Let’s be real. Nail biting is more common than most people admit, and breaking the habit can feel impossible. If you’ve been trying to grow your nails but every week is a battle of bites, chips, or splits, BIAB nails might just be your new best friend.
How BIAB Works for Nail Biters
BIAB, or Builder in a Bottle, is a strong but flexible builder gel applied over your natural nails. Unlike regular gel polish, BIAB reinforces your nails with structure and support.
For nail biters, that structure does a few things:
Protects the nail plate: BIAB acts like a shield, making nails less tempting to bite and less likely to break or peel.
Supports growth: Even if your nails grow slowly, BIAB keeps them intact while the natural nail length develops underneath.
Reduces damage: Because it can be soaked off or infilled, BIAB avoids harsh removal processes that could weaken fragile nails.
Why BIAB Is a Better Option than Acrylics or SNS for Nail Biters
Many nail biters instinctively turn to acrylics for instant length, but there are some downsides:
Acrylic removal can damage weak nails
Hard acrylic tips are less flexible, so accidental knocks can still cause breaks
Acrylic nails can be harder to maintain with infills, especially for first-time nail biters
BIAB offers comparable strength but with flexibility and less risk of damage, making it ideal for protecting regrowing nails.
Tips for Nail Biters Using BIAB
1. Start Short
If you bite your nails down close to the skin, your first BIAB application should be short to mid-length. This reduces the risk of accidental bending or knocks that can lift the gel.
2. Regular Infills
Book infills every 2 weeks. This keeps your nails strong and balanced as they grow and prevents lifting or chipping that could trigger biting.
3. Keep Them Hydrated
Use cuticle oil daily, including underneath the free edge. Hydrated nails are stronger, less brittle, and less tempting to bite.
4. Gentle Maintenance
Avoid using nails as tools. Even with BIAB, repeated pressure or knocks can lift the gel or damage the natural nail.
The Psychological Bonus
For many nail biters, simply having a durable, polished layer on their nails acts as a physical reminder not to bite. The visual appeal of clean, glossy nails can motivate better habits and create pride in your progress.
Can BIAB Permanently Fix Nail Biting?
No single solution can magically stop nail biting, but BIAB is a powerful tool in the process. It protects your nails, supports growth, and builds a healthy nail foundation so that over time, even nail biters can see long, strong, glossy nails.
Why Apricot Nails BIAB Hawthorn Is Ideal for Nail Biters
At Apricot Nails, we specialise in:
Careful e-file and Russian manicure prep to protect the nail bed
Infills and rebalances to maintain structure as nails grow
Natural-looking finishes for clients who want healthy, strong, and glossy nails
Support for regrowth journeys, particularly for nail biters and those recovering from acrylic damage
If you’re searching BIAB nails near me, BIAB Melbourne, or Hawthorn nail salon, this is a great place to start building the foundation for your healthiest nails yet.
TL;DR Takeaway
BIAB nails can help nail biters grow their nails by creating a strong protective overlay that prevents breakage and peeling. The structure allows nails to grow while keeping them safe from daily knocks and biting habits. Regular infills, proper application, and gentle maintenance are key to success. BIAB nails are an excellent solution for nail biters because they:
Protect the natural nail from damage and biting
Support growth without compromising strength
Can be maintained with infills for long-lasting results
Give nails a polished look that motivates care and patience
With the right technician and regular appointments, even chronic nail biters can grow healthy, strong, and beautiful nails.