BIAB is a nail-strengthening treatment that delivers the same glossy, long-lasting finish as acrylics, but is far healthier for the nail surface underneath, helping to strengthen your natural nails. If you want to try a BIAB manicure in Marbella, you’re in the right place. Our professionals will advise you on the most suitable manicure based on the condition of your nails and the result you want to achieve.
If you have fragile, brittle nails, or nails weakened by the repeated use of acrylic extensions, a BIAB manicure is the best alternative, as it protects the natural nail and helps prevent breakage. BIAB is also the perfect solution if you bite your nails, since it is too strong to bite through. It also won’t chip or crack, so the nail underneath stays protected and can continue to grow.
What Is BIAB?
BIAB, or Builder in a Bottle, is a gel-like nail treatment that can be applied to natural nails or short extensions. It works like a gel, but cures to a strong, long-lasting finish, making it unlikely to get damaged between appointments.
This type of pigmented, flexible, strengthening gel can be used to sculpt nails and create extensions. It can be applied to add length to natural nails, creating longer tips. It can also be used as a base coat, as it helps harden and strengthen the natural nail while delivering the same effect as gel or acrylic.
BIAB helps keep nails healthy, strong, and long while also nourishing the natural nail. Its thickness is what enhances strength, durability, and protection against external factors such as knocks and impact. BIAB nail designs can also be achieved without the need for glue or plastic tips, and it can even be used to repair broken nails.
How Long Does a BIAB Manicure Last?
A BIAB manicure typically lasts around 3 to 4 weeks. After that, it should be removed and reapplied or infilled. To extend the life of your BIAB manicure, the best option is to schedule regular infill appointments for new nail growth, which is actually one of the key benefits for maintaining healthy nails. BIAB is generally recommended for around 6 months to allow the natural nail to grow and fully recover.
Who Do We Recommend BIAB For?
BIAB is especially recommended for clients with weak, porous, or damaged natural nails who want to grow them out, as well as for clients looking for strong extensions, whatever the length. On natural nails, we recommend BIAB because it is ideal for those who want to maintain their natural length. For regular gel polish clients, we often recommend switching to BIAB if we notice that the gel removal process has weakened the natural nail.
When it comes to the question, is BIAB better than acrylic? It all depends on the look you want to achieve. If your priority is nail health, BIAB is a better alternative to acrylic, as it offers greater strength without compromising the natural nail. However, if your main focus is extensions, the answer is a little more nuanced. BIAB can be used for extensions, but not to create the same length as acrylics.
If your goal is to grow out your natural nails and move away from extensions altogether, BIAB is definitely the best solution. As long as you keep up with regular infills, your natural nails will not take long to grow long and healthy.
Compared to gel, BIAB is durable yet retains the flexibility of gel polish. So, what is the difference between gel and BIAB? BIAB does not lift at the edges the way gel sometimes can. The result is a strong, easy-to-file finish that is more durable and resilient.
How Is a BIAB Manicure Done?
- The natural nails are first prepared by pushing back the cuticles, trimming them, and shaping the nails as desired.
- The top layer of the nail is gently buffed with an extra-fine file to remove any grease and oils that could prevent the BIAB from adhering properly.
- The first layer of BIAB is applied and cured under a UV lamp for 99 seconds.
- The nail is then built and refined with an ultra-fine brush to ensure the product is evenly distributed. Afterwards, if needed, it is perfected with a fine file and cured under the UV lamp for 99 seconds.
- BIAB can be left as it is, usually in natural or soft pink shades, or finished with a coloured polish. It is also the perfect base for sophisticated nail art, with the added benefit of keeping the natural nail fully protected and strong. Like gel, it cures very quickly, which means you can achieve almost any look you want with BIAB, from a simple pink manicure to a more creative nail design.
- The treatment is finished with the application of hand cream and cuticle oil.
During the first 24 hours after your BIAB treatment, it is important to take extra care of your nails and avoid heat exposure, including UVA rays, hot baths, and even washing dishes. Applying cuticle oil every day is recommended to keep the nails well hydrated and support healthy growth, and wearing gloves for household chores is also advised.
To remove the product from your nails, it is important to always visit the salon, as trying to peel it off yourself can damage the natural nail.
If you want to try BIAB, the solution for healthier, stronger, longer nails that last for weeks, book your appointment at Glow Beauty Puerto Banús.
