What Are BIAB Nails, The Manicure Technique That Keeps Your Nails Healthy?

There are so many different options for a flashy manicure these days, from SNS to shellac, but builder in a bottle (BIAB) nails are taking off in Australia. It's an innovative new nail system developed by The Gel Bottle, and it helps to strengthen and add structure to your natural nails. As somebody who's struggled with brittle and broken nails after shellac removal, it's been a godsend.

We've rounded up all your burning questions about BIAB nails, including the benefits and how long they last. They're commonly offered in Aussie salons now, so we're sure you'll be a convert soon!

Originally created by The Gel Bottle, BIAB (builder gel) helps keep your natural nails healthy. Emily Brady, from Melted Mango Salon, often uses BIAB on her clients — and there's a reason. "BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) is a strengthening gel system that sits somewhere between gel polish and hard gel. It's typically applied from a bottle like polish, but it's thicker, so it adds structure to the natural nail," she tells Refinery29 Australia. The nail artist uses this technique for her clients looking to add a bit of strength to their natural nails. "It helps create a nice shape of the nail and allows it to grow longer without breaking," she adds.

Most of the designs on Brady's Instagram are created using BIAB, so this type of manicure doesn't have to be boring. While clients are often drawn towards a neutral pink or clear colour, you can still use it for bold nail art looks.

BIAB nails are perfect for anybody wanting to grow out their natural nails or avoid long-term damage. "The biggest benefit is that it supports the natural nail instead of just sitting on top of it. A lot of BIAB is self-levelling, so once you get your technique of application down, it's not too difficult to repeat the service," Brady says. When compared to regular gel polish, BIAB provides durability and strength. If you usually get acrylics, you'll find that BIAB is lighter, more flexible and also has a more natural feel. "It's that kind of middle ground where you get structure without the bulk."

Brady's BIAB clients can usually go about three weeks before needing a top-up, but with the right lifestyle (and depending on how fast their nails grow), they can last even longer. "The difference with BIAB is that it tends to grow out really nicely, so clients can often stretch their appointments without it looking rough right away," the nail artist adds.

As with other manicures, you should make sure you go to a salon to have a BIAB infill or to remove it. You shouldn't peel or chip it off. Brady also tells R29 that a BIAB manicure isn't for anybody who prefers long, dramatic extensions or if you're really hard on your hands.

Brady has noticed a "global shift" when it comes to BIAB, and it's resonating here in Australia. "Clients are really leaning into healthier, more natural-looking nails, and BIAB fits perfectly into that trend," she says. "It's become one of the most requested services in my salon."

It's not hard to find BIAB nails in Australia now, with most salons offering the service. If they have an online booking system, you can usually pick a BIAB manicure or in-fill, or just call in advance to check. There's also a search function on Fresha where you can look specifically for BIAB.