About & Editorial Standards (2026)

I am Sara Kim, a licensed nail technician with 8+ years behind the table. If you are new, start with the Builder Gel Nails guide to see how I explain technique, safety, and product choice. Everything on this site reflects real salon experience, not generic AI content.

Who I Am

• Licensed nail tech with eight years in salon and studio environments
• Specialize in builder gel, BIAB, and structured manicures
• Safety-first approach: clean prep, proper cures, and gentle removal

How I Test Products

• I apply each builder gel on real clients and practice tips before recommending.
• I track viscosity, self-level speed, brush feel, and cure times under a 48W LED.
• I note reactions on sensitive clients and prefer HEMA-free options when needed.
• I compare wear after 2 to 3 weeks, watching for lifting, cracking, or discoloration.

Editorial Principles

• Accuracy over hype: if a formula needs 120 seconds to cure, we say it.
• Safety first: prep, skin avoidance, and safe removal are always emphasized.
• No pay-to-play: brands do not buy placement or ratings.
• Regular updates: cure times and best practices change; we update accordingly.

Builder Gel Nails: The Complete Beginner's Guide (2026)

A real nail-tech guide to builder gel nails in 2026: what they are, who they are for, how they are applied, and which kits are worth your money.

Read more

Affiliate Disclosure

Some links are affiliate links. When you buy through them, we may earn a commission. This does not change our verdicts; it keeps the site running while we remain independent.

How We Handle Content

• Every article is written in my voice and checked for technique accuracy.
• Internal links are used to guide you to deeper tutorials and troubleshooting.
• Visual components keep content consistent as we add photos and video.

Key Mistakes We Avoid

• Publishing untested claims about cure times or product performance.
• Recommending products without noting viscosity, brush feel, and allergy considerations.
• Allowing affiliate revenue to overrule safety or honesty.
• Leaving content stale; we revisit articles when formulas or best practices change.

Final Note from Sara

Builder gel nails should feel like a protective shell, not a gamble. Thanks for trusting me with your nails. If you need the full foundation again, return to the Builder Gel Nails guide and start from the basics.