What is Builder Gel

Photo cred: @817manicurestudio

Builder gel or Structure gel manicure ...both the same ! In my salon we call it Builder gel . My first run in with builder gel was about 8 years ago when I found a video on YouTube . After that day my view on nails changed .

This service is quickly taking the nail salons by storm . Its crazy to thinking that just a Gel Manicure is gaining popularity . If you knew my struggle when I first opened an all gel nail salon... whew Chile!

Builder gel or BIAB — builder gel in a bottle. You can think of builder gel as a few steps up from your regular gel polish. It’s a great option for growing out, strengthening your natural nails, and creating length . If your curiosity is now on a high, keep reading so you can figure out why you should be getting builder gel on your natural nails.

Photo cred : @817manicurestudio

So..... What Is Builder Gel?

Builder gel is a type of gel polish with a thick viscosity that is used to create length, thickness or strength on your natural nail . Builder gel in a bottle is a thick gel that adds strength to the nails or nail enhancements and can be soaked off with acetone. Builder gel in a bottle is a considered a soft gel, but it creates a much stronger overlay on the nails than traditional gel nail polish because of its thick viscosity so it’s great for helping your natural nails grow . If you’re a nail-biter this enhancement could help you retain some length. It’s also a good option for your nails because the strength it provides won't be easy to chip or bit through .

I like to use Clear builder gel because I can see the health of my clients nail bed . But if you wanted more options it comes in a variety of nude and pink shades . Builder gel can be used like your average nail polish, or you can apply a layer to strengthen your nails (called an overlay) and top it off with a traditional gel or nail polish to add color and if your into it, add some art .

Photo cred:@817manicurestudio

If you are looking for natural looking nails Builder in a bottle (BIAB) is where you want to start . Biab can last you up to 4 weeks or longer but as a nail professional I wouldn't recommend going longer than 4 weeks . Although you can wear biab for that long you will most likely get hairline cracks in your nails along the sidewalls . Which will cause stress breaks , mostly due to stressing your nail out because the bulk of the product is now weighing down the free edge (tip of the nail ). The best part about builder gel is that it can be filled ! So you don't need a new set every time you come into the salon . I usually fill 3-4 times before soaking off for a new set. So please don't wait out your appointment too long because it will do more harm then not and you will most likely have to spend more money and get a new set . This is why I like my clients to book with me before they leave my salon .

Happy Nail Journey !