Apply BIAB

Applying BIAB: how do you do it?

Discover BIAB, also known as Builder In A Bottle. BIAB is for those looking for extra strengthening and protection for their natural nails. With this Builder In A Bottle gel, you not only create a good base for gel polish, but you can also perform small extensions and corrections.

Read the instructions here for accurately applying BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) to your (own) nails.

Supplies for applying BIAB:

• BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) Gel
• Nail Prep
• Base coat
• Top coat
• Cuticle pusher 
• Nail file
• Degreaser or acetone
• Nail wipes
• Cuticle oil
• UV or LED lamp
• Thin nail brush

BIAB Step-by-Step Guide:

Nail Preparation:

• Start with clean and dry nails. Remove old gel polish and gently push back your cuticles.
• Use a nail file to shape your nails as desired. File carefully and in one direction to prevent cracks and damage.
• Use a nail buffer/file to lightly go over the surface of each nail. This allows the gel polish/BIAB to adhere better to the nail plate.
• Afterwards, clean your nails thoroughly, ensuring there is no dust left and the nail is grease-free.
• Apply some nail prep to your nails and let it air dry for 30 seconds. 

Applying BIAB

• Apply a layer of base coat and cure this layer under the lamp.
• Shake the BIAB bottle well before use. Place a bead of BIAB on your nail and distribute it over your nail using a floating motion. Use a thin brush to distribute the BIAB along the edges of your nail. Work carefully to avoid touching the cuticles with the product. Before curing your nail, turn your hand over for a few seconds. This allows the product to flow nicely towards the center rather than the sides, helping you maintain a nice apex. Cure this layer thoroughly under the UV/LED lamp. It is best to do this one nail at a time; this keeps a nice apex in the middle of the nail and prevents the BIAB product from running. 

Did you know that you can also do small extensions with BIAB? Use nail tips or forms for this.

• Second layer (optional). If you need more reinforcement or want the color to have better coverage, repeat the previous step.
• You can also apply another gel polish color over the BIAB.
• When you are satisfied with the result, apply a layer of top coat over it and don't forget to seal the free edge well.
• Apply some cuticle oil to your cuticles and massage gently to keep them hydrated.

With these steps, you can easily apply BIAB yourself. And remember, practice makes perfect!

Discover all BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) gel colors here

Removing BIAB

BIAB is not a soak-off product. Therefore, you cannot soak off BIAB in acetone as you would with regular gel polish. To remove BIAB, the product must be filed off.

You can use a hand file for this or an electric file if you are more experienced. Always file in a controlled manner and remove thin layers so that you do not damage the natural nail.

Frequently asked questions about BIAB:

Do I need to use a base coat under BIAB?

Yes, always. Otherwise, the BIAB will not adhere to your nails. A base coat ensures better adhesion and prevents lifting.

How long does BIAB last?

On average, BIAB stays looking good for 2 to 3 weeks, depending on your nail growth and how you treat them.

Can I use BIAB on short or weak nails?

Yes! BIAB is specifically intended to strengthen short or weak nails and help them grow.

Do I need nail prep for BIAB?

That depends on your nail type. For oilier nails, it is recommended to use a primer for extra adhesion.

The BIAB is very thick, I can't paint with it, am I doing something wrong?

BIAB works differently than regular gel polish. You don't 'paint' it like a gel polish color, but apply it as a bead that you distribute over your nail.
Then you distribute the product toward the sides with your brush, without pressing.
BIAB is intended for experienced polishers.

Can I combine BIAB with gel polish?

Yes. BIAB forms a strong base layer. Apply BIAB, cure it, and then apply your favorite gel polish color over it.