When you’re searching for the top builder gel brands US has to offer, you need formulas that lock in your manicure for two to three weeks without chipping. Builder gel blends the strength of acrylics with the flexibility of gel polish, giving you a smooth, glossy finish that stands up to daily wear. Here’s how to find the brand that fits your routine.

Explore builder gel basics

Builder gel is a viscous gel resin designed to sculpt, extend, and reinforce your natural nails. Unlike gel polish, builder gel creates a sturdy base you cure under an LED or UV lamp, then seal with a top coat for lasting shine.

Benefits of builder gel
Extra strength to resist chips
Customizable thickness and length
Smooth canvas for polish or nail art
Essential tools
LED or UV nail lamp
Nail prep kit (file, buffer, cuticle pusher)
Base gel and top coat

For more options, explore other good builder gel brands and find the formulas that match your style.

Compare leading gel brands

When it comes to durability and quality, two US names stand out:

Tones builder gel features

Tones is a salon-grade brand developed in the USA and run by women. It offers builder gels and gel polish, including the ever-popular “Chubby Bunny” in both Gel Polish and Coverland Acrylic Powder as of Winter 2025. Key highlights:

Free shipping on U.S. orders over $99
Customer service in English and Spanish
Wholesaler portal with discounts and minimum order details
Salon-grade strength for two to three week wear

OPI at-home gel system

While OPI doesn’t offer a traditional builder gel, its GELement™ line delivers high-quality gel polish with a Base & Top Coat that grips color, resists scratches, and delivers a high-shine finish. Highlights:

Exclusive crèmes and shimmers inspired by OPI’s iconic hues
Vegan, free of animal-derived ingredients
Durable wear—up to 11 days with select formulas
GELement™ LED gel lamp with automatic 60-second cure

Want a broader list of top builder gel brands? Check out our roundup.

Review pricing and shipping

Knowing costs and accessibility helps you plan your nail setup:

Tones
Free shipping in the US for orders over $99
Discounted rates and minimums via wholesaler portal
Direct online purchase, no middleman
OPI
Available at major beauty retailers and online
Lamps sold separately or in kit bundles
No minimum order requirements for at-home use

Choose the right variant

Matching your skill level and goals to the right product ensures success.

For home enthusiasts

OPI’s GELement™ and RapiDry™ lines streamline your at-home manicure. Grab a Base & Top Coat, choose your shade, cure under their LED lamp, and enjoy a quick, durable finish.

For professional strength

If you need sculpting power and salon-grade support, Tones builder gels deliver. Their wholesaler portal makes stocking up easy, and bilingual support keeps your studio running smoothly.

Still not sure which builder gel brand is best? Explore our detailed guide to make the right call.

Frequently asked questions

What is builder gel?

Builder gel is a thick gel resin used to sculpt and strengthen nails. You layer it, cure under LED or UV light, and finish with a top coat for lasting shine.

How long does builder gel last?

When applied correctly and sealed with a quality top coat, builder gel can last two to three weeks without lifting or chipping.

Is builder gel better than gel polish?

Builder gel offers more structure and can extend nail length. Gel polish is thinner and best for color and shine but won’t reinforce or lengthen nails.

How do I remove builder gel safely?

Soak nails in acetone until the gel softens, then gently push it off with a cuticle pusher. Avoid peeling or scraping to protect your natural nail.

Can I DIY builder gel at home?

Yes—with the right tools (nail lamp, prep kit, base and top gel) you can apply builder gel at home. Start with thin layers, practice your technique, and follow manufacturer instructions for best results.

Nail Supply

Discover the Top Builder Gel Brands in the US for Lasting Nails