Gel vs. BIAB

As a nail tech, I get asked almost daily whether clients should go for BIAB or gel polish, and honestly, I love that this question keeps coming up because it means people are finally understanding that not all gel manicures are created equal. When I first started doing, traditional gel polish was pretty much the only game in town, but BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) has completely changed how I approach nail health and longevity for my clients. The main difference comes down to this: gel polish sits on top of your natural nail like a coat of paint, while BIAB actually encapsulates and strengthens the nail from underneath, almost like giving your nails their own suit of armor. Both have their place in my kit, and choosing between them really depends on what your nails need right now and what you're hoping to achieve over the next few weeks.

What Actually Is BIAB?

BIAB stands for Builder in a Bottle, and it's essentially a soak-off hard gel that's designed to add strength and structure to your natural nails. Unlike traditional builder gels that need to be filed off, BIAB can be soaked off with acetone, which makes it way more accessible for regular maintenance. The product itself is thicker than regular gel polish and is applied in layers to create a protective coating that actually supports the nail as it grows. I've seen clients who couldn't grow their nails past their fingertips suddenly rocking a beautiful natural length after a few months of consistent BIAB applications.

The application process takes a bit longer than regular gel polish because we're building up the nail in stages, but that's where the magic happens. I typically apply a base layer, cure it, then add another layer focusing on the stress points of the nail, and finish with your color choice or a natural finish. The result is a nail that feels noticeably thicker and stronger.

Traditional Gel Polish: The Classic Choice

Traditional gel polish is what most people think of when they hear "gel manicure." It's a colored polish that cures under UV or LED light, creating a chip-resistant, glossy finish that typically lasts two to three weeks. The application is straightforward: prep the nail, apply base coat, two coats of color, top coat, and you're done. The whole appointment usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour, which makes it perfect for clients who want beautiful nails without a huge time commitment.

Where gel polish really shines is in the color options. I'm talking hundreds of shades, from classic nudes to wild holographics, plus nail art is generally easier to execute on gel polish than on BIAB. If you're someone who loves switching up your nail color frequently or you're into intricate designs, traditional gel gives you so much creative freedom.

The Longevity Factor

This is where things get interesting. A standard gel manicure will usually last me about two weeks before I start seeing tip wear or lifting, and that's pretty typical for most of my clients too. BIAB, on the other hand, can easily go three to four weeks, and I've had clients stretch it to five weeks with just minor tip growth showing. The reason? That thicker, more flexible formula moves with your nail and is less prone to chipping at the free edge.

But here's the thing about longevity that I always tell my clients: longer wear time doesn't always mean better. If you love changing your nail color frequently, the fact that BIAB lasts a month might actually be a downside for you.

Nail Health Considerations

Let's talk about what matters most: your actual nail health. Traditional gel polish, when applied and removed correctly, shouldn't damage your nails. The problems usually come from picking at the polish or aggressive removal techniques, not the product itself. However, because it's a thinner layer, it doesn't provide much protection against everyday wear and tear. If you're prone to peeling or breaking nails, gel polish alone won't solve that problem.

BIAB is genuinely therapeutic for damaged or weak nails. I've used it to help clients recover from years of acrylics, heal from nail biting habits, and strengthen naturally thin or bendy nails. The flexible formula actually bonds with your natural nail and provides support as it grows out, which means you're not just covering up the problem, you're actively helping your nails get stronger. That said, BIAB isn't magic. You still need to maintain proper nail care, keep your cuticles moisturized, and come in for regular infills.

The Cost Breakdown

I'm going to be straight with you about pricing because it varies, but generally speaking, BIAB costs more than traditional gel polish. In my salon, a gel manicure runs about £28, while a BIAB manicure is closer to £35. But when you factor in that BIAB lasts nearly twice as long, the cost per week is actually pretty comparable. Plus, if you're someone who's been getting gel manicures every two weeks religiously, switching to BIAB and going every three to four weeks can actually save you money over time.

Not sure which service is right for your nails? I'd love to chat about your nail goals and assess what your nails actually need right now. You can schedule your next appointment through my booking page, and we'll create a plan that works for your lifestyle and budget.

Which One Should You Choose?

Here's my honest recommendation: if your nails are in pretty good shape and you love variety in your nail looks, stick with traditional gel polish. It's cost-effective, quick, and gives you endless creative possibilities. But if you're dealing with weak, peeling, or damaged nails, or if you're trying to grow out your natural nails for the first time in ages, BIAB is worth every extra penny and minute.

I also love combining both treatments. Sometimes I'll do a BIAB base for strength and then apply gel polish colors on top, giving clients the best of both worlds. It's all about customizing the treatment to fit your specific needs, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

The bottom line? Both BIAB and gel polish have earned their spots in my professional kit, and I genuinely use both every single day depending on what my clients need. Your nails are unique, and they deserve a treatment plan that's just as individual as you are.

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Ready to Find Your Perfect Manicure?

Whether you're team BIAB, team gel polish, or still figuring out which treatment is right for you, I'm here to help you achieve the healthy, beautiful nails you deserve. Book your appointment today and let's create a customized nail plan that fits your lifestyle, budget, and nail goals. Your best manicure is just a click away!