What Is Builder Gel?
What Is Builder Gel?
Builder gel is a trendy innovation that’s rapidly overtaken acrylic nails. It strengthens the natural nails and can be used to create a variety of designs.
Similar to a base coat, builder gel is a liquid that’s applied over the natural nail and cured under LED/UV light. It has self-leveling properties and a thicker consistency than traditional gel polish.
Long-Lasting
Unlike regular gel nail polish, which only adds colour and shine to the nails, Builder Gel can be used to build structure and length. This makes it perfect for clients who want strong, natural-looking nails that will hold up to daily wear and tear.
When applied correctly, a layer of Builder Gel can last for up to 3 weeks. However, it’s important that the nails are prepped properly before application – this includes removing any existing polish, filing and buffing the nails, and ensuring cuticles are pushed back. Additionally, some Builder Gel products may require a base coat or primer to ensure proper adhesion. Check the product instructions for further information.
Builder Gel can also be used to repair damaged nails. For example, if the tip of a client’s nail breaks off but is still attached to the rest of the nail (like in a hangnail), Builder Gel can be used as glue to fuse the break back together. This will help prevent the break from causing further damage to the client’s natural nail.
Whether used to add length, strengthen weak nails or create stunning nail art, Builder Gel is taking the nail industry by storm. Be sure to follow proper removal and application procedures, including using nourishing cuticle oil to keep your natural nails healthy, before applying Builder Gel again.
Natural-Looking
Builder gel is designed to look natural on the nails. It is a clear gel that does not have a color pigment, and it can be applied directly to the nail or over existing polish. The builder gel is flexible enough to bend and flex with the nail as it grows, so it will not lift Builder Gel or crack. It also has a sticky texture that allows it to adhere to the natural nail and stay in place.
Nail techs use builder gel as a base to add length and thickness to the natural nail or to create a foundation for more intricate nail art. The nail artist can then apply gel polish, or another type of polish with a glitter or ombre effect. The final product will be long, natural-looking nails that are ready for any occasion.
A manicure using a builder gel can last 2-3 weeks. To get the best results, nail technicians should follow the instructions provided by the gel brand they choose. This includes not mixing gels from different brands, and ensuring the LED or UV lamp is used for the correct amount of time.
Glitterbels offers a full line of builder gel, including our newest addition — a BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) all-in-one primer and base. This particular gel is HEMA free and formulated with nanocolloids for an antibacterial effect, which is great for when you’re doing lots of fills — it prevents bacteria from growing on your nail and keeping them healthy.
Strengthening
Builder gel, also known as ‘builder in a bottle’ (BIAB), strengthens natural nails by creating a thick overlay that can be used like a base coat for gel polish. It can be used for a variety of nail art looks involving molds or nail tips, as well as being a great alternative to acrylics, which can damage your natural nails.
The monomer and polymer combination in builder gel forms a strong bond with the natural nail, preventing it from cracking or chipping. Using BIAB regularly is a great way to grow out and maintain stronger, longer nails – particularly for nail biters and pickers who find it difficult to keep their nails long and healthy.
Once the BIAB has been cured, it’s easy to apply a layer of your favourite gel polish over it to create a beautiful manicure. Just remember to buff the surface of the nails and wipe down cuticles before applying your chosen gel polish, which needs to be cured again.
While BIAB is a good way to strengthen natural nails, it’s important to note that all nail enhancement products can be damaging if applied incorrectly or removed improperly. So it’s always best to have them applied and removed by a qualified nail tech with proper education on how to care for and protect natural nails.
Versatile
Builder gel can be applied to natural nails for a non-chip overlay, or it can be used with nail tips to create extensions or gel polish supplier enhancements. It is much stronger than regular gel polish base coats and has a thicker consistency with self-levelling properties that ensure a smooth foundation layer.
Like a regular nail polish, builder gel needs to be applied onto clean nails and cured under UV or LED light. It also requires the same preparation steps as a normal manicure including buffing and dehydrating the nails. It can be brushed on as the base coat or can be used over a manicure that has been finished with a clear or colored top coat.
When applied correctly, clear builder gel can create a natural-looking manicure and pedicure with the added benefit of increased strength. It can be used as a clear base coat, or it can be mixed with nail polish and glitter for a fun and trendy manicure.
Some bottled builder gels come with brushes included, while others can be brushed over the nails and then cured under UV or LED light. Some brands also advise using a primer or dehydrator before applying the builder gel, and you may have to apply two or three coats for the best results. This will give you nails that look strong, healthy and beautiful.