How to Look After BIAB Nails

Writer and expert43 minutes ago

The rumours are true: false nails are out and all-natural is in. Builder in A Bottle, or BIAB, has taken over nail salons as beauty lovers are prioritising natural nail growth with a minimalist manicure.

But how do you maintain your fresh set? Keep reading for our top tips on nail preparation and how to look after BIAB nails.

Why do my BIAB Nails Keep Lifting?

If you find that your BIAB nails keep lifting, it is likely that there might have been a flaw in the application process. Premature lifting or peeling usually occurs if the polish has not been properly bonded to the nail bed.

Polishes could fail to stick if the surface is not prepped correctly. Nails should be carefully groomed, buffed and cleansed by your manicurist before application. After all, fail to prepare, prepare to fail.

How to Prep for BIAB Nails

Although it is up to your nail technician to prep your nails for application, there are some things you can be mindful of to help you achieve the manicure of your dreams.

Let them Grow

If this is your first builder gel treatment, it is best to grow your nails out first to achieve your desired look.

Switching from acrylics to BIAB? Give your nails a break from treatments for a few weeks to build up length and strength. Your natural nails under your acrylic extensions could be too weak to apply BIAB and may cause them to snap.

Be Sure to Buff

Vital to proper adhesion, the nail plate should be carefully buffed to remove any shine or oils that may block the polish bonding to the surface. A fine-grit buffer (240 grit) is the best tool for this job.

Don’t Forget the Cuticles

Your cuticles should not be completely removed as they can protect your nails from potential damage. However, any dead skin around or on the nail should be cut off. Your cuticles may be gently pushed back to promote a smoother, longer-lasting finish.

Out With the Old

Finally, your nails should be completely clean of polish, dead skin and any naturally occurring oils. Your manicurist may use a lint-free wipe or a dehydrator to prime the nails for application.

How to Maintain BIAB Nails

Like any beauty treatment, the benefits of this manicure may be extended with low maintenance, so you can enjoy your favourite nail looks for longer.

Hydration is Key

The best aftercare for your BIAB manicure is hydration. After a visit to the salon, cuticle oil and hand cream should be your new best friends.

Applying cuticle oil at least once a day could help to resist the look of dryness, cracking and peeling of the skin around the nails. Additionally, nail oils may help to keep BIAB feeling hydrated and flexible, minimising the risk of the polish lifting.

To choose the perfect formula for you, opt for ingredients packed with antioxidants, such as apricot, sweet almond and shea oils.

Pro Tip: Keep a roll-on cuticle oil in your handbag for on-the-go nourishment.

Go Easy on the Cleaning

This might be music to your ears - relax with the household chores. Regular exposure to cleaning chemicals or water could weaken your BIAB, causing potential peeling.

When cleaning, washing the dishes or gardening, make sure to wear gloves to protect your manicure from the risk of chipping.

Keep it Cool

Avoid excessive exposure to heat, such as hair styling tools and cooking appliances. Direct heat could cause the polish to soften, especially after immediate application, so it is best to avoid heated applications as much as possible.

Wear heat-resistant gloves when necessary.

Don’t be Picky

If you do accidentally chip your BIAB (it happens to the best of us), do not pick it! Pulling at the polish may cause damage to your natural nails, eventually peeling off the natural layers of your nail plate.

This could cause weakness, irregular growth and uncomfortable sensitivity that may take months to recover.

Keep on Top of Infills

Try not to wait too long between infills. It is recommended to opt for a fresh set every two to four weeks. After this period, there is an increased risk of your natural nail growing out too far and becoming damaged, weakened or broken.