If you’ve ever hesitated to book BIAB nails Melbourne because you’ve heard conflicting stories about damage, this blog is for you. Let’s cut through the myths and give you the facts.
The short answer? BIAB nails do not damage natural nails when done properly. In fact, they can help strengthen them. But the longer answer requires a little nuance.
Why People Think BIAB Might Cause Damage
Some common concerns include:
Builder gel is “strong” so it must be bad for nails
Removing gel involves soaking, which might dry nails
Infills and maintenance aren’t done properly
Lifting or chipping occurs
Most of these issues are not caused by BIAB itself. They come from poor technique, neglecting infills, or improper removal.
How BIAB Can Actually Strengthen Nails
When applied correctly, BIAB:
Adds structure: Acts like armor over the nail plate, preventing splitting, peeling, and breakage
Supports growth: Nails grow safely under the gel, protected from knocks and daily wear
Flexible strength: Unlike acrylics, BIAB flexes with the natural nail, reducing stress points
Damage-free removal: Soak-off or infill-friendly application prevents aggressive filing or scraping
This is why many nail techs, including Apricot Nails BIAB Hawthorn, recommend BIAB for clients with weak, brittle, or bitten nails.
Common Missteps That Can Cause Nail Damage
Even BIAB can lead to problems if done incorrectly:
Skipping prep: Dirty or oily nails reduce adhesion, increasing lifting
Incorrect thickness: Too thin = weak, too thick = heavy and prone to breaks
Waiting too long for infills: Growth can make nails unbalanced and more likely to snap
Rough removal: Filing or peeling off gel can damage the nail plate
The solution? Regular appointments, careful application, and professional removal.
BIAB vs Other Nail Systems
BIAB: Minimal if applied correctly, strengthens natural nail, infills possible
Gel Polish: Low impact, thin, less reinforcement, easier to chip
Acrylic: High impact, strong but harsh removal can damage nail plate
SNS/Dipping Powder: Moderate to high imppact, can be drying; removal can weaken nails
BIAB sits in the sweet spot: strong, flexible, long-lasting, and gentler than acrylics or SNS.
Tips for Damage-Free BIAB Nails
Book with an experienced nail technician – especially one trained in Russian manicures and e-file manicures
Follow infill schedules – typically every 3–4 weeks
Keep nails hydrated – daily cuticle oil, including under the free edge
Avoid using nails as tools – even strong BIAB can lift or chip under pressure
Takeaway: BIAB Can Be Nail-Friendly
BIAB nails are designed to protect and support natural nails, not harm them. The main factor that determines whether your nails stay healthy is technique and maintenance, not the product itself.
If you are searching BIAB nails near me, BIAB Melbourne, or Hawthorn nail salon, choosing a salon like Apricot Nails BIAB Hawthorn ensures your nails are strong, glossy, and healthy, without compromise.
TL;DR Takeaways
BIAB nails are generally safe for natural nails
Proper application, infills, and removal are essential
BIAB strengthens nails, supports growth, and reduces breakage
Poor technique or neglect is the real cause of damage, not BIAB itself
BIAB nails do not inherently damage natural nails when applied and removed correctly. They can actually strengthen and protect nails, support growth, and reduce breakage compared to acrylics or SNS. Proper prep, infills, and gentle maintenance are key to a healthy, long-lasting manicure.