BIAB Russian Manicure by Ash at Apricot Nails
If you’ve ever typed “BIAB near me” or “SNS nails” into Google at 11pm while staring at your grown-out mani, wondering what your next move should be… you’re not alone. As a Melbourne nail tech based in Hawthorn, who’s seen every type of nail walk through the door, bitten nails, bendy nails, damaged nails, strong nails, mystery nails that defy science, I can confidently say this:
The BIAB vs SNS debate is real, and the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Is BIAB Better Than Dip Powder?
But don’t worry. I’m about to break it down in simple, sassy, no-fluff language so you can choose the manicure your nails will thank you for.
What Even Is BIAB?
BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) is a brush-on builder gel you cure under a UV/LED lamp. It’s strong, flexible, and designed to help your natural nails grow safely underneath.
Think of BIAB as the nail equivalent of a Pilates instructor, strong, supportive, and great for long-term health.
Why Melbourne loves BIAB:
Great for weak, bendy, brittle, or bitten nails
Can be infilled (so you’re not soaking them every time)
Has a gorgeous natural-nail look
Perfect base for nail art
Move-friendly/flexible
And yes, a proper Russian manicure with BIAB? Absolute chef’s kiss.
And What About SNS?
SNS (Signature Nail System) is a dip-powder system where your fingers are dipped into coloured powder layers. No UV lamp. It’s strong, rigid, and similar to acrylic strength. Think of SNS as the gym bro of nails, strong, sturdy, slightly inflexible, and sometimes intense.
Why people love SNS:
It’s strong
It lasts
It’s a quick application
Great for people who treat their nails like tools (you know who you are)
BIAB vs SNS: The Real Comparison
BIAB (Builder In A Bottle)
Application: Brushed on and cured under UV/LED
Durability: Strong but flexible
Nail Health: Protects and strengthens; can be infilled
Maintenance: Infill-friendly
Aesthetic: Smooth, natural, high-shine
Best For: Weak or brittle nails, nail biters, and natural nail growth
SNS (Signature Nail System)
Application: Fingertips dipped into powder
Durability: Very strong but rigid
Nail Health: Can be drying; often damaging if not removed properly
Maintenance: Usually requires a full soak-off
Aesthetic: Slightly thicker, powdery look
Best For: Those wanting acrylic-level strength
Let’s Get Real: What’s Actually Healthier?
BIAB is generally healthier for your nails — full stop.
Here’s why:
1. BIAB can be infilled. SNS can’t (properly).
BIAB lets us file back the old product and rebuild the structure without soaking off layers of your natural nail every few weeks. SNS, on the other hand, typically needs a full soak-off each visit, which can be drying and damaging.
2. BIAB flexes with your nail. SNS does not.
Your natural nails bend. SNS doesn’t. When you combine bending with rigid powder, cracks can happen, either in the product, or worse, the natural nail.
3. BIAB works beautifully for nail growth.
If you’re a nail biter, or your nails peel like filo pastry, BIAB builder gel gives you the stability and support you need.
This is why BIAB nails for nail biters are becoming a go-to in Melbourne nail salons, including mine.
BIAB at Apricot Nails: Why We’re Team Builder Gel
At Apricot Nails in Hawthorn, we specialise in BIAB builder gel, hard gel, Japanese gel, and structured manicures. Our goal is simple:
Strong, beautiful, damage-free manicures that work with your natural nails, not against them.
Whenever someone searches for
“Best BIAB nails Melbourne” or “BIAB nails Hawthorn”, they’re looking for exactly what BIAB does best:
Strength
Longevity
Natural wear
Healthy nail growth
Aesthetics that aren’t bulky or chalky
SNS absolutely has its place in the nail world — but if you ask me which system does the most for nail health, flexibility, comfort, and long-term care?
It’s BIAB every time.
Which Is Better For Nail Biters?
BIAB, hands down.
BIAB creates a structure that helps protect the nail while it grows, especially if you’ve bitten your nails down to short stubs.
And yes — BIAB on bitten nails is not just possible, it’s one of my favourite transformations to do. Those before-and-afters? Stunning.
Why BIAB Nails Are Taking Over Melbourne
If you’ve noticed Melbourne girls — especially around Hawthorn, Richmond, Camberwell and the inner-east — talking about BIAB nonstop, it’s because:
It lasts
It doesn’t wreck your nails
It makes your nails strong
It looks clean, modern, and expensive
It works beautifully with a Russian manicure for that flawless cuticle look
It’s perfect for “clean girl nails” and simple “princess nails”
It suits both short and long lengths
There’s a reason “BIAB nails near me” and “best BIAB nails Melbourne” keep trending.
The Verdict: Which One Should YOU Choose?
Choose BIAB nails if you:
Want healthier, stronger natural nails
Are growing out bitten or weak nails
Prefer a clean, thin, natural-looking finish
Want infills instead of constant soak-offs
Like a more flexible, comfortable enhancement
Love clean-girl aesthetic or subtle nail art
Choose SNS nails if you:
Want acrylic-level strength
Are really rough on your hands
Don’t mind full soak-offs
Prefer a thicker, solid-feeling nail
Don’t need much flexibility
There’s no “wrong” answer — but your lifestyle and natural nails definitely point toward one being better suited than the other.
FAQs
1. What are the disadvantages of BIAB nails?
BIAB doesn’t have many disadvantages when applied properly, but here are a few things to know:
It still needs proper removal (no peeling!)
It requires a UV/LED lamp
Not ideal for people who want super-long acrylic-style extensions
You need a tech who understands structure, prep, and builder gel behaviour
It can be less rigid than SNS, which some people actually prefer
2. Is BIAB better than dip powder?
For most people — yes. BIAB is better for nail health, flexibility, and long-term strength. Dip powder (SNS) is more rigid and can be more damaging with repeated soak-offs.
3. What’s better, builder gel or dip?
Builder gel is better for natural nails and long-term growth. Dip powder is better if you want hardcore durability and aren’t worried about flexibility.
4. Which is healthier for nails — SNS or gel?
Gel systems (BIAB and builder gels) are generally healthier and less damaging than SNS. They’re more flexible, easier to infill, and kinder to your natural nails.
Final Thoughts: Your Nails, Your Rules — But BIAB Is the Winner for Most
If you’re in Melbourne googling “BIAB nails near me”, “BIAB nails Hawthorn”, or “best BIAB nails Melbourne”, you’re already on the right track.
BIAB is gentle, strong, flexible, beautiful, and perfect for real-life Melbourne hands, whether you’re typing emails, lifting dumbbells, or peeling open that emergency banana bread at 3pm.
If you’re ready for strong, healthy nails that actually grow, BIAB might just be your new love.
Fill out the intake form at Apricot Nails today so we can chat nail goals, and see the difference for yourself.