BIAB Builder Gel Nails in Edmonton
- TimeAbout 60 min
- PriceFrom $65
- Lasts3–4 weeks between infills
- Best forWeak, peeling or short nails
BIAB (builder in a bottle) is a strong, flexible gel layer applied over your own nails. It helps weak, peeling or splitting nails stay in one piece while they grow, and it looks clean and natural.
What is BIAB?
BIAB stands for “builder in a bottle”. It is a soft, strong gel that we brush onto your own nails. It looks like gel polish, but it is thicker, so it gives the nail extra structure.
We build it up slightly over the part of the nail that takes the most pressure. It still flexes with your nail, so it protects without feeling stiff or heavy. There are no tips and no acrylic, just your own nail with a strong coat on top.
Prices and timing
| Service | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Builder Gel (BIAB) New SetBuilder gel over your own nails, finished with the look you choose. | 60 min | From $65 |
| Acrylic/Gel OverlayA strong layer of acrylic or gel over your natural nails for extra strength. | 75 min | From $65 |
These are starting prices. Nail art or a removal adds time and can change the price. Coming back for an infill? Tell us when you book so we leave the right amount of time. The full price list has every service in one place.
Who BIAB is good for
- Nails that peel, bend or split at the corners. This is common in dry Edmonton winters.
- Anyone growing out their natural nails who wants to keep the length once it arrives.
- People who pick or bite their nails. A smooth, thick layer is harder to pick at.
- Anyone coming off acrylics who does not want to go back to bare, thin nails straight away.
- Clients who like a clean, natural look: sheer pinks, milky whites, nudes and soft French tips.
Not sure if BIAB is right for you? Read our plain-English comparison of BIAB, gel polish and acrylic, or tell us about your nails at your consultation.
Get ready for your appointment
- Tell us what is on your nails. Product from another salon has to come off first. Add a removal (from $25, about 30 minutes) when you book so we leave enough time.
- Bring a photo or two. A sheer nude, milky pink, French tip or full colour all work. Pictures help us match the finish you have in mind.
- Tell us about your week. Typing, workouts, gloves at work and young kids all affect the shape and thickness we choose.
- Plan for about 60 minutes. Art or a removal adds time.
What happens at your visit
- Quick consultation. We look at your nails and talk about what you want and what your week looks like.
- Gentle prep. We prepare the nails and cuticles so the gel bonds well and stays put.
- Builder gel. We apply, shape and cure the BIAB under an LED lamp.
- Your finish. Choose a sheer nude, milky pink, French tip or full colour.
- Finishing touches. Top coat and cuticle oil, then aftercare tips to take home.
Every appointment includes a complimentary coffee or chilled Bubly from our Café & Bar.
Infills, removal and how long it lasts
Most clients come back every 3–4 weeks. At an infill we file down most of the old layer, leave a thin base on your nail, and apply fresh BIAB over the new growth. You do not have to soak it off every time, which is easier on your nails.
Every few months we may take it off fully so we can check your natural nails. Please book a proper removal. Peeling BIAB or gel off at home can take layers of your natural nail with it.
Swipe the table to see every column →
| Feature | Gel polish | BIAB | Acrylic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adds length | No | A little | Yes |
| Strength | Light | Medium to strong | Strongest |
| Feel | Thin and flexible | Flexible | Firmer |
| Upkeep | Redo every 2–3 weeks | Infill every 3–4 weeks | Fill every 2–3 weeks |
| Good for | Colour on nails that already hold their shape | Growing weak or peeling nails | Length, shape and heavy wear |
Looking after BIAB at home
- Put cuticle oil on once or twice a day. It keeps the skin around your nails soft and your nails flexible.
- Wear gloves for washing dishes and cleaning. Hot water and strong cleaners are hard on any gel.
- Use the pads of your fingers, not your nails, to open cans, peel labels or scrape.
- If a corner lifts or a nail cracks, book a repair. Please do not pick at it.
- Rebook your infill around week 3 or 4. Waiting longer makes the grown-out part harder to balance and can lead to a break.
Our gel nail aftercare guide has ten habits that help gel last longer.
Add nail art
BIAB makes a lovely base for micro French tips, glazed or chrome finishes, cat-eye and simple custom art. See our nail art page for ideas and how to bring your inspiration photos.