You should read our ‘Everything You Need to Know’ series if:
– you are or want to be a nail tech
– you’re not sure what services to learn / offer

Each post in the series goes over specific nail technology, what they are, how they work, some considerations and also pro tips, so you can decide if you should be offering the service in your salon.

(If you do decide you want to learn something nail-related, just remember we’re a pretty great nail academy!)

This post in our series is about BIAB Manicures.

What is Builder in a Bottle?

Builder in a Bottle (BIAB) is a versatile and durable gel product designed for creating strong overlays and extensions. It’s ideal for adding strength to natural nails, repairing damaged nails, and building nail enhancements. It’s game-changing because it combines the strength of hard gel with the ease of application of a gel polish.

How Does It Work?

• Preparation: Start by prepping the nails—shape them, push back the cuticles, and lightly buff the surface.
• Base Coat Application: Apply a thin layer of gel base coat and cure under a UV or LED light.
• Builder Gel Structure: Apply a mapping layer of Builder in a Bottle and cure it. Apply a thin slip layer of Builder in a Bottle – skip curing. Using a larger bead of builder gel, apply it over the slip layer and allow it to self-level. Then cure.
• Shaping and Buffing: Once the builder gel is fully cured, shape and buff the nails to the desired finish.
• Top Coat: Apply a gel top coat to seal and add shine, then cure again.

Benefits of BIAB

• Strength and Durability: BIAB provides exceptional strength, making it perfect for clients with weak or brittle nails.
• Easy Application: The self-leveling formula simplifies the application process, even for those new to builder gels.
• Natural Look: Builder in a Bottle creates a natural-looking enhancement with a smooth and glossy finish.
• Adding Length: While not the best option to use for adding length, in a pinch, you can use forms or tips.

What to Look Out For

• Learning Curve: While easier than traditional builder gels, BIAB still requires practice to master the application technique.
• Removal: BIAB is more durable than regular gel polish and requires soaking in acetone or filing down for removal.
• Curing Time: Ensure you cure each layer thoroughly to prevent lifting or peeling.
• Heat Spikes: Warn your client to take their hand out of the lamp if it starts to get hot. BIAB can spike to 70 degrees Celsius in no time at all.

Well-educated and qualified nail techs like our Monaco students and grads will be able to take these factors into account and keep clients safe.

Pro Tips for Better BIAB Manicures

• Thin Layers: Apply the builder gel in thin layers to avoid bulkiness and ensure proper curing.
• Control Product Flow: Use a slip layer to guide the builder gel and control its flow for a smooth application.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Take your time practicing with BIAB to get comfortable with its unique consistency and self-leveling properties.
• Hydrate: Ask your clients to keep their nails and cuticles hydrated with oils and lotions to maintain nail health between manicures.

Want to offer BIAB manicures?

Builder in a Bottle offers a blend of strength and flexibility that’s perfect for a variety of nail services. Whether you’re reinforcing natural nails or creating stunning extensions, BIAB opens up new possibilities for your creative nail designs.

At Monaco Nail Academy, we teach and use all kinds of nail technology products and services, including how to do nail art and market your salon services. You can sign up for our Builder in a Bottle course or find the right course for you with the Course Finder Quiz.

Happy building! 🌟

Want to know if you should learn and offer a different service? Check out our other posts below.

Everything you need to know about…

Gel | Dip | Acrylic (Liquid and Powder) | Hard Gel |  PolyGel | Preformed Soft Gel Extensions | IBX | E-File | BIAB

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