Guide to Applying BIB – Builder in Bottle by Purple Professional

Builder in Bottle — or BIB — is one of Purple Professional’s most versatile strengthening systems. It combines the flexibility and durability of a builder gel with the convenience of a bottle brush application, making it ideal for overlays, nail strengthening and creating a natural apex with minimal filing.

BIB is perfect for:

Weak, thin or peeling nails

Nail strengthening programmes

Natural-looking overlays

Short to medium extensions

Smooth and flexible structure

When applied correctly, BIB provides a natural, strong and long-lasting result — without bulk.

 

✨ Step 1 — Prepare the Natural Nail

Proper nail preparation is essential for adhesion and durability.

Sanitize hands

Push back the cuticle

Remove cuticle residue from the nail plate

Lightly remove natural shine using a 180/180 grit file

Remove dust with a soft brush

Apply Nail Prep to dehydrate and clean the nail

Apply the correct primer:

After prep, the nail should look matte, clean and free of residue.

 

✨ Step 2 — Apply the Slip Layer

A slip layer helps the builder gel self-level and bond evenly.

Apply a very thin layer of BIB

Do NOT cure yet

Avoid touching cuticles or skin

This step acts as the “base” for structure.

✨ Step 3 — Build the Structure (Apex)

Now apply a slightly larger bead of BIB and gently float it over the slip layer.

Professional tips:

Work slowly — let the product self-level

Use a fine detail brush if needed for precision

Hold the finger upside-down for 5–10 seconds to form the apex

Once you are happy with the structure, cure for 60 seconds (LED).

✨ Step 4 — Refine the Surface (Optional)

If your application is clean and smooth, filing may not be necessary.

If refinement is needed:

Lightly buff

Ensure you do not remove the apex

Remove dust before continuing

BIB should feel strong but flexible — never thick.

✨ Step 5 — Apply Colour or Finish

Choose how you want to finish the nail:

👉 If applying gel polish over BIB:

Apply thin coats

Cure each layer

Seal the free edge

👉 If keeping BIB natural:

Apply Top Coat 2Way No Wipe for a high-shine natural look
OR

Apply Velvet Top Coat for a soft, matte finish

Cure completely.

✨ Step 6 — Finishing Care

After application:

Clean inhibition layer (only if using a top coat with dispersion)

Apply cuticle oil to hydrate and finish the service

The result:
💜 Beautifully structured nails
💜 Strong but natural
💜 Smooth, flexible and long-lasting

🧪 Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Applying thick layers too quickly
🚫 Touching cuticles or skin
🚫 Skipping primer
🚫 Not building an apex on longer nails
🚫 Under-curing

Correct technique = retention.

 

 

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