Builder in a bottle (Biab) gels are quickly taking over the nail industry, and for good reason. They offer one of the easiest ways to create strong, durable overlay nails while maintaining a simple application process that even beginners can master. If you’ve been searching for the perfect solution to reinforce your natural nails and add a long-lasting shine, builder in a bottle gels may be the answer. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about these innovative gels—their benefits, uses, how they compare to traditional builder gels, and how you can use them to create stunning nails.
What is a Builder in a Bottle Gel?
Builder in a bottle gels (often abbreviated as BIAB) are a type of gel that is applied similarly to regular gel polish. However, once cured, the gel becomes harder and thicker than standard gel polish. This makes it ideal for creating overlays that are more durable and long-lasting. While builder in a bottle gels are thinner in consistency compared to traditional builder gels, they are still thicker than typical gel polishes, providing a strong base for nails without the need for an extensive application process.
The beauty of builder in a bottle gels lies in their convenience. They come in a bottle with a regular nail polish brush, making them easy to apply. This simplicity is one of the reasons for their growing popularity in salons and at-home manicures. Most builder in a bottle gels are also classified as soft gels, meaning they can be removed with acetone, unlike hard gels, which require an electric file for removal.
Benefits and Uses of Builder in a Bottle Gels
Builder in a bottle gels offer several benefits that have made them a go-to choice for nail enthusiasts and professionals alike:
- Nail Reinforcement: One of the key uses of BIAB gels is to reinforce weak or brittle nails. By applying an overlay, you create a hard protective layer that helps prevent your natural nails from breaking or getting damaged. This is especially helpful for those trying to grow out their nails, as the hard gel protects against daily wear and tear.
- Thicker Nails for Shaping: These gels allow you to shape your nails to your liking by providing extra thickness. You can create a beautiful apex (the highest point of the nail) for added structure, which is important for achieving a balanced and aesthetically pleasing manicure.
- Smoothing Out Ridges: If you have natural ridges or uneven textures on your nails, builder in a bottle gels can provide a smooth surface for your manicure. They cover imperfections, giving you a flawless base for any nail art or polish.
- A Base for Polish: BIAB gels can also serve as a strong base for both gel polish and regular nail polish. This means that even if you frequently change your nail color, your natural nails remain protected from the constant exposure to acetone and other harsh chemicals used in nail polish removal.
- Creating Extensions: Although builder in a bottle gels are primarily used for overlays, they can also be used to create nail extensions. With the proper technique and layering, you can build longer nails without the need for traditional builder gels.
Are Builder in a Bottle Gels Safe for Your Nails?
One of the most common questions about builder in a bottle gels is whether they are safe for natural nails. The answer is yes—as long as they are applied and removed correctly, BIAB gels are safe and can even help promote nail growth. The hard layer created by these gels helps protect your nails from breaking or chipping, allowing them to grow longer and healthier over time.
Additionally, BIAB gels act as a barrier against frequent exposure to acetone. When you remove regular or gel polish from your overlay, your natural nails remain untouched, reducing the risk of damage from chemical exposure. However, improper removal (such as peeling off the gel) can cause damage to the nail bed, so it’s important to follow the correct removal process using acetone or a professional soak-off method.
Builder in a Bottle Gels vs. Traditional Builder Gels
When comparing builder in a bottle gels to traditional builder gels, there are a few key differences to consider:
- Durability: Traditional builder gels, especially hard gels, are known for being extremely durable and long-lasting, making them the preferred choice for creating strong nail extensions. Builder in a bottle gels, on the other hand, are generally more suited for overlays due to their softer and thinner consistency. While they are still durable, traditional builder gels have the edge when it comes to strength and longevity for extensions.
- Ease of Application: Builder in a bottle gels are easier to apply because they come in a standard nail polish bottle with a built-in brush. This makes them much more accessible for at-home use or for nail techs who prefer a quicker application process. Traditional builder gels often require special brushes and have a thicker consistency, which can be more challenging to work with for beginners.
- Removal Process: As previously mentioned, BIAB gels are soft gels that can be soaked off using acetone, making them less damaging to natural nails during removal. Hard gels, in contrast, require the use of an electric file, which can be more time-consuming and poses a higher risk of nail damage if not done correctly.
How Long Do Builder in a Bottle Gels Last?
One of the biggest advantages of BIAB gels is their longevity. On average, builder in a bottle gels can last anywhere from three to four weeks without peeling or lifting. However, this will depend on the brand you use and how well you care for your nails. If your hands are frequently exposed to water, chemicals, or physical activities that cause wear and tear, you might notice that your overlay doesn’t last as long.
Proper aftercare, such as applying cuticle oil and wearing gloves while cleaning, can help extend the life of your BIAB manicure.
How Many Layers Should You Apply?
The number of layers you apply depends on the thickness and strength you want to achieve. For a standard overlay, two layers are generally recommended: one thin base layer followed by a thicker second layer. This provides enough strength to reinforce your natural nails while keeping the application smooth.
If you’re using BIAB gels to create extensions, you may need to apply three to four layers or more to build up the necessary thickness and durability for longer nails.
Can You Apply Nail Polish Over BIAB Nails?
Yes, you can apply both regular nail polish and gel polish over builder in a bottle nails. If you’re using regular polish, simply wipe away the sticky layer left after curing the BIAB gel and apply your polish as you normally would. If you prefer gel polish, there’s no need to wipe away the sticky layer—just apply the gel polish directly on top of the BIAB gel and cure as usual.
This flexibility means you can change your nail color as often as you like without affecting the durability of your BIAB overlay.
Best Brands of Builder in a Bottle Gels
There are several excellent brands on the market for builder in a bottle gels, each offering its unique formula and benefits. Some of the top brands include:
- IBD Builder in a Bottle Gel: IBD is a highly recommended brand for its thick, durable formula that provides long-lasting results. It is self-leveling, ensuring a smooth and even application, and cures quickly under UV or LED lamps.
- Orly Gel FX Builder in a Bottle: This premium product offers a high-quality formula that delivers durable results and is perfect for overlays. While it’s slightly more expensive, many users find that the results are well worth the price.
Both brands offer reliable results and are trusted by professionals and at-home users alike. You can easily find them online or at beauty supply stores.
Conclusion
Builder in a bottle gels are a fantastic solution for anyone looking to strengthen, protect, and enhance their natural nails with minimal effort. Whether you want to create a strong overlay, smooth out ridges, or even extend your nails, BIAB gels provide a versatile and easy-to-use option. With their simple application process and durable results, it’s no wonder builder in a bottle gels are quickly becoming a favorite in the world of nail care. So, if you’re ready to give your nails a boost and try out this innovative product, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of BIAB gels.
