New Gen BIAB™: What’s Changed & How to Apply BIAB™ | TGB Academy
Nov 6
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TGB Academy
Meet New Gen BIAB™. Discover what’s changed, from viscosity to self-levelling, plus read our complete application guide on how to apply BIAB™, including curing, infills and BIAB™ removal.
Meet New Gen BIAB™: What's Changed + How to Apply BIAB™
Say hello to New Gen BIAB™, the next generation of Original Builder In A Bottle™ for natural nail overlays.
We’ve built New Gen BIAB™ to be TPO-free while retaining HEMA, with a new formula designed to deliver the strength and durability expected from BIAB™ alongside an improved application experience.
If you've been using Original BIAB™ for years, there are a few differences you might notice when you first pick up the new formula.
So, let's get into it.
We’ve built New Gen BIAB™ to be TPO-free while retaining HEMA, with a new formula designed to deliver the strength and durability expected from BIAB™ alongside an improved application experience.
If you've been using Original BIAB™ for years, there are a few differences you might notice when you first pick up the new formula.
So, let's get into it.
New Gen BIAB™ at a Glance
• TPO-free
• HEMA-inclusive — it is NOT HEMA-free
• Slightly thinner in viscosity than previous Original BIAB™
• Improved in self-levelling
• Designed with a new C-curve brush
• Tackier inhibition layer
• Made for natural nail overlays
• Compatible with Rubber Base
• Compatible with TGB gel colours and top coats
• No new application process
• Always cure your base layer
• Made for natural nail overlays
New Gen BIAB™ is not compatible with Bond Base or 2-In-1 Base and should not be used underneath DesignEx Pro™, ProForm™ or GelPot.
• HEMA-inclusive — it is NOT HEMA-free
• Slightly thinner in viscosity than previous Original BIAB™
• Improved in self-levelling
• Designed with a new C-curve brush
• Tackier inhibition layer
• Made for natural nail overlays
• Compatible with Rubber Base
• Compatible with TGB gel colours and top coats
• No new application process
• Always cure your base layer
• Made for natural nail overlays
New Gen BIAB™ is not compatible with Bond Base or 2-In-1 Base and should not be used underneath DesignEx Pro™, ProForm™ or GelPot.
What's the Difference Between New Gen BIAB™ and Original BIAB™?
1. A Slightly Thinner Viscosity
One of the first things experienced BIAB™ techs may notice is that New Gen BIAB™ feels slightly thinner. This means the product may move more quickly across the nail, allowing it to settle into place efficiently.
Don't mistake this difference for an issue with the product — it's an intentional characteristic of the new formula.
2. Improved self-levelling
We've improved the self-levelling properties of New Gen BIAB™ to help create a smooth, beautifully even surface.
Give the product time to do the work for you. Avoid over-manipulating it and allow it to settle before curing.
3. Precision C-curve brush
New formula, new brush.
You may have already experienced our new C-curve brush in some of our recent innovations, including our TPO & HEMA-free Fibre BIAB™. Designed to and self-levelling properties of New Gen BIAB™, the new brush helps you achieve smooth, controlled application.
4. A tackier inhibition layer
You may notice that New Gen BIAB™ feels tackier on the surface after curing than previous Original BIAB™.
Don't panic.
New Gen BIAB™ naturally has a tackier inhibition layer. When the correct application thickness, compatible TGB lamp and recommended curing protocol have been used, this tackiness does not, on its own, indicate under-curing.
If you're refining the nail, remove the inhibition layer before refining.
One of the first things experienced BIAB™ techs may notice is that New Gen BIAB™ feels slightly thinner. This means the product may move more quickly across the nail, allowing it to settle into place efficiently.
Don't mistake this difference for an issue with the product — it's an intentional characteristic of the new formula.
2. Improved self-levelling
We've improved the self-levelling properties of New Gen BIAB™ to help create a smooth, beautifully even surface.
Give the product time to do the work for you. Avoid over-manipulating it and allow it to settle before curing.
3. Precision C-curve brush
New formula, new brush.
You may have already experienced our new C-curve brush in some of our recent innovations, including our TPO & HEMA-free Fibre BIAB™. Designed to and self-levelling properties of New Gen BIAB™, the new brush helps you achieve smooth, controlled application.
4. A tackier inhibition layer
You may notice that New Gen BIAB™ feels tackier on the surface after curing than previous Original BIAB™.
Don't panic.
New Gen BIAB™ naturally has a tackier inhibition layer. When the correct application thickness, compatible TGB lamp and recommended curing protocol have been used, this tackiness does not, on its own, indicate under-curing.
If you're refining the nail, remove the inhibition layer before refining.
How to Apply BIAB™: Our New Gen Formula
The recommended process for how to apply builder gel remains the same, but because New Gen BIAB™ the new formula, there are a few things to be aware of as you get to know our next generation BIAB™.
Step 1: Nail Prep
• Sanitise your and your customer’s hands.
• Use a cuticle pusher — like ProPrep from our TGB Tools Range — to push back the cuticles before trimming away excess with nippers. We recommend the ProNip Cuticle Nippers for this.
• File nails into the desired shape using a TGB 220/240 File.
• Gently buff nails using a TGB 100/180 Buffer to remove any shine.
• Dehydrate and cleanse the nail plate using 100% pure acetone.
Correct preparation is essential for achieving the best possible retention, so always ensure the nail plate is thoroughly prepped and free from non-living tissue, oils and contaminants before application.
• Use a cuticle pusher — like ProPrep from our TGB Tools Range — to push back the cuticles before trimming away excess with nippers. We recommend the ProNip Cuticle Nippers for this.
• File nails into the desired shape using a TGB 220/240 File.
• Gently buff nails using a TGB 100/180 Buffer to remove any shine.
• Dehydrate and cleanse the nail plate using 100% pure acetone.
Correct preparation is essential for achieving the best possible retention, so always ensure the nail plate is thoroughly prepped and free from non-living tissue, oils and contaminants before application.
Step 2: First Layer
• Apply a thin layer of New Gen BIAB™ to the natural nail.
• Cure for 99 seconds on Low Heat Mode in the TGB Lamp.
• Cure for 99 seconds on Low Heat Mode in the TGB Lamp.
Step 3: Second Layer
• Build one nail at a time.
• Apply a medium bead of New Gen BIAB™, spreading from side to side and dragging away from the cuticle area.
• Avoid thick build-up around the free edge.
• Turn the hand over to help create the apex and allow the product to self-level.
• Cure for 99 seconds on Low Heat Mode in the TGB Lamp.
NB: Getting to know the new viscosity
If you're an experienced Original BIAB™ user, you may notice that New Gen BIAB™ moves more quickly than you're used to.
This is completely normal. The new formula has been developed with improved self-levelling properties to help achieve a smooth, even finish.
Work one nail at a time, use controlled amounts of product and allow the formula to self-level rather than overworking it.
• Apply a medium bead of New Gen BIAB™, spreading from side to side and dragging away from the cuticle area.
• Avoid thick build-up around the free edge.
• Turn the hand over to help create the apex and allow the product to self-level.
• Cure for 99 seconds on Low Heat Mode in the TGB Lamp.
NB: Getting to know the new viscosity
If you're an experienced Original BIAB™ user, you may notice that New Gen BIAB™ moves more quickly than you're used to.
This is completely normal. The new formula has been developed with improved self-levelling properties to help achieve a smooth, even finish.
Work one nail at a time, use controlled amounts of product and allow the formula to self-level rather than overworking it.
Step 4: Third Layer
- If additional structure is required, apply a second medium bead of New Gen BIAB™.
- Build one nail at a time, spreading from side to side and dragging away from the cuticle area.
- Avoid thick build-up around the free edge.
- Turn the hand over to help create the apex and allow the product to self-level.
- Cure for 99 seconds on Low Heat Mode in the TGB Lamp.
Not every nail will require an additional layer. Always assess the structure, length and individual needs of the natural nail.
Step 5: Refine
- Remove the tacky layer with acetone or isopropyl alcohol.
- Refine the nail using a TGB 120/180 File.
- Buff into shape using a TGB 100/180 Buffer, concentrating on reducing the product around the cuticle area and free edge where required.
- Remove any dust with the Dusting Brush and wipe with isopropyl alcohol.
Please note: You may notice that the inhibition layer with New Gen BIAB™ feels tackier than with the previous Original BIAB™ formula. This is completely normal and is a characteristic of the new formulation.
A tackier inhibition layer does not, on its own, indicate under-curing when the correct application and curing protocol has been followed.
Always remove the inhibition layer before refining.
Step 6: Top Coat Layer
- If nails are to be finished with TGB Gel Colour, follow the TGB Gel Polish Application steps. Find the guide here.
- Apply your chosen TGB Top Coat.
- Cure using the TGB Lamp for 60 seconds.
- Apply a small amount of Cuticle Essence to each cuticle, avoiding contact with the nail to minimise dulling of the top coat.
And you're done — a beautifully structured New Gen BIAB™ overlay.
NB: New Gen BIAB™ works beautifully with Rubber Top Coat 2.0.
Can You Use a Slip Layer with New Gen BIAB™?
Our recommended BIAB™ application method has always been to fully cure your base layer before building your overlay.
We know some nail techs choose to work over an uncured slip layer, but this isn't our recommended application method.
With New Gen BIAB™, this is particularly important. The slightly thinner viscosity and improved self-levelling properties mean that applying your builder layer over an uncured slip layer can increase product movement and the risk of flooding into the surrounding skin.
For maximum control, fully cure your base layer before building your overlay.
We know some nail techs choose to work over an uncured slip layer, but this isn't our recommended application method.
With New Gen BIAB™, this is particularly important. The slightly thinner viscosity and improved self-levelling properties mean that applying your builder layer over an uncured slip layer can increase product movement and the risk of flooding into the surrounding skin.
For maximum control, fully cure your base layer before building your overlay.
Does New Gen BIAB™ Need a Base Coat?
No.
New Gen BIAB™ can be applied following the standard recommended BIAB™ system without adding a separate base coat for every client.
However, every client's nails are different.
For certain nail types, pairing New Gen BIAB™ with a compatible base coat can help improve longevity and retention.
New Gen BIAB™ can be applied following the standard recommended BIAB™ system without adding a separate base coat for every client.
However, every client's nails are different.
For certain nail types, pairing New Gen BIAB™ with a compatible base coat can help improve longevity and retention.
What Base Coats Can I Use with New Gen BIAB™?
New Gen BIAB™ has a built-in base coat. We recommend using a compatible base coat for clients with weak or damaged natural nails, those who are prone to lifting or breakages, or clients with naturally oilier hair and skin, as these factors may impact product retention. New Gen BIAB™ is compatible with Rubber Base. Do not use with Bond Base or 2-In-1 Base.
Consider pairing with Rubber Base for clients with:
• Weak natural nails
• Damaged natural nails
• A history of lifting
• Nails prone to breakages
• Naturally oilier nail plates
• Oilier hair and skin
• Previous retention challenges
Always assess your client's individual nail type and service history to determine the most appropriate system.
Consider pairing with Rubber Base for clients with:
• Weak natural nails
• Damaged natural nails
• A history of lifting
• Nails prone to breakages
• Naturally oilier nail plates
• Oilier hair and skin
• Previous retention challenges
Always assess your client's individual nail type and service history to determine the most appropriate system.
Can You Infill New Gen BIAB™?
Yes.
New Gen BIAB™ can be maintained using the recommended BIAB™ infill process, provided the existing product is suitable to remain on the nail.
Always assess the existing enhancement and natural nail before beginning an infill and completely remove any lifting or compromised product.
New Gen BIAB™ can be maintained using the recommended BIAB™ infill process, provided the existing product is suitable to remain on the nail.
Always assess the existing enhancement and natural nail before beginning an infill and completely remove any lifting or compromised product.
How Do You Remove New Gen BIAB™?
The recommended BIAB™ removal process remains the same.
However, different BIAB™ formulations can look and feel slightly different as they break down.
New Gen BIAB™ may have a more crystalline appearance during soak-off and can require a slightly longer soak time initially as you adjust to the formula. This is normal.
Never force, peel or aggressively scrape product from the natural nail if it hasn't sufficiently broken down.
However, different BIAB™ formulations can look and feel slightly different as they break down.
New Gen BIAB™ may have a more crystalline appearance during soak-off and can require a slightly longer soak time initially as you adjust to the formula. This is normal.
Never force, peel or aggressively scrape product from the natural nail if it hasn't sufficiently broken down.
Your New Gen BIAB™ Checklist
Before your first New Gen BIAB™ service, remember:
TPO-free? Yes.
HEMA-free? No — New Gen BIAB™ CONTAINS HEMA.
New viscosity? Slightly thinner compared to OG BIAB™.
Improved self-levelling? Yes.
New brush? Yes — our C-curve brush.
Tackier inhibition layer? Yes — completely normal.
New application process? No.
Cure your base layer? Always.
Compatible with Rubber Base? Yes.
Compatible with Bond Base or 2-in-1 Base? No.
For extensions? No — natural nail overlays only.
New formula. Familiar BIAB™ performance. Once you’ve familiarised yourself with how New Gen moves, levels and applies, you're ready to create beautiful BIAB™ overlays.
Looking for step-by-step guides on how to work with New Gen BIAB™? Head to our Education Hub to find a range of video tutorials designed to help you feel confident in using our next generation builder gel.
Not yet trained in BIAB™ nails? Book onto our BIAB™ nail course and learn from the experts that invented the icon.
TPO-free? Yes.
HEMA-free? No — New Gen BIAB™ CONTAINS HEMA.
New viscosity? Slightly thinner compared to OG BIAB™.
Improved self-levelling? Yes.
New brush? Yes — our C-curve brush.
Tackier inhibition layer? Yes — completely normal.
New application process? No.
Cure your base layer? Always.
Compatible with Rubber Base? Yes.
Compatible with Bond Base or 2-in-1 Base? No.
For extensions? No — natural nail overlays only.
New formula. Familiar BIAB™ performance. Once you’ve familiarised yourself with how New Gen moves, levels and applies, you're ready to create beautiful BIAB™ overlays.
Looking for step-by-step guides on how to work with New Gen BIAB™? Head to our Education Hub to find a range of video tutorials designed to help you feel confident in using our next generation builder gel.
Not yet trained in BIAB™ nails? Book onto our BIAB™ nail course and learn from the experts that invented the icon.
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United Kingdom
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BN1 2RA
United Kingdom
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Education@thegelbottle.com
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