The Difference Between Gel Polish and Builder Gel
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The days of spending hours and tons of dollars on an overpriced manicure are over. If you know us, then you know Ezmio’s number one passion is empowering women to do salon-worthy nails with our products, at the fraction of the price of a salon trip. But which nail trend is right for you? There are many different benefits to our one step gel polish and our builder gel. In this article, we help you decide which product is right for you. We’ll go through the differences between our one step gel polish and builder gel so that you can focus on where to begin for your own DIY nail journey. Remember, you can join our exclusive Ezmio Facebook group Ezmio Nail Talk for hot nail trends and must-know tips to get you set on your Ezmio journey. Let’s get started.
What is One Step Gel?
One step gel is your all-in-one shortcut to salon-quality nails. Here’s why it’s a crowd favourite at Ezmio:
- All-in-one formula: Combines base coat, colour, and top coat in one bottle. There’s no need for separate layers!
- Quick application: Perfect for beginners, or anyone short on time. Simply apply, cure under your Ezmio lamp, and go.
- Lightweight finish: Feels super natural and flexible on the nail - never bulky.
- Lasts up to 10 - 14 days: With the right prep and curing, your nails look fresh for up to two weeks.
- Best for short to medium natural nails: It’s the perfect pick for everyday glam, but isn’t designed for adding strength or length.
- Easy to remove: Use our gentle Gel Remover, or simply peel off if you’ve used our Peel-Off Base Coat.
- No added structure: Because it’s designed for convenience, it won’t reinforce long nails or help if you need extra strength.
If you want a speedy mani that still feels beautiful and natural, Ezmio’s One Step Gel is your go-to. And unlike generic polishes, ours is safe, vegan, and made for Aussie conditions.
What is Builder Gel?
If you want to take your nails to the next level - with extra strength, custom shape, or even a bit of length - builder gel is a must-have.
- Thicker consistency: Builder gel is made to build up structure and add serious strength to your nails.
- Multi-step system: You’ll need to use our 2in1 Base Coat and finish with our No Wipe Top Coat for best results.
- Long-lasting wear: When applied correctly, builder gel can last an incredible 3 - 4 weeks.
- Supports nail growth: Perfect for helping your nails grow longer without breaking.
- Can be used for soft gel extensions: Ideal for sculpting, whether you want a subtle overlay or dramatic tips.
- Stronger and more durable: Especially suited for brittle, weak, or damaged nails.
- Refillable: Instead of removing the entire set, you can simply “infill” or refill the grown-out area for less hassle between sets.
- Custom shaping: Create a smooth, professional-looking apex for added strength. After applying builder gel, wipe off the sticky inhibition layer with an Alcohol Prep Pad, shape with our Essential Buffer, and wipe again before your No Wipe Top Coat.
- Easy to remove: Use our Gel Remover for a gentle removal. For best results, file down about 80% of the builder gel with our Remover File first - this allows the remover to penetrate and lift the product with less effort.
Ezmio’s Builder Gel is a game-changer for anyone who wants professional results at home, or has trouble with brittle or damaged nails.
So, What’s the Real Difference?
One step gel is all about quick, effortless colour with a natural feel. Builder gel is about strength, structure, and custom shaping. Here’s a side-by-side look:
| Feature | Ezmio One Step Gel | Ezmio Builder Gel |
|---|---|---|
| Formula | All-in-one (base, colour, top) | Separate base, builder, and top coat |
| Application | One-step, super quick | Multi-step, needs some skill |
| Finish | Lightweight, flexible, natural | Strong, structured |
| Wear Time | 10 - 14 days | 3 - 4 weeks |
| Best for | Short/medium natural nails | Weak, brittle, or longer nails; extensions |
| Structure | No added structure | Reinforces, builds, supports nail growth |
| Removal | Peel-off with Gel Remover | File most off, then remove with Gel Remover |
| Refillable | No | Yes—just infill as your nails grow |
Why Choose Ezmio?
Ezmio is proud to be 100% women-run, and we design our products specifically for real people who want stunning nails at home. Our gels are safer, more reliable, and more empowering than anything you’ll find at a big-box store. We’re always here for support and nail inspo!
Thank you for supporting Australian, women-owned beauty - and for reading! If you have any questions or want help choosing the right product, our team is always happy to help. Join our community on Instagram @ezmiobeauty and tag us in your creations!
Ready to try Ezmio’s One Step Gel or Builder Gel? Explore the full range now and start your journey to beautiful, strong nails at home.
The difference between one step gel and builder gel comes down to your style, your nail goals, and how you love to do your nails. With Ezmio, you can’t go wrong - every set is a chance to shine.
