[Updated] The Gel Bottle founder Daisy Kalnina has apologised to its nail tech users about the communication around reformulation of BIAB for UK nail professionals.
The Gel Bottle (TGB) confirmed it began transitioning some BIAB shades to an updated TPO & HEMA-free formulation in 2025, as part of what it described as its “longer-term regulatory planning and product development strategy”.
Kalnina acknowledged complaints around how the reformulation was communicated to the professional nail community.
She said, "Although these systems underwent testing and received positive feedback prior to wider distribution, we should have clearly and directly explained this to our UK community. Updating information on our website was not enough.
She added, "For that lack of clarity, I am really sorry."
In a statement issued earlier this week, the company said, "The transition to the updated formula occurred gradually rather than as a formal relaunch. We recognise that clearer communication would have been helpful particularly given how widely BIAB is relied upon within the professional community. We have now updated our website to ensure greater clarity and transparency moving forward.”
In an FAQ document issued for the UK market, the brand stated that original formula stock remains available in the UK “while supplies last” and is currently being replenished for the UK market only.
Industry feedback
The reformulation and phased transition prompted backlash from some nail technicians on social media, with concerns raised about performance consistency and the way the change was communicated.
Many commented that the change in formulation impacts the way it works and its compatability with other products, meaning that techs should have been informed in advance of the change rather than in reaction to the criticism.
Commenting on how the brand would change moving forward, Kalnina said, "We understand that when your work depends on precision and consistency, even small variations matter, and our communication should have reflected that from the outset.
She added, "Any future formulation updates will be communicated directly to our professional community prior to distribution, with a clear explanation of system impact and updated guidance."
Has BIAB been reformulated?
According to The Gel Bottle, “During 2025, we began transitioning some BIAB shades to an updated TPO & HEMA-free formulation as part of our longer-term regulatory planning and product development strategy.”
The company added that original formula stock remains available in the UK while supplies last and is currently being replenished for the UK market only.
For nail technicians asking how to check which BIAB formula they have, the brand has published guidance via its website.
Why did The Gel Bottle move to a TPO & HEMA-free formula?
Addressing the reason for the reformulation, The Gel Bottle said, “The removal of TPO was made in response to evolving regulatory requirements.”
The brand added, “The removal of HEMA formed part of our broader ingredient review and long-term strategy. As the transition began, we received strong feedback from professionals who rely on the Original BIAB performance and consistency. We have listened carefully and acted accordingly to replenish this for the UK market.”
Expanding on its decision to remove HEMA, the company said that when upcoming regulatory changes required it to remove TPO from its formulas, it “used that moment to review our system more broadly”.
“We know that some professionals actively prefer HEMA-free systems whilst others prefer to continue working with the HEMA-based formulas they know and trust. In the UK, the Original BIAB formula remainspart of our range for those who prefer it.”
Is Original BIAB discontinued in the UK?
The brand confirmed: “No. In the UK market, the Original HEMA inclusive BIAB remains part of our range and is currently being replenished.”
Replenishment stock of the Original HEMA inclusive BIAB formula is expected in the UK within the coming weeks. For availability outside of the UK, professionals are advised to contact their local distributor directly.
The Gel Bottle stated, “Both the Original and TPO & HEMA-free formulas meet all relevant cosmetic compliance standards and are safe for professional use.”
The company added that due to UK regulatory changes coming into effect in January 2027, it is “continuing research and development to ensure long term compliance while maintaining professional performance standards”. It said any future updates will be clearly communicated.
How to check which BIAB formula you’re buying
To help professionals identify which version they are purchasing, The Gel Bottle said each product page will clearly state whether the shade is:
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Original BIAB
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BIAB TPO & HEMA-Free
If technicians are uncertain about a recently purchased product, the brand has provided additional guidance online.
"Thank you for your professionalism, your feedback, and for continuing to hold us to a high standard."
