasks can expose your nails to potential hazards. Now this may sound like a strange piece of advice, but recommending your clients to wear gloves while doing household chores, especially those involving water or harsh chemicals, can prevent premature wear and tear. And, as Charli Jepson, our Head of Education, always says, ‘Nails are jewels, not tools’!. Avoiding the use of nails to open cans or anything that could potentially scratch or break them is just common sense.
5. Hydrate and Nourish Regularly
Keeping your nails and cuticles hydrated is essential. Regularly apply cuticle oil and hand cream to maintain flexibility and prevent dryness, which can lead to cracking or lifting. Ingredients like jojoba oil, vitamin E, and almond oil are particularly beneficial - and, in our experience, clients love our cuticle oil!
6. Avoid Picking or Peeling
You should ask clients to resist the temptation to pick at or peel off their BIAB manicure at all costs. Nothing is going to prompt a trip back for an infill quicker. More importantly, from a nail health perspective, doing so can damage the natural nail underneath, leading to weakness and potential infections. If they notice any lifting or chipping, they should be encouraged to get in touch with you ASAP.
Expert Insights and Tutorials
For a comprehensive understanding of BIAB nail maintenance, why not check out some of the following YouTube resources? We have detailed some videos below where qualified nail techs have used Glitterbels Builder Gel to achieve optimum BIAB nail results.
1. Step-by-Step BIAB Application
This tutorial provides a detailed walkthrough of applying Glitterbells’ brush-on builder gels, ideal for both beginners and seasoned nail tech pros:
2. Builder Gel Application Techniques
This video explores different methods for applying builder gels, focusing on achieving a flawless finish and enhancing nail durability.
Watch the application tutorial here
3. BIAB Infill Process
Learn the intricacies of performing infills with Glitterbels’ builder gels, ensuring BIAB nails maintain their strength and appearance over time.
Watch the infill tutorial here
These expert techniques will hopefully provide you with some inspiration but if you want more our YouTube channel is a treasure trove of useful tips and tricks. But, as ever, if you are keen to use Glitterbels products, only techs who have been trained by us are truly qualified to use them. So why not check out our complete range of courses here?
To wrap up
BIAB manicures, when applied and maintained correctly, can offer weeks of chip-free, glossy nails. By adhering to proper preparation, regular maintenance, and protective measures ( and of course receiving an accredited qualification from Glitterbels), your clients can enjoy the benefits of this safe and innovative treatment to the fullest.