COVERSTORY

Strength in every Stroke

A decade after BIAB™’s debut, The GelBottle Inc has unveiled its next iteration: Hard BIAB™, a new generation in strength & structure that is showcased on this issue’s cover

ALEX FOX REPORTS

since its inception in 2015, The GelBottle Inc’s BIAB™ – aka Builder In A Bottle™ – has gained huge traction and become a household name in the nail industry. Introduced by the brand as a thick, strengthening gel formula applied like gel polish, yet strong enough to build, shape and reinforce natural nails, businesses across the globe have embraced BIAB™’s properties.

Efficient, versatile and profitable, BIAB™ offers ease of use, is suited to most nail types and boasts a huge shade selection. With long-lasting wear, soak-off removal and the ability to build structure, the product creates a durable, flexible and protective overlay with a stunning finish.

Daisy Kalnina

Listening to the needs of the nail public, TGB has further developed the product and introduces Hard BIAB™ in 12 delicate hues: two of which feature on the cover of this month’s Scratch. “Hard BIAB™ is the next generation of the Builder in a Bottle™ family. Unlike soak-off BIAB™ formulas, Hard BIAB™ is a file-off system that delivers superior strength with slightly less flexibility,” cites The GelBottle Inc CEO & founder, Daisy Kalnina. “It’s specifically engineered for clients who seek to grow long natural nails, yet need extra structural support and reinforcement. Think of it as a formula between soak-off BIAB™ and traditional hard gel, giving techs a bottle-based, natural nail-focused solution that bridges the gap.”

Amber Herbert (@amberjhnails) created this look using Hard BIAB™ in Skye.

The GelBottle Inc recognised that BIAB™-loving clients were achieving beautiful natural nail growth, but once their nails reached a certain length, they needed more support than soak-off formulas could provide. One solution would have been to move clients to the hard gel system, however, this is typically presented in pots and designed for extensions, rather than natural nail overlays or short enhancements. Instead, TGB formulated a product with the strength of hard gel in its signature easy-to-use bottle. This delivers a great middle ground: a formula that is stronger than soak-off BIAB™, yet more refined and focused on the natural nail than traditional hard gel systems.

Science spotlight

Hard BIAB™ is a carefully calibrated balance of properties. Its file-off formula delivers enhanced structural integrity and break resistance, while maintaining flexibility to move with the nail plate. This is crucial for preventing lifting and ensuring comfortable wear. Adhesion has also been optimised for longer-lasting results, which is beneficial for clients who traditionally struggle with retention. It’s this elevated strength without compromising wearability that makes Hard BIAB™ unique.

“Hard BIAB™ truly shines with challenging nail types,” reveals Daisy. “For clients with oily nail plates, naturally weak nails or those who are heavy-handed, Hard BIAB™ provides noticeably improved retention and durability compared to soak-off formulas. The increased resistance means clients can confidently maintain longer natural lengths without the anxiety of breakage. In real-world wear testing, we’ve seen exceptional longevity – especially when paired with TGB Rubber Base for added flexibility and adhesion. Hard BIAB™ is a solution for clients who feel that they can’t wear BIAB™ due to lifestyle or nail challenges.”

‘‘Think of it as a formula between soak-off BIAB™ and traditional hard gel. ‘‘

The GelBottle Inc’s BIAB™ range now features three formulas, each serving different client needs, lifestyles and nail types. Original BIAB™ remains TGB’s most popular builder gel product. The soak-off formula balances strength and flexibility for everyday natural nail enhancements. All-In-One BIAB™ is also soak-off, yet features a more fluid consistency, making it ideal for clients with excellent natural retention and techs who prefer a self-levelling application style. Completing the line-up is Hard BIAB™, TGB’s file-off solution for clients growing longer natural nails and those struggling with retention.

Nail service engineering

Hard BIAB™ offers nail techs menu flexibility. As Daisy cites: “When using it as a stronger alternative to Original BIAB™, there’s no need to adjust pricing. However, Hard BIAB™ also opens an exciting revenue opportunity: natural nail extensions. Owing to the strength and structure it offers, techs can create beautiful extensions with Hard BIAB™ and position this as a premium service. This appeals to a growing client segment that seeks length and durability, but prefers a more natural aesthetic and approach than traditional extension systems. It’s the perfect upsell for BIAB™ devotees ready for their next chapter.

“With the industry shifting towards a focus on natural nail health and growth over recent years, this launch reflects TGB’s commitment to supporting that evolution: meeting clients where they are in their nail journeys and giving techs the tools to say ‘yes’ to more nail needs, without compromising the natural nail,” Daisy continues. “We see the future of natural nail enhancement becoming increasingly sophisticated and personalised. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, techs will have nuanced options that address each client’s nail type, lifestyle demands and aesthetic preferences.

“Creating BIAB™ a decade ago was a defining moment, and I’m incredibly proud to launch Hard BIAB™: a true evolution of our original innovation. It’s a testament to our commitment to pushing boundaries and empowering nail techs with the tools they need to thrive. Leading this next chapter 10 years after launching The GelBottle Inc is a full circle moment.”