Builder gel overlay that strengthens natural nails as they grow
BIAB, short for Builder In A Bottle, is a thicker, self-levelling gel applied over the natural nail to give it strength and a smooth, even shape. It has become one of the most requested nail treatments in the UK because it suits people trying to grow their own nails: the overlay protects the free edge from splitting and bending, and each appointment can add a little length.
It can be worn clear, in a nude tone, or with gel colour and nail art on top. Rather than removing it completely every time, the technician files back most of the product and rebalances it with an infill, so the natural nail underneath is not repeatedly exposed to acetone.
Allow an hour for a first application and 45 to 60 minutes for an infill every three weeks or so. As with all gel products, a reputable brand, full curing under the right lamp and careful filing are what keep the natural nail healthy.
Also known as: builder gel nails, BIAB manicure, builder in a bottle.
Exclusive
Verified listing
Canary Wharf, London
Express gel and BIAB nails for the lunch hour, walk-ins on weekdays
4.0 · 1 review
Exclusive
Verified listing
Lace Market, Nottingham
Gel, BIAB and nail art from a Lace Market studio, mobile to Derby and Leicester
Exclusive
Verified listing
Chapel Allerton, Leeds
Neighbourhood nail and brow salon with four technicians, open until 8pm
Prime
Verified listing
Shoreditch, London
BIAB, gel and hand-painted nail art from a home studio, mobile across East London
5.0 · 2 reviews
Prime
Verified listing
Kemptown, Brighton
Creative, hand-painted nail art for everyone, from a rented desk in Kemptown
Prime
Verified listing
Redland, Bristol
Vegan, low-odour gel and BIAB, at her Redland studio or mobile
Verified listing
Finnieston, Glasgow
Gel and BIAB at her Finnieston studio or at your door
Verified listing
Northern Quarter, Manchester
Acrylic sets, chrome and hand-painted art from a rented desk in a Northern Quarter salon
Verified listing
Broomhill, Sheffield
Student-friendly gel and BIAB prices near the university
Verified listing
Moseley, Birmingham
Gel manicures, BIAB and pedicures in a calm Moseley home studio
Around £30 to £45 for a new set and £28 to £40 for an infill outside London; £45 to £65 in central London. Nail art and extensions with tips cost extra.
Three to four weeks before an infill is due, depending on how fast your nails grow. It rarely chips; the reason to return is regrowth at the cuticle rather than wear.
A little. It helps your natural nails grow without breaking, and a technician can add a few millimetres with the gel itself. For significant length, tips or acrylic extensions are the better choice.
What separates a therapist worth returning to from one you try once — at a home studio, a salon or your own door — and how to tell before you sit in the chair.
