BIAB pricing in Ireland varies much more by salon, location and service detail than one national price suggests. Current published menus checked in September 2026 show straightforward BIAB overlays commonly around the mid-€40s to €60 in Dublin examples, while some specialist studios and longer manicure formats charge more. Removal is usually a separate, lower-priced service, and French, chrome, cat-eye or detailed nail art often adds to the base price.
The best way to compare prices is to compare like with like: fresh overlay versus refill, natural BIAB versus BIAB plus gel colour, removal-only versus remove-and-reapply, and a plain finish versus nail art.
What does a basic BIAB price usually include?
A basic overlay normally covers preparation, shaping, builder gel applied over the natural nail and a simple BIAB or nude finish. Cuticle work may be included, limited, or priced differently depending on the salon’s manicure style.
Do not assume that “BIAB €45” and “BIAB €55” describe identical appointments. One may include colour, cuticle work or removal, while another lists each part separately.
Fresh overlay versus refill
A fresh overlay starts a new BIAB structure on the natural nail. A refill or rebalance keeps sound product in place, removes lifting and excess length, and rebuilds the apex as the nail grows.
In many current Irish price lists, a refill is close to the cost of a fresh overlay because it still requires detailed preparation and rebalancing. The price is not simply based on how much new gel is used.
How much can removal add?
Published Irish menus currently show BIAB removal-only prices from roughly the mid-teens to around €20 in several Dublin examples, with higher prices possible where a full manicure or extensive removal work is included. Some salons charge less for removal when a new set is applied immediately.
If you are wearing product applied by another technician, check the booking menu carefully. Some nail techs require full removal before they will work over another salon’s product, and the appointment may need extra time.
Gel colour, French, chrome and nail art
Colour can be included in the base service or offered as an add-on. French, chrome, cat-eye and more detailed art commonly increase both the price and appointment length. Published Dublin menus often show a €5–€10 step between a plain overlay and French or chrome.
For custom art, send an inspiration photo before booking. A salon can then tell you whether the design fits the selected service and how much time to reserve.
Why prices differ between salons
Location matters, but it is not the only factor. Appointment length, technician experience, rent, product system, manicure method, nail-art complexity and whether the salon includes removal all affect the final price.
A longer specialist BIAB manicure can cost more than a fast overlay even in the same county. Price alone does not tell you how much preparation, structure work or finishing time is included.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Is BIAB always more expensive than gel polish?
Usually, because BIAB appointments involve building and balancing more structure, but pricing depends on the salon and what each service includes.
Does a BIAB refill cost less than a fresh set?
Sometimes, but not always. A refill still involves prep, removal of lifted product, reshaping and rebuilding the structure.
Is nail art included in the BIAB price?
Often only a simple or plain finish is included. French, chrome, cat-eye and detailed art are commonly charged separately.
Should I book removal if I already have BIAB on?
Yes, unless the salon specifically says the selected refill or remove-and-reapply service includes it. If the product is from another salon, check the policy first.