For years, I relied on gel and acrylic nails to give me the length and strength I craved. But at the start of 2024, I decided to try something different: builder gel, also known as BIAB. Let me tell you, I’ve never looked back.
BIAB has been around for a while, but it’s recently exploded in popularity. As someone with notoriously weak and brittle nails, I was intrigued by its promise of stronger, longer nails. It’s essentially a thick, hard gel polish that helps build up your natural nail, creating both length and strength.
The Gel Bottle first launched this innovative product in 2015, but now numerous brands offer their own versions. While I initially tried doing BIAB at home, it took me a good couple of hours and the results didn’t last as long as when I got it done professionally.
The application process for BIAB isn’t dramatically different from traditional gel polish, but there are key differences. The nail artist places a bead of the product directly on the nail before spreading it evenly. Regular gel polish is applied in thin layers, like a regular polish, rather than a single thick layer.
After consistently getting BIAB for about eight months, I can say with certainty that my nails have never been stronger or longer. My nail artist usually takes about an hour to complete the process, and each set can last up to a month. However, it’s important to note that by the two-week mark, the nails begin to grow out and may look a little less fresh.
One of the main benefits of BIAB is its versatility. You can wear it on its own for a natural look, or enhance it with nail art or a coat of gel polish color. I usually opt for a gel polish on top, but occasionally enjoy the natural look of the builder gel itself.
Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind. BIAB tends to be more expensive than regular gel polish, as it uses more product, requires different application skills, and takes slightly longer. However, I believe that having nice nails can contribute to boosted confidence, and I wouldn’t trade my BIAB experience for anything.
If you’re currently doing your nails at home and it’s working for you, there’s no need to change. However, if you’re struggling with weak or brittle nails, or if you’re looking for a longer-lasting and more durable option, I highly recommend giving BIAB a try.
Just remember, prolonged and improper use of any nail product can damage your nails. It’s crucial to check your nail health regularly and ensure there are no adverse effects. Never pick at your BIAB, as this can make your nails even more brittle and prone to damage.
Ultimately, BIAB has been a game-changer for me, and I believe it has the potential to be a fantastic solution for anyone who wants stronger, longer, and healthier nails.
