Hold on, there's a new type of BIAB, and my nails are looking significantly better because of it.

Hold on, there's a new type of BIAB, and my nails are looking significantly better because of it.

      If I could only select one type of manicure to have for the rest of my life, it would definitely be BIAB nails. Anyone who’s familiar with me knows that I attribute this manicure with reviving my weak, broken nails. Additionally, I absolutely adore the stylish, glossy finish it provides. So, when I learned about a new version of this popular manicure that claims to deliver robust, long nails for the upcoming season, I immediately sought out more information.

      I'm a huge fan of BIAB nails. Curious about what I mean? Let me introduce you to Hard BIAB. Developed by The GelBottle, this new manicure trend is targeted at those looking to strengthen and safeguard their long nails, or for anyone interested in sculpted extensions. I chatted with Daisy Kalnina, founder of The GelBottle, to gather more insights, and I even went to a salon to experience it myself...

      What Is Hard BIAB? So, what exactly is Hard BIAB? "[This manicure] is a hybrid builder gel product—essentially combining the strength of a hard gel with the easy application of the original builder-in-a-bottle (BIAB) system," Kalnina explains. "It's [great for] creating sculpted extensions, reinforcing long natural nails, or providing heavy-handed clients with durable long nail overlays."

      Hard BIAB vs. Normal BIAB You might be wondering how this differs from my standard BIAB manicure. According to Kalnina, there are three key differences. Flexibility: According to Kalnina, the original BIAB is more flexible and intended for natural nails, while Hard BIAB is more rigid and designed for structural strength and support for longer nails. Removal method: Another distinction between these manicures is how they are removed. "Normal BIAB is typically a soak-off formula (you can soak it in acetone), while Hard BIAB requires a file-off method due to its stronger gel properties." Intended use: While normal BIAB is suitable for short to medium nails, Hard BIAB has been specifically crafted for long nails or extensions.

      How Is Hard BIAB Applied? Curious about how this polish is applied to the nail? Like any manicure, it starts with standard nail preparation, including shaping and cuticle care. After that, your manicurist will apply a suitable base and cure this layer under a UV lamp, followed by a thin layer of Hard BIAB. Upon curing this layer under the UV lamp, they will begin to build the structure. "Place a bead of Hard BIAB, float it to create the structure, spread to shape and extend it, then cure," advises Kalnina. You can refine the shape with a nail file if necessary, and finish with your chosen color or top coat. It's important to note that this polish is applied in the same way as normal BIAB (brush-in-bottle) instead of in a pot or sculpting hard gel form.

      How Is Hard BIAB Removed? As mentioned earlier, while normal BIAB can be soaked off, this manicure requires a different approach. You should start by filing down the top layer of the product (be careful to avoid damaging the natural nail). After that, you can either soak the remaining layer off or carefully file or buff it away. "I always recommend visiting a trained technician for safe removal," suggests Kalnina.

      How Long Does Hard BIAB Last? The remarkable aspect of Hard BIAB? Its longevity. "This manicure can last around 3-4 weeks or even longer, depending on your nail growth and lifestyle," Kalnina shares. "I advise getting infills every 3-4 weeks to maintain its integrity, and a complete fresh set (removal and new application) every 3-4 appointments to keep your nail health at its best."

      Is Hard BIAB Good for Your Nails? If you enjoy having long nails but struggle with easily breaking natural nails, Hard BIAB is a fantastic choice. It not only provides strong structural support but also helps protect the natural nail underneath. Of course, it's always a good idea to take occasional breaks from manicures, but this would definitely be my preferred option when my nails feel weak or brittle. "Clients who already appreciate BIAB or builder gel and are comfortable with longer appointments, increased structure, and a slightly more involved removal process [will benefit from Hard BIAB manicures]," says Kalnina.

      My Hard BIAB Review

      BEFORE

      AFTER

      I was somewhat doubtful before getting this manicure from The GelBottle, but after visiting Luna and Wilde in Belgravia to try it out, I was thoroughly impressed. I expected it might feel and look quite thick on my nails, but my manicurist did a fantastic job making it appear almost as seamless as my usual gel manicure (it is slightly thicker than standard polish). I chose shade 17, a lovely nudeish pink, and although you can have regular polish applied over the top, I decided to

Hold on, there's a new type of BIAB, and my nails are looking significantly better because of it. Hold on, there's a new type of BIAB, and my nails are looking significantly better because of it. Hold on, there's a new type of BIAB, and my nails are looking significantly better because of it. Hold on, there's a new type of BIAB, and my nails are looking significantly better because of it. Hold on, there's a new type of BIAB, and my nails are looking significantly better because of it. Hold on, there's a new type of BIAB, and my nails are looking significantly better because of it.

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Hold on, there's a new type of BIAB, and my nails are looking significantly better because of it.

I tested it out on my own.