What to Expect at Your BIAB Nail
Appointment at apricot nails

If you’ve been scrolling nail inspo late at night or searching “BIAB nails near me”, “BIAB nails Hawthorn”, “Builder Gel Melbourne”, or “BIAB nails Melbourne” and landed here, welcome.

Trying a new nail salon can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve had a rough experience before or you’re taking nail health seriously for the first time.

So let me walk you through exactly what happens when you sit down at my desk at Apricot Nails, a boutique BIAB nail studio in Hawthorn, Melbourne.

Spoiler: there’s no judgment, no rushing, and no cookie-cutter nails.

Come As You Are

Bitten nails? No problem.
Damaged nails from shopping centre nail bars? I see it all the time.
Overgrown cuticles? That’s literally my job.

If you’re nervous about your first BIAB manicure, I’ll explain how Builder in a Bottle (BIAB) works, what to expect, and how to care for your nails afterward. You don’t need perfectly prepped hands or Instagram-ready nails to book in. In fact, many of my clients come to me because their nails are in recovery mode.

Apricot Nails is a calm, cosy, appointment-only studio focused on damage-free manicures, natural nail growth, and long-lasting results. If your nails feel tired, weak, or high-maintenance, you’re exactly where you should be.

Important: If you currently have nail enhancements from another salon, I ask that they’re removed before your appointment. This allows me to assess your natural nails properly and give them the best care from day one.

The Welcome Chat
(AKA the Most Important Part)

Every appointment begins with a consultation. I’ll ask about:

• Your nail goals

• Your lifestyle

• Any past damage, biting, splitting, or peeling

• Whether you want low-maintenance nails or something more creative

This is where I tailor your BIAB nails to you. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all manicures. Your nail type, growth pattern, and daily habits all matter — and they directly affect how your nails should be shaped, structured, and maintained.

The Apricot Nails Approach

I take a slow, thoughtful, nail-health-first approach. My goal is not just to make your nails look good today, but to help them grow stronger over time.

Here’s what your appointment typically includes:

• Gentle, thorough prep with no over-filing

• Detailed Russian manicure–style cuticle work that’s clean, precise, and never harsh

• BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) or soft builder gel for strength and flexibility

• Custom shaping based on your nail type and lifestyle

• High-quality Japanese and Korean gel polishes for colour, durability, and shine

• Optional gel extensions designed to protect your natural nails

• Personalised nail art that reflects your style

Everything I use is chosen for nail health, longevity, and comfort. If a product or technique isn’t right for your nails, I won’t use it — simple as that.

What I Don’t Do

I don’t rush.
I don’t judge.
I don’t damage natural nails.

I also don’t follow trends just because they’re popular. If something is likely to weaken your nails or undo your progress, I’ll gently steer you toward a better option. My focus is always on healthy BIAB nails, not quick fixes.

Aftercare & Ongoing Support

Once your set is finished, I’ll talk you through how to care for your nails at home. That might include:

• Cuticle oil recommendations

• How often to rebook BIAB infills

• What to expect as your nails grow

• Tips to prevent lifting or breakage

I want your BIAB manicure to last as long as possible and support your nail goals between appointments. And if you’re ever unsure about something, you’re always welcome to ask — education is part of the experience here.

What You’ll Leave With

Nails that feel like yours — just stronger, glossier, and more resilient.
A clean, long-lasting finish that doesn’t chip after two days.
A better understanding of how to care for your natural nails, not just cover them up.

And hopefully, a new go-to nail salon that feels like your nail safe space.

Ready to Book Your BIAB Nails in Hawthorn?

If you’ve been wondering where to start with BIAB nails, builder gel, or Japanese gel manicures, I hope this gave you a clearer picture of what makes Apricot Nails different.

📍 Apricot Nails – Hawthorn, Melbourne (near Glenferrie Station)
If you’ve been searching “BIAB nails near me”, book your appointment by filling out the Client Intake Form, and let’s build nails you’re obsessed with — low-maintenance, long-lasting, and genuinely healthy.