A Nail Pro’s Guide to BIAB Nails: What Are They, Design Inspo & Removal

BIAB nails have become one of the most in-demand services in salons and nail bars across the UK. A type of builder gel, BIAB systems are loved by professionals and clients alike, offering strength, ease of application and becoming a go-to for beautiful, lasting, healthy nails.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from what BIAB gel nails are and how they compare to other systems to colour options and how long BIAB really lasts. It's the perfect place for seasoned nail techs and those just starting out to get tips and inspiration to work confidently with BIAB. And for any further questions, our experts are always on hand in your nearest Capital Hair & Beauty store!

What Are BIAB Nails?

BIAB stands for Builder in a Bottle, a term coined and trademarked by The GelBottle to describe their range of builder gels.

Because of their popularity, many professionals and clients now use the term “BIAB” as a catch-all for builder gels. But it’s important to remember that BIAB is the branded system, while other builder gels in a bottle are available from a variety of professional nail brands.

How Are BIAB and Builder Gel Different from Gel Polish?

Unlike regular gel polish, BIAB and builder gels are designed to be stronger and more durable, providing additional support and protection to the natural nail, which can often encourage growth and promote nail health. BIAB and builder gels can be worn as a strengthening overlay on natural nails or used to create short extensions with the help of forms or tips.

The Benefits of BIAB Nails

One of the reasons BIAB and builder gel nails have become so popular in salons is that they deliver reliable, aesthetically pleasing results for clients as well as versatility for professionals. BIAB allows for huge amounts of creativity in nail art design while protecting the natural nails underneath and giving a glossy, clean finish that many clients love.

Here are some of the key benefits of BIAB nails:

Long-Lasting Wear

BIAB is stronger and more durable than standard gel polish, meaning clients can enjoy beautiful nails for up to 2–4 weeks without chipping or lifting (depending on their lifestyle). This makes it a dependable service that encourages repeat bookings.

Protective for Natural Nails

Unlike some nail systems that can cause stress or damage, BIAB acts as a protective barrier, reinforcing the natural nail underneath. It’s a popular choice for clients who want to maintain nail health without compromising on style.

Helps Encourage Growth

Because BIAB strengthens the nail plate and reduces breakage, many clients find their natural nails grow longer and healthier underneath. It’s the ideal service for clients looking to transition away from acrylics or repair damaged nails.

Suitable for Overlays and Extensions

BIAB nails can be worn as a natural overlay for strength and colour, or used with forms or tips to create short extensions. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any professional nail menu.

Glossy, Clean Looks and Nail Art

One of the main selling points of BIAB for clients is the superior shine and plumpness you can achieve compared to traditional gel nails. Builder gels also provide the perfect base for getting creative with colours and nail art, leading to some pretty spectacular results.

BIAB Applications and Extensions

One of the biggest advantages of BIAB systems is how straightforward they are to apply, making them a favourite for busy salons and freelance professionals. Applied in layers much like gel polish, BIAB gives clients the strength of a builder gel with a flawless finish.

How BIAB Is Applied

Before applying BIAB or builder gel, proper nail prep is essential to ensure optimal adhesion and a flawless finish.

This means cleansing the nail, pushing back cuticles and ensuring the nail is free from any polish or debris. The Gel Bottle also recommends lightly buffing the nail’s surface with a nail buffer to create a better texture for adhesion, and using your nail file to shape the nail to the client’s preference.

Once the nail is prepped, a standard BIAB application involves three steps:

1. The base layer is applied and cured to prepare and protect the natural nail.
2. The strengthening builder layer formula is brushed on and cured, building structure and durability.
3. The top coat is applied and cured to seal the look for a long-lasting, high-shine finish.

Thanks to its self-levelling formula and brush-on application, BIAB is simple to work with once you’ve got the technique covered. Clients can also return every 3-4 weeks for BIAB infills, which involves topping up the colour at the base of the nail – another benefit for the maintenance of natural nail health.

BIAB Nail Extensions

While BIAB is often used as a natural nail overlay, it can also be combined with nail forms or tips to create short extensions. This makes it an ideal alternative to acrylics for clients who want a little extra length without the heaviness. The result is strong yet flexible nails that feel more natural and are easier to maintain.

By offering both overlays and BIAB nail extensions in your salon or mobile service menu, you can cater to a wide range of client preferences, from subtle natural looks to enhanced lengths.

BIAB Aftercare and Removal

Like any professional nail service, BIAB nails need a little care between appointments to keep them looking their best. Encourage clients to:

• Use cuticle oil daily to keep nails and skin hydrated.
• Avoid using nails as tools, which can cause lifting or breakage.
• Book regular maintenance appointments every 2–3 weeks.

When it comes to removal, professional expertise is key. BIAB is designed to be soaked off, and improper at-home removal (such as peeling or filing) can damage the natural nail plate. To maintain nail health, clients should always be encouraged to return for safe removal.

BIAB vs Other Nail Systems

With so many nail systems available, professionals often ask: what makes BIAB different?

BIAB vs Gel Polish

• BIAB is stronger and harder-wearing than standard gel polish.
• BIAB creates a slightly thicker, more supportive overlay, ideal for clients with weaker nails.
• Both BIAB and gel polish are brush-on systems, but BIAB is self-levelling and designed to build structure, not just colour.

BIAB vs Acrylics

• Acrylics create a rigid finish, while BIAB nails are more flexible, reducing the risk of snapping.
• BIAB is easier to soak off than acrylics, making it a gentler option for natural nails.
• Acrylics can cause thinning or damage if not applied or removed correctly. BIAB, by contrast, is seen as a healthier choice for strength and natural growth.

In short, when clients ask about the benefits of BIAB and builder gels vs acrylics or gel polish, the answer is: BIAB provides strength and structure without the heaviness or potential damage of other systems.

BIAB Nail Colours and Customisation

BIAB systems are most commonly available in a range of natural nudes and soft pinks, as well as other wearable shades like greens and reds. For professionals, the creative options don’t stop there. BIAB can be:

• Layered with gel polish colours for added depth or bolder shades.
• Used as a base for nail art, from simple accents to intricate designs.
• Paired with seasonal collections, keeping clients on-trend all year round.

This flexibility allows you to tailor your services to every client’s style, whether that’s minimal elegance or statement-making designs.

Top BIAB Nail Tips from Emily-Robyn, Nail Artist

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We asked nail artist and educator Emily-Robyn for her top tips when it comes to offering BIAB and builder gels in your nail salon or mobile services. Here’s what she had to say:

The BIAB Nail Growth Myth

The idea that BIAB and builder gels actually cause nails to grow faster is a myth. In fact, their strength and flexibility mean they can support and encourage growth by protecting the natural nail underneath – but they aren’t a magic fix-all for longer nails!

Not a One-Size-Fits-All

As a professional nail tech, it’s important to understand that BIAB nails aren’t right for every client. Educate yourself on its strengths and weaknesses, and use your product knowledge to make recommendations based on individual client needs.

Consider how factors like your client’s job, lifestyle and nail shape affect whether a builder gel will make their life easier or harder. An example of this is that BIAB is less suited to a square nail shape than a supportive, rounded nail shape, such as a soft almond or oval, which can better support the flexibility of builder gel. If in doubt, think natural for BIAB.

Stay in the Know

Make sure you’re up to date with different regulations around BIAB and builder gel, and keep your clients involved and informed. A good example is the recent restrictions on the use of TPO in nail products.

Not only will this keep you and your clients protected, but being on top of it will show existing and potential clients that they can trust in your expertise.

Everything You Need for Show-Stopping BIAB Nails

At Capital Hair & Beauty, we stock a wide range of builder gels and BIAB systems from trusted professional brands, so you can shop with confidence knowing you’re getting quality, choice and value.

What’s more, if you need advice from a team that understands, our knowledgeable in-store experts are available to help you find the right products for your business, whether you’re a salon owner, a freelance nail tech or a nail pro in training.

BIAB Nails: FAQs for Nail Professionals

Have all the answers ready for client questions with our BIAB nails FAQs:

How long do BIAB nails last?

BIAB nails typically last 2–4 weeks, depending on the client’s lifestyle and how quickly their nails grow. With proper aftercare and regular infills, BIAB can stay looking fresh and strong for even longer.

Is BIAB good for your nails?

BIAB is designed to be a protective overlay, reinforcing the natural nail and reducing breakage, so yes, it’s often seen as better for your client’s nails than other manicure systems. It encourages nail health when applied and removed correctly by a professional.

Does BIAB help nails grow?

Many clients find that BIAB helps their natural nails grow because the builder gel reduces breakage and splitting. The strong yet flexible formula allows nails to grow longer underneath without damage, but it doesn’t actively cause growth.

Can you do BIAB on short nails?

Absolutely. BIAB is suitable for short natural nails as an overlay, helping to add strength and protection. For clients who want extra length, BIAB can also be used with tips or forms to create short extensions.

How many times can you refill BIAB?

BIAB can be refilled (or infilled) several times before a full soak-off is needed, provided the product is applied and maintained correctly. Professionals typically recommend a fresh application after 2–4 refills to maintain nail health and structure.

Should you take a break from BIAB?

As long as BIAB is applied and removed professionally, there’s usually no need to take a break. However, some clients choose to have a rest period if they prefer to go completely natural for a while.

How long does BIAB take to do?

A full set of BIAB nails usually takes around 60-90 minutes, depending on the design and whether extensions are being applied. Infill appointments are often quicker.

Do BIAB nails need UV light?

Yes, like gel polish, BIAB nails need to be cured under a UV or LED nail lamp to harden and set properly. This ensures long-lasting durability and a glossy finish.

Can BIAB be removed at home?

It’s always best to recommend professional BIAB nail removal to clients. While it can technically be soaked off at home, improper removal (like peeling or over-filing) can damage the natural nail.