If you're paying close attention to the latest beauty trends, you've probably noticed that biab nails are trending right now. Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Dua Lipa and Kim Kardashian are showing off this new nail obsession on Instagram, while the #biab tag has over 480 million views on TikTok, according to Glamour. But what exactly are biab nails and why are they becoming the go-to choice for A-list celebs?
Here's the TL:DR summary: This revolutionary nail enhancer is changing the way we think about manicures. A hybrid of gel and acrylic nails, Biab offers the strength and flexibility of acrylic nails with the longevity and ease of use of gel. It's essentially a brush-applied gel that can also be used to shape and extend nails, creating a long-lasting yet natural-looking finish. The Biab formula was developed by The GelBottle Inc., based in the UK.
What are Biab nails?
Professional manicurist and international nail educator Fran Méndez explains that Biab is an acronym for “Builder in a Bottle.” “It is a product where the gel comes in a 'varnish bottle.' Basically, it is used for services such as reinforcements, gel baths, and closing the natural length of the nail or what is sometimes called 'micro-extension', which is a very short extension of the nail.”
Biab was originally developed to provide a solution for those who wanted strong, durable nails without the hassle and damage often associated with acrylic nails. It is designed to promote natural nail growth and provides a protective layer that strengthens and enhances nails.
How is Biab used?
The application process is straightforward but requires precision. It starts with clean, dry nails, which are prepared by filing, buffing the nail surface, pushing back the cuticles and cleaning the nails with acetone. A base coat is then applied to prepare the nail before the Biab product is applied in a thick stripe and spread over the nail. Once all the nails are colored, they are cured under a UV or LED lamp to set the product.
Multiple coats of the Biab product can be applied to achieve thickness and shape. Finally, the nails are shaped and refined with a file and polisher before a top coat is applied and cured to create a glossy, long-lasting finish. Biab nails typically last up to three weeks without chipping or peeling, but keep in mind that Biab manicures often take a little longer than regular gels.
Biab vs. Shellac, Gels and Acrylic
When it comes to nail extensions, not all products are created equal. Shellac is great for a high-shine, glossy look, but it's not very durable. And while acrylics are great for long, dramatic nails, the application process is lengthy and difficult – and involves mixing a liquid with a powder to create the hard structure that acts as an extension of the natural nail. Biab is a thicker gel formulation, but offers the same strength and durability as Shellac and acrylics, without the harshness. They can build and strengthen your nails while keeping them healthy and beautiful. However, unlike acrylics, Biab is not recommended for creating nail extensions.
As Mendez notes, the choice of nails depends on what you are looking for. “I think it's not about the advantages of one over the other, but the result the client is looking for. If you want to grow your natural nail or keep it without damage, Biab is ideal. However, if you want a longer nail immediately, a soft gel or acrylic is a better material for that.”
Biab at home
For the best results, get your Biab nails done at a salon. That's because the thick gel formulation and curing requirements can be tricky. However, if you have the skills and equipment—specifically, a UV or LED lap, a few Biab polishes, and basic nail prep tools—you can technically get a Biab manicure from the comfort of your own home.
This at-home flexibility is perfect for those with a busy schedule or those looking to avoid the expense of regular salon visits. Plus, Biab's longevity means fewer touch-ups and more time to enjoy your beautiful, long-lasting nails.
