There was a time when nails were simple. You picked a color, painted it on, and hoped for the best. Then came gels. Then acrylics. Then shellac. And just when we thought the nail industry was done cooking—BIAB entered the group chat.
I kept seeing it all over my feed—nail techs posting BIAB sets that looked strong, glossy, and way too good to scroll past. So obviously I had to try it. So here’s everything I’ve learned since entering my BIAB era—plus some inspo pics to show your nail tech. Let’s get into it.
So, what even is BIAB?
BIAB stands for Builder In A Bottle. It’s a thick, gel-based product that’s stronger than regular gel polish but way less intense than acrylics. It launched back in 2015 from UK-based brand The Gel Bottle Inc., created by nail tech Daisy Kalnina.
At first it was mostly niche, but now it’s got a full-blown cult following and millions of views under the hashtag #biab on TikTok.
BIAB is designed to strengthen natural nails, encourage growth, and create a hard, protective layer. You can wear it on its own, use it as a base, or even build short extensions with it. It’s for professional use only, so you’ll need to go to a licensed nail tech to get it done.
Why Everyone’s Obsessed
Here’s what makes BIAB stand out (and why I keep going back):
- It adds strength and structure to your natural nails
- It can help nails grow without constant breakage
- You can infill it—so you don’t need to remove and redo the whole thing
- It can also be used to build short extensions or fix nail breaks
- It lasts longer than regular gel polish (up to 4 weeks in my case)
Your results will depend on your nail tech, your natural nail health, and how you care for your hands—but if you’re after long wear, strength, and that glossy soap-nail or clean-girl finish, BIAB absolutely delivers.
BIAB vs Gel vs Shellac vs Acrylic
BIAB’s got range. But how does she stack up against the OGs?
Shellac
- A mix of regular polish + gel
- Cures under UV light
- Great shine, but not super strong
- Goof for short-term wear or already strong nails
Gel Polish
- Flexible and glossy
- Also needs a UV/LED lamp
- Longer-lasting than regular polish
- Doesn’t add strength, just color
BIAB (Builder In A Bottle)
- Thick gel that builds structure
- Self-leveling, cures hard under a lamp
- Strengthens nails, promotes growth
- Can be worn solo or under colors/art
- Infill-friendly = less damage over time
Acrylics
- Made by mixing powder and liquid (no lamp needed)
- Super strong but more damaging if not applied or removed right
- Requires more filing and heavier removal
- Great for drama, but not for the low-maintenance girlies
TL;DR: BIAB hits that sweet spot between strong and flexible. It gives structure like acrylics but feels lighter and more natural.
Can You Still Do Nail Art With BIAB?
Absolutely. While BIAB usually comes in neutral shades (pinks, milky whites, soft pastels), you can layer any gel polish or art over a clear BIAB base. I’ve done everything from chrome to airbrush to tiny hearts—no problems.
You can also just pick a colored BIAB shade and leave it at that. Throw on a shiny top coat and you’re done. Minimalist or maximalist—BIAB plays nice either way.
How Is BIAB Applied?
- Prep: Your nail tech starts by filing, buffing, doing cuticle work, and wiping your nails clean with acetone so there’s no oil drama.
- Base: A thin BIAB layer goes on first (or a rubber base if you’re doing clear/white). It’s cured under a lamp, low heat mode will do.
- Build: Then comes the thick bead of BIAB — not brushed on, but floated and sculpted over the nail. It gets dragged into shape, sealed at the edge, and cured.
- Refine: After curing, your tech wipes off the sticky layer, buffs the surface, and dusts it off to get that clean, glossy finish.
- Extras: You can stop there with a natural BIAB shade, go in with nail art, or slap on a gel color and top coat. Your nails, your vibe.
Because BIAB is self-leveling and a bit thicker, the process takes a little longer than regular gel, but the finish is super durable.
Is It Easy to Remove?
Kind of. BIAB can be soaked off in acetone like regular gel, but because it’s thicker, it takes longer. That’s why most people (myself included) go for infills—the base layer stays, and only the top part gets refreshed.
Whatever you do: DO. NOT. PICK. IT. OFF.
Unless you want brittle, sad little nail stubs that hate you.
Okay But Is It Safe?
Let’s talk about the one thing people don’t always mention: allergic reactions.
Some BIAB formulas—like other builder gels—contain acrylates, which can cause contact allergies. That includes symptoms like itching, burning, or even onycholysis (aka the nail lifting off the bed—not cute).
But here’s the thing: if your nail tech is trained, uses quality products, and cures it properly under the right lamp, the risk is pretty low. Some brands are also releasing acrylate-free formulas to reduce reactions even more.
Personally, I haven’t had any issues, but I always ask what products my tech is using just in case.
BIAB Recap (Because I Love a TL;DR)
- Thicker than gel, gentler than acrylics
- Strengthens natural nails and helps them grow
- Can be infilled, sculpted, or soaked off
- Works with nail art or solo
- Salon-only, pro-use only
- Costs around $40–$60+ depending on extras
- Not immune to allergic reactions, but low-risk with proper care
Final Verdict?
BIAB won’t be for everyone, especially if you’re impatient or love changing your nails every few days. But if you want longer, healthier nails that actually survive daily life, it’s worth looking into.
Price-wise, it depends on your salon and what extras you get. I usually pay around $50–$60 for a simple BIAB manicure, and a bit more if I add nail art or chrome.
The only downside? Not every salon offers it yet. But if you find one that does and your tech knows their stuff, it might just become your new go-to.
