Crown Beauty guide
BIAB vs gel nails: which should you choose?
- BIAB and gel polish both give glossy, chip-free colour
- BIAB is a thicker builder gel that makes nails stronger
- Gel polish is a thin layer of colour
- Both are done on your natural nails, no extensions needed
Side by side
Prices and times at Crown Beauty Eltham.
| BIAB | Gel polish | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Strong builder gel over your own nails | Thin layer of gel colour |
| Best for | Weak, bendy or peeling nails, or growing them out | Healthy nails that just need colour |
| Price | From £30 on natural nails | Shellac manicure from £25, gel polish only from £10 |
| Time | About 1 hr | 10 mins to 1 hr |
| Lasts | Usually around 3 to 4 weeks | Depends on your nails, ask us |
| Nail art | Yes, any design on top | Yes, any design on top |
Which one is right for me?
Choose BIAB if
- Your nails break or peel easily
- You want to grow your natural nails longer
- You want a bit more strength without extensions
Choose gel polish if
- Your nails are already strong
- You just want a quick colour
- You like changing your colour often
Still not sure? Message us a photo and we'll help you choose.
Our work
Real clients, done in our Eltham salon.
Questions people ask
What does BIAB stand for?
- Builder in a bottle
- A strong gel brushed over your natural nails
Is BIAB the same as shellac?
- No, shellac is a type of gel polish
- BIAB is thicker and adds strength
Can I switch from gel polish to BIAB?
- Yes, we can take off your gel and put BIAB on in the same visit
- Just tell us when you book
How do I take BIAB or gel off?
- Pop in and let us remove it
- Please don't peel it off, it can damage your nails
How much is BIAB in Eltham?
- At Crown Beauty, BIAB on natural nails is from £30
- BIAB full set £35
Find us
257 Eltham High Street, London SE9 1TY
- Short walk from Eltham station and on local bus routes
- Street parking on Elderslie Road, Westmount Road and Glenesk Road, 2 minutes away
- Please check the signs for time limits and charges
| Monday to Friday | 10:00 to 19:00 |
| Saturday | 09:30 to 18:30 |
| Sunday | Closed |
Closed on bank holidays.