Latest news with #BuilderInABottle
Refinery29
2 days ago
- Health
- Refinery29
'Nail Greenies' Are The BIAB Side Effect No One Warned Me About
I love to keep my nails looking pristine. For the past few years, I've been obsessed with gel manicures, often choosing a sparkly pink or a standout blue to complement my signature navy mascara. But I discovered that gel chipped easily, and after a removal appointment left my natural nails sore and damaged, I made a vow to restore them to health. One nail treatment that had helped me in the past was BIAB, aka Builder In A Bottle, and with my trip to New York for my 30th birthday in March, it felt like the perfect occasion to book in. Fast forward to July, and I asked my nail tech about a fresh set of BIAB for my upcoming holiday. She assured me that my nails were fine for one more infill — having the gap between your cuticle and the builder gel filled in. Imagine my surprise, then, while at Disneyland Paris — supposedly the happiest place on Earth — when I noticed my BIAB lifting on one thumb, revealing a patch of swamp-green discolouration. Not exactly on-brand. Fortunately, my mind didn't jump to the idea that I was turning into an alien. Instead, I realised that my nail had started lifting, and I suspected I was dealing with ' nail greenies '. What exactly is nail greenies or Pseudomonas? Dr Alexis Granite, a consultant dermatologist and founder of skincare brand Joonbyrd, explains that nail greenies are professionally known as Pseudomonas aeruginosa: 'This is an infection of a nail, which is caused by the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria,' she tells me. It's called 'greenies' because it often appears blue-green, dark green or sometimes even a black colour, says Dr Granite. Several things can cause nail greenies, says Dr Granite. One common reason? 'Some kind of nail trauma, commonly the nail separating from the nail bed due to acrylic nails or other types of nail extensions,' she explains. Dr Granite notes that greenies is also common in people who have prolonged exposure to moisture, whether from excessive hand washing or working in damp conditions: 'Pre-existing nail conditions, a weakened immune system and poor nail hygiene can also contribute to the bacterial infection,' she says. In my case, the infection was due to my BIAB lifting and moisture becoming trapped underneath. Celebrity manicurist Michelle Humphrey adds that nail greenies is often mistaken for a fungus: 'Nail fungus is not typically green and has different attributes such as thickened, yellowish, brittle nail plates,' she says. Much like fungus, though, nail greenies can multiply and spread. Dr Granite says that if left untreated, you might notice a handful of symptoms: 'You can experience green and yellowish discharge, a swollen nail and tenderness, pain and discomfort, and over time, an infection in the skin,' not just the nailbed. How do you get rid of nail greenies? And is it safe to keep getting BIAB? If you suspect you have nail greenies, celebrity manicurist Roxanne Campbell says it's important to keep the affected nails dry and free from products to allow them to 'air out' and eventually grow out naturally. This means gently removing any BIAB or other nail enhancements like soft and hard gels or acrylic. Keeping nails as bare as possible is key, confirms Humphrey, who explains that oxygen helps to kill the bacteria. In most cases, using 'breathable' nail polishes, which are water-permeable, is fine. The time it takes for green discolouration to grow out on nails depends on where it's located. If it is situated lower down on the nail, it will likely take longer to grow out. In my case, the green discolouration affected two fingers and one thumb. Since it wasn't too low down, my nail has already grown out most of the green hue, leaving just a small patch behind. It's been just under a month since I had my BIAB removed, so my nails are growing out quickly. If you've kept your nails bare, clean and dry, but the greenies persist, Dr Granite suggests contacting your GP for a nail treatment. 'If there's any question that [the nail is] not responding, topical antibiotic creams, and in more severe cases, an oral antibiotic might be recommended,' she says. The latter can only be prescribed by a medical professional, so if you're concerned, it's always best to seek expert advice on the next steps. @aliciacadotte This is why you DONT wait 5 weeks for a nail fill and glue your lifted nails back down! Greenies (as seen on the thumb), are caused by moisture getting trapped under the artificial nail. Cracks (seen on middle finger) can also be a huge cause for greenies or nail damage on the enhancement and natural nail. Gluing down your nails in a pinch is okay once in a while but please for the sake of your well being, get your nails filled in a timely manner, and always have your nail tech fix your nails. #nailart #nails #nailtech ♬ original sound - aliciacadotte How do you prevent nail greenies? While the cause of nail greenies isn't always obvious, Humphrey says that red flags to look out for include lifting, any discolouration and pressure on the nail plate once the nail enhancement has grown out. 'If your nails start to look bulky or uneven, it could be time to take a break and refresh the nail set properly,' says Humphrey. Adding, 'Numerous infills without assessing the nail underneath can also be a cause for greenies, especially if you are wearing a coloured builder gel, as this disguises the nail plate.' Humphrey believes that proper prep can make all the difference: 'Your nail pro should be doing thorough cuticle work, removing surface oils and applying a clean, even base [before BIAB or gel],' she says. 'Over-buffing the natural nail should be avoided and there should be zero dust or oil on the nail before application.' During your manicure, also avoid things like rummaging in your bag, touching your phone, your face, your hair or eating, says Humphrey. 'All of these things can transfer oils, dirt, fluff and bacteria onto your nails after they've been prepped,' she says. 'So when your nail tech pleads with you to sit still, it's not just for vibes — it's for the longevity of your manicure.' Campbell says that once the infection has cleared and the nail plate looks clean and healthy, you can apply BIAB or other nail enhancements again. Humphrey also recommends choosing a properly qualified nail technician: 'Make sure the [nail station] is fully sanitised and that tools and implements are changed regularly,' she says. 'Nail files [should be thrown away] after use to avoid cross-contamination.' If you're having BIAB or gel removed, check that your nails look healthy before reapplication: 'When in doubt, keep your nails bare and wait a little longer,' says Humphrey. A good nail technician should always let you know when your nails need a break from gel or BIAB. How can you strengthen nails after greenies? If your nails are looking and feeling neglected, there's still time to revive them. Gaelle Lebrat Personnaz, founder and CEO of Manucurist, a nail brand that focuses on nail care and natural nail health, says that once the green discolouration has completely cleared and the nail is healthy again, you can start rebuilding its strength. 'After treating a greenie, nails are often left dry, brittle or weakened,' she says. Lebrat Personnaz recommends the brand's Nail Rescue Kit, £45, a perfect post-recovery routine. 'It includes the Huile Verte Cuticle Oil for deep daily nourishment, S.O.S Nail Strengthener to rebuild strength and resilience, and our S.O.S Nail Masque, an intensive treatment mask that deeply hydrates and repairs damaged nails.' Humphrey also recommends one of my go-to cuticle oils, Essie On a Roll Apricot Nail & Cuticle Oil, £14.99, which is deeply nourishing, great for on-the-go use and smells amazing. Besides topical treatments, Campbell suggests a diet rich in protein, biotin, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids to support healthier nails. Lastly, if the green discolouration hasn't grown out after a few weeks, or if you notice different side effects, it's always best to reach out to a medical professional for further advice.
Elle
09-07-2025
- Health
- Elle
From French Tips To Butter Yellow, The Best BIAB Pedicures To See You Through A Heatwave
Builder In A Bottle, also known as BIAB, is an increasingly popular manicure option for those who are looking to strengthen and grow their natural nails. But BIAB isn't exclusively designed for the hands. BIAB pedicures are proving to be useful for anyone whose nails require extra care, strength and protection. In the warmer months, when our toes are even more exposed to the elements – think sand, sea, and being out and about in summer sandals – BIAB pedicures promise longevity and high-performance wear. 'While we recommend applying it in a thin layer (more like a rubber base), BIAB™ still delivers its key benefit: flexible strength,' says Giorgia Cappella, head of education and spa at The GelBottle Inc. Essentially, BIAB works by 'flexing' with the natural nail. 'This helps to prevent breakages and protect the nail from damage - ideal for weaker or damaged toenails that need a little extra support,' adds Cappella. According to Cappella, those with active lifestyles or athletes prone to toe trauma will benefit from the strengthening effects of a BIAB pedicure. Plus, if you are loyal to a BIAB manicure, you can get matching shades for your toes. 'Clients are often drawn to the beautiful, wearable shades and the added durability, which makes it perfect for holidays or long-lasting pedis,' Cappella tells ELLE. Similar to BIAB manicures, they can last up to 4 weeks depending on the individual's lifestyle. But do make sure to monitor your toenail's growth. 'If toenails get too long, they can press into shoes and cause damage to the nail matrix,' cautions Cappella. While BIAB is durable, it's always important to regularly check on your nails and maintain it regularly to ensure nail health. When used correctly, there are no major downsides to BIAB, as long as the product isn't over-applied or built too thick, as toenails are generally stronger than the nails on your hands. As with manicures, sunny designs and pastel tones are set to take over our toes. Cappella is a big fan of soft baby blues, lilacs, yellows and minty greens from The Gel Bottle's Pastel BIAB collection. 'These dreamy shades pair perfectly with sandals and sunshine, and are a gorgeous way to add colour without overpowering your look.' A powdery pink base makes for a subtle take on the French pedicure. Take a cue from TikTok's 'princess nails' trend and try an extremely pretty, sheer pink pedicure with an immaculate finish. Pale lemon is still very much on the radar for summer, delivering a hint of sunshine without overpowering the rest of your look. ELLE Collective is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE. Medina Azaldin is the beauty editor of ELLE and Harper's Bazaar UK, working across print and digital features. She has more than seven years journalism experience and has previously written for Red and Good Hoousekeeping. When she's not demystifying the latest skincare ingredient, sniffing out the next big perfume trend or uncovering the science behind wellness practices, you'll most likely find her in Hatchards Piccadilly or watching a crime series with her cats. Oh, and she's a competitive cheerleader, too.
