RIAB, SIAB, FIAB, BUILDER, BUILDER GEL, FIBER…
By now there has been so much on the market that you may not be able to see the forest for the trees…Which Gel is best to use and most importantly, when
To begin with, these gels differ mainly in flexibility. We will briefly list them below, from hard to flexible:
- Fiber (jar)
- Builder Gel (Jar) and Builder (Bottle)
- FIAB (bottle)
- Structure Gel
- Rubber Base
We explained the difference between Rubber Base and Structure gel in a previous blog. In this article, we will go into more detail about the FIAB, Builder and Fiber Gel.
FIAB (Fiber In A Bottle) is a flexible gel enriched with synthetic fibers making it stronger and more durable than Rubber Base and Structure Gel. It has a low viscosity for perfect leveling and is ideal as an overlay for natural nails. Provided you master the right technique, there is no need to file the application. Fiber in a bottle can be filed off, but is also repellent. FIAB 01 can be used as a base, but for best adhesion we recommend our Rubber Base Clear.
Fiber Gel is a true builder gel with synthetic fibers that cause the gel to wear less than regular builder gels. It offers a hardness close to acrylic, making it great for extensions and corrections. Fiber Gel has a slightly higher viscosity, which does still level and requires minimal filing. Soaking is not possible with Fiber Gel.
When to choose FIAB and when to choose Fiber Gel?
It is possible to perform a Natural Nail Treatment with both products. Which product you choose depends on the condition of the natural nail, its shape and the client’s daily actions.
FIAB is ideal for clients with thin, flexible nails that need extra reinforcement and for whom products such as Rubber Base or Structure Gel are not enough. It is perfect for short lengths and provides a natural look. FIAB is used as an overlay for the natural nail and can be finished with gel polish and Next Top Gel or Brilliant Top Gel. FIAB is not suitable for damaged nails.
Fiber Gel on the other hand, is a very versatile product. It is a true builder gel. You can use it to strengthen as an overlay, lengthen and shape corrections. Fiber Gel is also great for clients who work with their hands a lot on a daily basis or like to have a tight square, because it wears off less quickly and maintains its shape nicely.
And then we came up with Builder….
In addition to RIAB, SIAB and FIAB, Builder is absolutely not to be missed! Our Builder In A Bottle is the unique variation of traditional builder gels, enriched with a significant dose of power and strength that takes your salon work to the next level!
A unique product in a bottle is how we can best describe the Builder.
The Builder is similar to traditional builder gel, combined with the ease of use of a flexible gel. Thanks to its low viscosity, you can set beautiful, sleek nails in no time. The gel lays itself and minimal filing work is required to achieve the correct architecture, provided of course you have mastered the correct technique once. This Builder in a bottle is tremendously firm on the natural nail, but can also be used for short extensions. This makes this gel extremely suitable for the Natural Nail Treatment.
Currently available in 20 natural shades, but will expand soon. HEMA and TPO free.
Builder Gel
The traditional hard gel, is essential for strengthening and lengthening nails. With a medium to high viscosity, this gel is less self-leveling than the Builder in a bottle, but still lays itself quickly and easily. A good base is crucial; Rubberbase Clear or a Superbond Base are ideal for this purpose. Currently available in 12 shades, which will quickly expand themselves. So perfect for a Natural Nail Treatment, but of course a Gel Polish or nail art can also be applied over it for a more striking look.
When do you choose Builder (bottle or jar)?
For both flexible, and firm nails, you can use this Builder. Builder is firmer than Rubberbase, Structure gel and FIAB. So if you like to work from a bottle or with a liquid gel, but need a firm product, choose Builder. If you prefer to work from a jar, then use Builder Gel. Both are equally firm, only the viscosity differs.