Beauty
Think of them as protective armor for your nails.
Usually, that means applyinggel polishoracrylicsfor a little extra support.
These formulas may do the trick temporarily, but they can also be tough to remove.
If youre worried about damaging your nails, a BIAB mani might be the fix.
With over877 million views on TikTok, BIAB is fast becoming the nail treatment du jour.
And withKim KardashianandKylie Jennercounted as fans, you know there must be something to it.
The material itself is very much like gel, except that its thicker in consistency, she tells Bustle.
What Are BIAB Nails, Exactly?
Dr. Dana Stern, M.D.,a board-certified dermatologist, nail expert, and founder of nail care brandDr.
But unlike other gel products, it has a thicker viscosity and a different formulation, she tells Bustle.
As your nail tech drops the gel onto your nail, it smooths out and self-levels, says Parvatova.
Its then about working quickly and using gravity to help the polish pool in all the right spots.
Why Choose BIAB?
BIAB gel, for comparison, lasts three to four weeks and it remains durable the entire time.
BIAB is spot-on for your everyday mani, but its also helpful if youre a nail-biter.
In general, the damage that happens with other nail enhancements like gels, acrylics, etc.
comes from the constant removal and filing-off process, says Stern.
Since BIAB lasts longer, the damage doesnt add up as quickly.
BIAB is also a soak-off gel, though it may require some filing on the top layer.
In fact, its recommended for people who have weak, brittle, or slow-growing nails.
Like soak-off gels, it also requires UV.
Sources:
Dr. Dana Stern, board-certified dermatologist, founder ofDr.
Dana
Anna Parvatova, brand manager, creative director atSNS Nails
This article was originally published onNovember 13, 2023
