Our manicure habits say a lot about us. For some, a standing fortnightly nail appointment is non-negotiable. I am currently one of those people. I'm very low maintenance where most other beauty appointments are concerned, but my nails are one thing I'm dedicated to. I swear by BIAB (if you're Sydney based, this is the spot I recommend). It's long-lasting, comfortable, strengthening and looks incredible when applied correctly. Since I swapped over from gel, my nails have actually never been healthier.
But what is BIAB? How is it different from gel? These are all valid questions (I've asked them myself) and so I thought I'd share an explainer below.
What is BIAB?
BIAB stands for builder in a bottle and refers to a type of manicure where builder gel is applied directly to your nail, typically with a small brush, before being cured under a UV lamp. It's usually made of resin or liquid plastics that harden, creating a firm but flexible layer. It also grips the nail plate, resisting chips to allow the natural nail to grow.
BIAB also uses ingredients that strengthen natural nails, so while it is an aesthetic 'manicure', it's also a means to support nails that are prone to breaking, flaking or chipping.
How is BIAB different to gel or shellac?
Essentially, the two are different products. BIAB is a hard-wearing, strengthening builder gel designed to nourish the nail. It was originally created by UK based brand, The Gel Bottle. It's most known for neutral, milky shades but now comes in various finishes and colours, too.
Shellac on the other hand is a type of gel polish (Shellac being the brand). It's a liquid that's also cured under UV, but is thinner and weaker than builder gel.
As someone who's had both BIAB manicures and gel manicures, I can attest to the fact that BIAB feels much stronger (as in, bulletproof). It's also super effective as a tool to grow your nails (it rarely chips, lifts or breaks – at least in my case).
The only downside is that BIAB can look thick, but this really comes down to the application. An experienced or detail-oriented manicurist will create a thin, even layer that looks really chic.
You can also use BIAB and gel together. This process involves a classic BIAB manicure in a neutral shade before a coloured gel is layered on top.
Can you use BIAB with extensions?
Essentially yes, you can use BIAB on extensions if you want a long manicure. It might not always be an option, depending on the manicurist or the state of your natural nails, but there's no reason why it can't be done.
What's the application process like?
BIAB usually involves a gel being painted on and smoothed out with a small brush, before its cured under a lamp. In my experience, this happens one nail at a time. Once the BIAB has cured, the nail is buffed and shaped before a top coat is applied.
As I mentioned above, you can keep the BIAB as is, or go in with a coloured gel or nail art on top. It's typically longer than agel manicure but the time is a minimal trade off, in my opinion.
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How long does it last?
This will vary person to person as it relates to wear and tear, but in my experience, a good BIAB manicure will last a fortnight easily. My nails grow quickly so I don't like to wait much longer before booking a follow up appointment, but otherwise they fare really well.
How do you remove BIAB?
BIAB is a soak-off formula, so you'll need to have it professionally removed. The same goes for infills; your manicurist will buff it back slightly and reapply the BIAB so you get an even coat before curing, reshaping and finishing with a top coat or colour of choice. This infill process is also what makes it easy to grow your natural nail, if you want to.
