All About Builder Gel for Nails, According to Nail Experts (2025)

One beauty treatment that will never go out of style? Having gorgeous nails. Whether treating yourself to an in-salon manicure or DIYing your own set of nails at home, there’s nothing like that feeling of fresh color, pristine cuticles and perfectly shaped nails. Not only do they look good, but having our nails done makes us feel good too and can boost our confidence. And there certainly is no shortage of nail trends and types of manicures to choose from—a gel mani to acrylics and Gel-X nails, there are many different ways to add length and durability through a manicure. Recently, we’ve seen a huge rise in another nail trend: builder gel nails. Here, we get into everything there is to know about builder gel, its benefits, what to be aware of and more with insights from nail pros.

What is builder gel for nails?

If you’re looking into trying any type of manicure, it’s important to know what exactly you’re putting on your nails. “Builder gel is an oligomer used to strengthen natural nails as well as create nail extensions. It has a honey-like consistency that typically comes in a pot or a bottle,” explains celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec. “Once applied to the natural nail or nail tip, it is cured with an LED lamp to create a durable base that can be used to enhance the length, strength or both.” Builder gel comes in two different forms: soft gel and hard gel.

The difference between soft and hard builder gel

While both soft and hard builder gel can strengthen and protect the nails, there are some key differences between the two. If your main goal is to add length to your nails, you’ll want to use a hard builder gel, explains Kandalec. “Soft builder gel can’t be used to make the nail longer than about 2mm, only hard gel can do that,” she says.

These two types of builder gel also differ in their removal process. Soft builder gel can be soaked off with acetone, similar to how you would soak off a gel manicure or acrylics. Hard builder gel, on the other hand, can only be filed off, Kandalec tells us, as it is acetone-resistant.

The benefits of builder gel for nails

There are quite a few benefits to using builder gel over acrylic or other types of nail enhancements. For starters, it can help add length to nails while protecting them. “For those who are particularly interested in growing out their natural nails and gaining length, builder gel is a great product to protect the length,” says Eunice Park, nail artist and brand director at Aprés Nail. “The stronger formula will allow you to build the appropriate apex and side walls for maximum protection and structure.”

Even more, builder gel is beloved for its flexibility, making it easier to create the perfect shape and length. “Builder gel creates a flexible, supportive layer that gives nails a stronger and more aesthetic shape. It is more flexible than acrylic, allowing nail pros to build the apex (the middle, where the strength is needed the most),” explains Kandalec. “Many clients love builder gel for its natural feel. Because it is more flexible, it is also less prone to lifting! Another pro of builder gel is that it has no odor and it is easy to file if needed.”

Does builder gel damage nails?

In short, no, builder gel shouldn’t be damaging to your nails—that is, as long as it is applied and removed properly. “With proper prep, application and removal, builder gel shouldn’t be damaging on the nails,” says Park. “Soft gel builders can be soaked off with acetone so make sure to take the time to properly soak off the product to protect the nails.”

Kandalec agrees that builder gel shouldn’t be damaging if done right. “I have clients who have worn builder gel for years and show no signs of weakening or damage. In fact, it adds strength and protection to the nail for weeks at a time,” she tells us. “Also, builder gel is self-leveling, meaning it requires little to no filing on the nails. Of course, it must be applied and removed properly to prevent damage to the nails.”

Can you apply builder gel to nails at home?

Both experts we spoke to say they don’t recommend using builder gel at home. Not only is it a difficult technique to master (Park told us it often takes months for nail techs to perfect it), it’s not the safest option.

“I don’t recommend trying this at home. Many consumer nail kits from places like Amazon or AliExpress contain high levels of HEMA and other chemicals that, if not used correctly or fully cured, can lead to serious and long-lasting allergic reactions,” Kandalec advises. “The safest option? See a licensed nail professional. They use high-quality, professional products with safer levels of HEMA, etc. and know exactly how to apply them without touching the skin, reducing the risk of allergies and irritation.”

If you are going to try builder gel at home, Parke advises, “With any new skill, slow and steady is the best approach. But for best results, a professional is always best.” She adds that prolonged exposure to gel on the skin can even cause contact dermatitis, so it’s best to take your time and be precise. One of her favorite soft builder gels is Aprés Soft Gel Builder. “It has a wonderful self-leveling formula and great hold and durability. It also comes with Brush-X, which is a high-quality brush that allows for easy precision and application.”

Kandalec’s favorite builder gel to use as a professional is CND Plexigel Essentials, Nail Thoughts x Kokoist and The GelBottle Inc. Builder in a Bottle.