Question

Hiya,
I have a few questions about gel nails and BIAB.
Will the new gel changes affect BIAB too? Is the price changing for gel polish?
When you get BIAB with a pattern, can you still get infills?
As you need infills for BIAB, do you have to choose one colour or pattern when you have it put on and then just keep getting that replaced when you get infills, or do you get the colour changed each time?

Thank you!
Nicola 

Charlotte’s Reply

Hi Nicola 
Thank you so much for your questions, they are brilliant. I'll take it one by one.

✨ Will the new gel changes affect BIAB?
No worries here, the BIAB we use at Charisma is already HEMA-free (including our ready-to-wear tips formula). Beth made the switch last year to keep your natural nails as healthy as possible, especially since BIAB stays on the nail much longer than standard gel polish.  You will also be pleased to hear that the price is staying the same for the remainder of 2025. 

✨ Can you get infills with BIAB, even if you have a pattern?
Yes! BIAB is designed to be infilled, usually up to 3 times before we fully remove it to check on the natural nail health.

✨ Do you have to stick with the same colour/pattern?
Not at all, you’ve got freedom to change it up! Here’s how it works:

• Colour finish BIAB – Beth applies a clear builder and then any gel polish colour you like on top. At your infill, that gel colour is removed and replaced with a new one, so you can switch shades every visit.
• Design/natural finish BIAB – Some clients prefer a soft pink or nude-toned builder as their base (perfect for French tips or small designs). This builder colour is kept during infills, but you can still add a gel colour or new design on top each time.

So whether you love to change your colour every appointment or prefer a consistent base with subtle designs, BIAB gives you the best of both worlds.
Hope that answers your questions lovely, do let me know if I can help you further.

Have a lovely day
Charlotte 

BIAB vs Gel Polish: What You Need to Know

With the recent buzz around changes to gel polish formulas, many clients have been asking us:

“Will these changes affect BIAB too? Can I still have nail art and infills with BIAB? What’s the difference between BIAB and regular gel polish?”

Let’s break it all down so you can make the best choice for your nails.

💅 What is BIAB?

BIAB stands for Builder in a Bottle. It’s a strengthening gel product that’s applied like polish but performs like a builder gel — offering structure, durability, and long-lasting results.

BIAB is perfect for:

• Strengthening natural nails
• Creating a smooth, even base
• Growing your nails longer
• Supporting intricate nail art
• Clients who are prone to breakage or nail peeling

✨ Will the new gel changes affect BIAB?

Not at Charisma!

We’ve already got you covered. Our BIAB range — including our ready-to-wear gel tips — is completely HEMA-free, meaning it already meets the latest guidelines and safety updates.

Beth, our nail artist, made the switch to HEMA-free builder gels last year to protect your natural nails and maintain long-term nail health. So nothing is changing there — and you’ll be pleased to hear the price is staying the same for the rest of 2025.

💡 BIAB vs Gel Polish: What’s the Difference?

🎨 Can I still get nail art or change colours with BIAB?

Absolutely! Here’s how it works:

1. Colour Finish BIAB

We use a clear BIAB base, then apply a gel polish colour on top. At your infill appointment, the colour is removed and you can choose a completely new one. 💅 So yes — you can change your colour every visit!

2. Design/Natural Finish BIAB

Some clients prefer a nude-toned BIAB base (think soft pink or peach). This natural builder is left in place during infills, and we add French tips or designs on top. You can still switch the artwork each time.

So whether you're a colour chameleon or love a consistent base with playful designs, BIAB gives you all the options.

⏳ What’s the maintenance like?

With BIAB, we typically recommend:

• Infills every 2–3 weeks
• Full removal after 3 infills to check your natural nail health
• Regular oiling to keep the nails flexible and hydrated

If you're used to standard gel polish, the longer wear and support BIAB offers might be exactly what your nails need.

📍 BIAB Nails Norwich – Why Choose Charisma?

At Charisma Norwich, our BIAB appointments are designed to suit your style and strengthen your nails — not just make them pretty for a week or two.

We take nail health seriously, using high-quality, HEMA-free formulas and ensuring you leave with strong, beautiful nails that last.

Whether you want a minimal nude look or Disney-inspired nail art (yes, that’s a real request we LOVE!), you’ll be in the best hands with Beth and our nail team.

💬 Final Thoughts from Charlotte

If you’re curious about switching to BIAB — or want to ask about what’s right for you — just pop us a message. We’ll guide you through the options and make sure you get the nails (and the appointment plan) that work best for your lifestyle.

BIAB is more than a trend. It’s a game-changer for strong, healthy, stunning nails — and we’re here for it!