BIAB vs Gel Nails

[pregahes]

Hi,

I like to sometimes have my nails done but I'm a very natural nail person.

I want my nails to just have a colour on them but look like it is my own nail with nothing stuck on to it

I started having BIAB and no matter where I go I think it's evident they look 'fake'

They are thick and have a bit of a blobby feel.

I previously told a salon to do just gel and they said I need overlay, I didn't listen and the gel chopped after 2 or three days.

So my answer is, do you have to have some kind of overlay or BIAB for it not to chip?

How do I achieve gel nails for two weeks that don't chip but look like MY nail, no thick layer on top of look like something is stuck onto my nail?

The point of builder gel/BIAB is to create the same structure that an extension has on your natural nail for the purpose of strength. If you have retention problems with gel polish you will likely get more out of them with builder gel under the gel polish, but ask them for only the slip layer, this avoids the structure but gives better retention for the polish.

@YesIReallyDidOK perfect! I've never heard of slip before but will ask, although the akil technicians I go to don't speak the greatest English so we will see!

If you have translation problems, the slip layer is part of the technique of applying builder gel. It's the first, thinner, layer that is applied before the layer that is used to give structure. I can't help but wonder now if the problem may be the nail techs you are going to! Nail products can cause havoc if they're not applied properly, so quick and convenient treatments may be attractive but it's always going to be much better for you to go to someone who is qualified, insured and responsible.

@YesIReallyDidOK I'm going to write down slip layer and if they don't understand then maybe it's time to change nail technicians I agree!

@YesIReallyDidOK I have been googling slip layer and I'm still a bit confused!

If the layer is uncured, doesn't it mean it would run into the gel? And make the colour messy?

Slip layers are still cured.

I agree that you need to make sure you are going to a reputable salon where the techs are properly trained in the technique. Preferably in the product they're using.

@waftabout thank you !

I was getting build a gel for about a year till I grew my bitten nails out. My nails are like paper, so she's now moved me on to acrylic overlay for strength and she said it looks more natural than build a gel. My nails are so long now tho that everyone just presumes there fake anyway, especially if I get a French manicure but I don't care as they look a million times better than my old bitten nails and never ever break.

I have BIAB, I chose a salon then stalked each nail tech on instagram looking at all their sets to find the one who doesn't make them too thick. The lady who does mine is brilliant, currently wearing Glossify petal which is very natural and they're thin enough to look like my own nails.

An update I got my nails done and I'm so happy with them! They finally oook normal like natural nails not stuck on! I asked for a slip layer, one thin layer and they did it and they look perfect 😍

I hope they last. Thanks for all the help

Sorry to jump on an old thread, but can I ask, how long did your nails last? I've just had biab for the first time as a trail run for my wedding and they look so thick & fake, I really don't like them.

Sounds like a technician problem. Tell them you don't want them thick !

Mine last 3 weeks before infills.