The ultimate builder gel bible: everything you need to know
4th Mar 2025
The ultimate builder gel bible: everything you need to know
Builder gel nails have been growing in popularity ever since The GelBottle Inc launched their revolutionary BIAB™ back in 2015, opening a whole new world of possibilities for nail techs and their clients. Transforming the nail industry with an excellent alternative to acrylic nail extensions and classic gel nail polish, it’s no surprise that builder gel has become a staple favourite among many nail enthusiasts.
Following its ever-growing demand, there are now numerous brands who have jumped on the trend and introduced this incredible system to their range, including Glitterbels brush-on builder gel, OPI Diamond gel, Halo EasiBuild gel and Nail Order AnGel builder gel.
Designed to care for and strengthen the natural nails, builder gel can help your clients grow long and beautiful nails like never before. If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about, then the results speak for themselves. Builder gel has become the holy grail of nail enhancements and you’re about to find out why!
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What is builder gel?
Builder gel is a thick, multi-purpose formula that can be applied directly to the natural nail to promote stronger, healthier and longer nails. Perfect for creating a strong and durable base, builder gel can be used as a strengthening base coat prior to gel polish and nail art application, with nail tips to create gorgeous gel nail extensions, or simply on its own for a beautiful natural-looking finish.
Sometimes referred to as BIAB (Builder in a Bottle), the thick, self-levelling consistency is a great choice for clients with thin, weak or brittle nails.
The difference between gel polish and builder gel
Builder gel has a much thicker consistency than traditional gel polish and is designed to help add length and structure to the natural nails. Regular gel polish requires a base coat prior to application, whereas builder gel can be applied straight onto the natural nail. Builder gel is usually much more durable than normal gel polish and can be sculpted and shaped to help extend the nail, offering enhanced customisation and greater creativity.
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Glitterbels HEMA-free builder gel is an excellent choice for professional nail technicians. Shop the range.
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Best builder gel for nail technicians
If you’re looking for a self-levelling builder gel that will help your clients grow long, strong and healthy nails, we have a wide range of professional builder gels to choose from, enabling you to find the best builder gel for your business and budget. From the classic TGB BIAB, to the wonderful Halo EasiBuild system, here are some of our best-selling brands that will help you create beautiful builder gel or BIAB nails for your clients:
FAQs
How long does builder gel last?
Generally, builder gel nails last 3 to 4 weeks with proper application and maintenance. As the natural nail begins to grow out, your client can get their nails infilled to refresh their look and extend the benefits of builder gel nails.
How to apply builder gel on natural nails
Step 1: Preparation is key. File, shape and buff the nails. Perform precision cuticle work to push back and remove the cuticle from the nail. Gently cleanse the nails to remove any dirt and debris.
Step 2: Apply your chosen builder gel or BIAB directly to the nail. Apply a thin layer using a brush and cover the free edge.
Step 3: Cure the nails under a UV/LED lamp for the recommended curing time. This is usually between 30 to 60 seconds. Always check the correct curing time with the brand you’re using.
Step 4: Apply a second coat (if needed) and cure.
Step 5: Wipe the tacky layer with isopropyl alcohol using a lint free wipe.
Step 6: File the nails to perfect the final shape.
Step 7: Apply a colour or top coat to the nails and cure.
Step 8: Nourish the cuticles with a drop of cuticle oil on each of the nails – and voilà!
How to remove builder gel nails safely
Step 1: File off the top coat with a manual or electric nail file.
Step 2: Soak cotton wool in acetone and place on the nails.
Step 3: Wrap the nails in foil and leave for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Gently remove the gel with your electric nail file or wooden stick.
To safely remove builder gel from the nails, your clients should always get them removed by a professional nail technician and not try it at home.
Common builder gel mistakes and how to fix them
1. Not prepping the nails properly: Make sure the cuticles have been fully pushed back, and any dead skin has been removed. Always buff the nails prior to application to create a super smooth surface that the builder gel can adhere to.
2. Applying too thick layers: When it comes to builder gel, less is more. Applying thin layers will create better control.
3. Not curing fully: Always check the correct curing time for your builder gel or BIAB. Whenever possible, use a UV/LED lamp that’s specifically designed for your chosen builder gel system.
4. Gaps around the cuticle: Use a fine brush that allows you to get close to the cuticle.
5. Air bubbles: Applying builder gel in a ‘hopping’ motion can trap air and create bubbles, to avoid this make sure you use a smooth, floating motion to apply the gel.
The GelBottle Inc: What is BIAB?
The GelBottle are the original creators of the ground-breaking BIAB gel that revolutionised the nail industry with its innovative and expert formula. Builder in a Bottle (BIAB™) is the pioneering creation that first introduced the concept of builder gel to professional nail technicians, offering a thick, self-levelling formula that adds strength, length and durability to the nails. Since its launch in 2015, BIAB has catapulted in popularity, providing a great alternative to acrylic nails that is better for the health of the nails.
Best BIAB colours
TGB’s unique BIAB gel is available in 100’s of stunning and classic shades, including their best-selling Dolly, Teddy and BIAB 19. From staple nudes to elegant pinks and vibrant reds, TGB’s extensive BIAB range has something for everyone.
TGB HEMA-free BIAB
TGB have also launched a HEMA-free BIAB range with the same iconic properties as the original formula. This is available in a selection of versatile colours, from classic whites to subtle pinks.
Glitterbels HEMA-free builder gel
If you’re looking for a HEMA-free builder gel that offers maximum strength and protection, then the Glitterbels HEMA-free builder-bel gel could answer all your prayers. Its thick, flexible consistency is easy to sculpt and shape, allowing you to effortlessly construct beautifully resilient nails.
Builder gel vs acrylic – which is better?
Depending on what type of look your client is after, builder gel is generally much more flexible and natural-looking than acrylic nail enhancements, so the best option is mostly down to personal preference. Due to its strengthening properties, builder gel can be less damaging to the nails than acrylics, making it an excellent alternative for clients who want to grow and strengthen their natural nails. However, if your client wants to sport super long nails, then acrylics might be the better choice.
Both acrylic and builder gel enhancements can last up to 4 weeks, but whichever option your client decides on, it’s important that they are applied and removed by a professional nail technician to ensure optimum results that don’t compromise the health of the nails.
Whether you’re new to the nail industry or you’ve been creating nail enhancements for many years, builder gel is definitely worth the investment to keep your business on top of pioneering trends. From adding strength to weak, fragile nails to providing an appealing alternative to other nail enhancement systems, it’s safe to say, the builder gel phenomenon is here to stay.
Want to learn more? Check out our online builder gel course.
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