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BIAB for Beginners: What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Written by Juli, Founder of Juli Lash Studio, Reading

✨ Introduction

Never had BIAB nails before? You’re in the right place.
At Juli Lash Studio in Reading, we welcome first-time BIAB clients every day — and we know how important it is to feel informed and confident about what to expect.

This guide walks you through your first BIAB appointment: from what happens during the treatment to how to care for your nails afterwards.

🧽 Step 1: Nail Prep – The Most Important Bit

Before any gel touches your nails, we start with a full nail prep routine:

  • Gentle cuticle push-back and tidy

  • Light buffing of the nail surface

  • Cleanse and dehydrate the nail plate

  • Shape to your desired length and style

💡 Proper prep is key to avoiding lifting and making your BIAB last longer.

🏗️ Step 2: BIAB Application

Now comes the star of the show — Builder in a Bottle!

We apply:

  1. A base layer

  2. A soft-building layer for structure and strength

  3. A top coat for shine or colour depending on your choice

BIAB can be worn clear, nude, or with gel colour over it.

🖌️ Optional: Colour, Design, or French Tip

Want something more than a natural look?

You can add:

  • A gel colour over your BIAB base

  • French tip

  • Minimalist designs like micro-dots or glitter accents

We’ll always advise on what works best for your nail type and length.

⏳ How Long Does It Take?

A first-time BIAB appointment usually takes around 60–75 minutes, depending on your design choice and current nail condition.

Future appointments may be faster, especially if you stick to a similar style.

🧴 Aftercare Advice (We Send You Home with Tips!)

Before you leave, we’ll talk you through:

  • How to protect your BIAB nails

  • When to come back for removal or a fresh set

  • Why we don’t infill BIAB (read more here)

We prioritise nail health and comfort, not just looks.

💖 Why New Clients Love BIAB

First-time clients are often surprised how:

  • Natural BIAB feels

  • Long it lasts (2–4 weeks!)

  • It helps grow and strengthen their real nails

  • It doesn’t feel thick or damaging

🎯 BIAB is ideal for nail rehab, switching from acrylics, or starting fresh after years of damage.

📍 Book Your First BIAB Set at Juli Lash Studio

We’re located in central Reading and specialise in helping new clients discover healthy, beautiful nails.

👉 Book your BIAB appointment now

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