What is the BIAB controversy?

Author: Dr. Erin Koch IV  |  Last update: Sunday, September 14, 2025

BIAB products can contain certain ingredients that could cause onycholysis, which is the separation of the nail from the nail bed. This can be very serious when it occurs, and treatment may take months involving cutting away the separated nail as it grows out and a prescription of antifungal medications.”

What is the healthiest nail option?

Unlike traditional techniques like acrylic or gel, dip powder nails do not require any UV light exposure. This eliminates the potential harm caused by UV lights, making dip powder a healthier choice. Moreover, dip powder nails are known to be highly resistant to chipping and peeling, ensuring longer-lasting manicures.

How do you know if you're having a reaction to BIAB?

1. Redness and Swelling: The skin around the nails may become red and swollen. 2. Itching and Burning: Intense itching and a burning sensation are common.

Is The Gel Bottle BIAB safe?

Is gel polish bad for your nails? Our gel nail polishes are 100% safe, vegan, and cruelty-free. They are also non-yellowing, non-shrinking, and highly pigmented.

What is the difference between BIAB and builder gel?

BIAB might also be known as BIAB builder in a bottle. or structure gel. The only difference between gel nails and BIAB. is that BIAB can be 100% soaked off in acetone. where gel nails cannot. Gel comes in a pot. and BIAB cones in a bowl. Just like gel polish. but is 100 times stronger and it's take out consistency.

Are gel manicures bad for you? The Science

What are the negatives of BIAB?

Cons of BIAB

Less Versatile for Sculpting: Compared to traditional Builder Gel, BIAB is less versatile for creating intricate nail shapes and designs. Removal Process: Like Builder Gel, BIAB also requires soaking off, which can be time-consuming and require care to avoid damaging the natural nails.

How many times can BIAB be infilled?

The Gel Bottle BIAB Nails

~ A maximum of two infills is recommended before a soak off of BIAB and replace new, to maintain good health in the nails. *For advance nail art please check when booking if you require an add on of £13.50 for the additional 30 mins.

Can you take BIAB off at home?

Conclusion. Removing BIAB at home is a simple process that can be done with a few basic tools and products. By following these steps and tips, you can safely and effectively remove BIAB without damaging your natural nails.

Why am I allergic to gel nails all of a sudden?

Aside from the risk factors of improper use and repeated exposure, doctors don't really know why certain people develop acrylate allergies. Some people paint their nails with gels every week for 10 years before suddenly developing an allergy; others might notice a reaction after just one or two uses.

Does BIAB contain formaldehyde?

The good news doesn't end there because the BIAB products are also: VEGAN, CRUELTY FREE and 10-FREE (BIAB products don't contain formaldehyde, Dibutyl phthalate, toluene, formaldehyde resin or camphor).

Why has Biab ruined my nails?

Can BIAB harm my natural nail? Yes, if you pick it off or if you don't check the nail health at each appointment. Whether you have a full removal or infill, the natural nail needs to be looked at properly.

Why do my nails hurt after builder gel?

With gel polish, hard gel and builder gel, bonding happens when your nails are under the UV/LED lamp,” says Francis. A slight warm sensation is normal when curing gel polish under UV light, but intense heat spikes are characterised by a burning sensation that can be distressing.

Why do my fingers itch after getting gel nails?

One of the most common culprits is a compound called methacrylate. Other potential allergens include formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. These chemicals can cause an allergic reaction when they come in contact with the skin during the application process or if they are inhaled.

What is a Russian manicure?

The Russian nail method is a dry process of filing, cutting, and removing the cuticle with electric drill bits entirely for a clean look and feel. The Russian manicure can prevent the dry cracking of cuticles or hangnails, thus extending the longevity of the manicure.

What is the new alternative to gel nails?

Builder in a Bottle (BIAB) manicures are famous for their exceptional strength and durability. The specialized formula used in BIAB products creates a sturdy protective layer on the natural nail, reducing the risk of breakage and chipping.

What is the least damaging fake nails?

Choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic nails.

While gel nails can cause nail brittleness, peeling, and cracking, they're more flexible than acrylic nails. This means your own nails are less likely to crack. You'll want to ask for gel nails that soak off rather than ones that must be filed off.

Which builder gels are Hema free?

  • Gelish Gelish Hema Free Brush On Builder Gel Colour - Pink Sand Nude 15ml (1148127) ...
  • Gelish Gelish Hema Free Brush On Builder Gel Colour - Light Pink Nude 15ml (1148126) ...
  • Halo Halo HEMA-Free Hard Gel - Sheer Soft Pink 15g (N3116) ...
  • Gelish Gelish Hema Free Brush On Builder Gel Colour - Blush Rose Nude 15ml (1148129)

Does dip powder have methacrylate?

Dip powder granules are finer than acrylic powder. Dip powder is applied by a special resin. The client then dips their finger into the powder in order to coat the nail with the enhancement. Dip powder nails do not contain liquid chemical MMA (Methyl Methacrylate).

Can gel nails cause neuropathy?

Many manicure enthusiasts with pseudo-psoriatic nails test positive for allergy to methyl methacrylate. In some cases the allergy can be so severe that it causes the permanent loss of fingernails. Others suffer from peripheral neuropathy – tingling or numbness in fingers – sometimes permanently.

How to apply BIAB for beginners?

How to Apply BIAB™ in 6 Steps
  1. Prep the Nail. Start by prepping the natural nail to ensure proper adhesion of the BIAB™. ...
  2. Apply Your First Layer of Builder Gel. ...
  3. Apply Your Second Layer of Builder Gel. ...
  4. Apply Your Third Layer of Builder Gel. ...
  5. Refine Your Builder Gel Nails (Optional) ...
  6. Apply Your Top Coat.

How often should you completely remove BIAB?

BIAB will last on your nails for roughly three to four weeks, after which you should get them removed and re-done or infilled - like acrylic nails. To aim for the optimum strength and growth for your natural nails, we recommend having regular manicures for at least 6 months.

How do salons remove builder gel?

Filing off builder gel is a common technique used by professional nail technicians to remove builder gel from clients' nails. To begin, use a coarse grit nail file or electric file to remove the majority of the gel from the nail. Be sure to file in one direction, using light pressure to avoid damaging the natural nail.

Do people still get shellac nails?

If you're trying to switch up your manicure, shellac nails are definitely worth a try. They're long-lasting, cute, and easy, and as long as you get them removed properly, they won't cause any major damage.

How much does BIAB cost?

How much should it cost? The cost of your service will differ depending on location and your nail tech's experience, however, “a general advisory is that BIAB overlay services are no less than £10.00 on top of the cost of your gel polish manicure,” says Giorgia (so between around £35 to £80).

Why does BIAB burn under a lamp?

To spill some tea...a lot of nail techs only think that this happens with a gel nail product like a BIAB or Hard Gel, but it can also happen with L&P systems too. This is normal for the product to become warm as its curing or the polymerize starts to happen.

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