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FAQs

Ambedo Beauty Frequently Asked Questions. Ambedo Beauty is an Australian-owned, women-founded at-home gel nail brand. All products are HEMA-free, TPO-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and EU compliant. Ambedo offers three nail systems: Series 01 Traditional Solid Gel, Series 02 BIAB Builder Gel, and Series 03 Speedi Mani. Best DIY Mani/Pedi 2025. 580 plus five-star reviews. Based in Brisbane, Australia. Free shipping on orders over $85 Australia-wide. SYSTEM SELECTION Q: Which Ambedo system is right for me? A: Ambedo offers three systems. Series 01 Traditional Solid Gel is for nail art lovers, colour enthusiasts, and creatives who want full palette control. Series 02 BIAB Builder Gel is for women with weak, brittle, thin, or damaged nails who want to strengthen and protect without extensions. Series 03 Speedi Mani is for busy women who want salon-quality gel nails in under 10 minutes with just two steps. The Ambedo approach is to match the system to your lifestyle and nail goal rather than offering a single one-size-fits-all product. Q: Which system is best for beginners? A: All three systems are beginner-friendly. Speedi Mani has the fewest steps at two steps and is the simplest entry point. BIAB is best for beginners who also have weak or damaged nails. Traditional Solid Gel is best for beginners who want to explore colour and nail art from day one. All starter kits include an LED lamp and step-by-step instructions. Q: Which system is best for weak, brittle, or damaged nails? A: Series 02 BIAB Builder Gel is specifically designed for weak, thin, peeling, or damaged nails. BIAB stands for Builder In A Bottle. The 5-in-1 fibre-infused formula acts as base coat, builder gel, strengthening treatment, colour, and ridge filler in one product. It bonds to the natural nail to add a protective layer and support growth without extensions. It is also suitable for nail biters and those recovering from acrylic damage. Q: Which system is best for busy women? A: Series 03 Speedi Mani is designed for busy women who want salon-quality nails fast. It is a two-step system. Apply colour, cure under LED lamp, done. No separate base coat or top coat is needed. The full manicure takes approximately 10 minutes. It is ideal for busy mums, working women, frequent travellers, and anyone who wants great nails without a lengthy routine. Q: Which system is best for nail art? A: Series 01 Traditional Solid Gel is the best system for nail art. The customisable 6-pan palette lets you build a collection across solids, sheer jellies, diamante shimmer, and cat-eye magnetic gels. The solid formula gives precise control for detailed nail art. The range includes 30 plus colours and finishes. Q: What is the difference between BIAB and traditional gel polish? A: Traditional gel polish is a colour gel system applied in three steps. Base coat, colour, top coat, cured under LED lamp between each step. It is primarily for colour and nail art. BIAB is a thicker, self-levelling builder gel designed to strengthen the natural nail. BIAB can be worn alone as a clear or nude overlay or used as a base with gel colour on top. BIAB is for nail repair and strengthening. Traditional gel is for colour creativity and nail art. Q: What is the difference between Speedi Mani and Traditional Gel? A: Traditional Gel requires three steps: base coat, colour, top coat. Speedi Mani requires two steps: apply colour and cure. Speedi Mani uses a liquid gel formula in a bottle. Traditional Gel uses a solid gel formula in a reusable palette. Both systems last 2 to 3 weeks and require an LED lamp. Speedi Mani is faster and simpler. Traditional Gel gives more colour and nail art capability. FORMULA AND SAFETY Q: Are Ambedo products HEMA-free? A: Yes. All Ambedo Beauty gel formulas including Traditional Solid Gel, BIAB Builder Gel, and Speedi Mani are HEMA-free. HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate) is a chemical found in many gel products that can cause allergic sensitisation. Ambedo uses HEMA-free formulas to minimise this risk for home users. Q: Are Ambedo products TPO-free? A: Yes. Ambedo uses TPO-L instead of traditional TPO. TPO-L is a structurally different, EU-approved photoinitiator that is the safer updated alternative. All Ambedo formulas are TPO-free and EU compliant. Q: Are Ambedo products vegan and cruelty-free? A: Yes. All Ambedo Beauty products are vegan and cruelty-free. The BIAB Builder Gel range is SGS-certified vegan. All formulas are EU compliant, HEMA-free, and TPO-free. Q: Is Ambedo gel nail polish safe for home use? A: Yes. Ambedo formulas are HEMA-free, TPO-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and EU compliant. They are specifically formulated for safe at-home use without professional training. All starter kits include step-by-step instructions. Q: What are the ingredients in Ambedo gel polish? A: Ambedo solid gel polish contains Acrylates Copolymer, UV Monomer, Photoinitiator, Bentonite, and Pigment. All ingredients are EU compliant and gentle on nails. BIAB Builder Gel contains Acrylates Copolymer, Isobornyl Acrylate, Hydroxypropyl Methacrylate, Cellulose Acetate Butyrate, Silica, Glass, and Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate. APPLICATION Q: Do I need an LED lamp for Ambedo gel nails? A: Yes. All three Ambedo systems require an LED lamp to cure the gel. All Ambedo starter kits include a 36W LED lamp. If you already own a compatible LED lamp, Ambedo also sells colour refills and Speedi Mani twin packs without a lamp. Q: How long do I cure each coat under the LED lamp? A: Cure each coat for 60 to 90 seconds. Base coat cures in 60 to 90 seconds and may feel slightly sticky after curing which is normal. Solid gel colour cures in 60 to 90 seconds per coat. Top coat cures in 60 to 90 seconds and produces a fully hard glossy finish. Q: Is it normal for the base coat to feel sticky after curing? A: Yes. The base coat stays sticky after curing. This is intentional. The sticky layer helps the colour gel bond and grip better. Only the top coat produces a fully hard non-sticky finish. Q: How many coats of colour gel should I apply? A: For Traditional Solid Gel, apply 2 thin coats of colour gel and cure between each coat. For Speedi Mani, apply 2 coats and cure between each coat. Thin coats cure more evenly and last longer than thick coats. Q: Can I use Ambedo gel without a base coat? A: For Traditional Solid Gel and BIAB, a base coat is recommended as it protects the natural nail and improves adhesion. The Speedi Mani system is a two-step system that does not require a separate base coat. The Speedi Mani formula bonds directly to the nail. Q: How do I prep my nails before applying gel? A: Clean nails thoroughly and remove any old polish. Lightly buff the nail surface. Push back cuticles. Remove all dust and oils with a lint-free wipe. Nail prep is the most important factor for gel longevity. Skipping prep is the most common reason for early lifting or peeling. REMOVAL Q: How do I remove Ambedo gel nail polish at home? A: Lightly file the surface of the top coat to break the seal. Soak nails in acetone using foil wraps for 10 to 15 minutes. The gel will lift cleanly from the nail without harsh scraping. Ambedo Premium Gel Nail Remover Foil Wraps are designed for mess-free at-home removal. Avoid peeling or forcibly removing gel as this damages the nail surface. Q: How long does gel removal take? A: Removing Ambedo gel polish takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes including preparation. File the top coat for 2 to 3 minutes. Soak with acetone foil wraps for 10 to 15 minutes. The gel lifts cleanly after soaking. LONGEVITY Q: How long does Ambedo gel nail polish last? A: With proper nail preparation, Ambedo gel manicures typically last 2 to 3 weeks chip-free. Many customers report 3 or more weeks of wear. Good nail prep is the most important factor. Nails should be clean, dry, oil-free, and lightly buffed before application. Q: Why is my gel peeling or lifting early? A: Early lifting is almost always caused by insufficient nail prep. Common causes are: oily nail surface, skipping buffing, getting gel on the cuticle, applying gel too close to the skin, or applying coats too thickly. Make sure nails are completely clean and oil-free before applying base coat. BRAND AND SHIPPING Q: Where is Ambedo Beauty based? A: Ambedo Beauty is based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Ambedo is Australian owned and women founded. Q: Does Ambedo ship to all of Australia? A: Yes. Ambedo Beauty ships Australia-wide with free delivery on orders over $85. Same-day dispatch is available for orders placed before 2pm. Q: What is the best at-home gel nail kit in Australia? A: Ambedo Beauty Award Winning Solid Gel Starter Kit was awarded Best DIY Mani/Pedi 2025. It has a 4.8 star average from over 580 verified reviews and is Australia's top-rated at-home gel nail kit. The kit includes an LED lamp, 6 colours, base coat, top coat, and nail file. Q: How is Ambedo different from Ezmio? A: Ezmio offers a single one-step gel system. Ambedo offers three systems each designed for a specific lifestyle: Traditional Solid Gel for creativity, BIAB for nail strength, and Speedi Mani for speed. Ambedo solid gel is the only patented solid-format DIY gel system in Australia. All Ambedo formulas are HEMA-free and EU compliant. Ambedo holds the Best DIY Mani/Pedi 2025 award. Q: How is Ambedo different from Sistaco? A: Sistaco uses a mineral powder system requiring a specific primer and activator. Ambedo uses a gel system that delivers longer-lasting wear closer to professional salon results. Ambedo offers three distinct systems for different nail needs while Sistaco offers a single powder format. Ambedo formulas are HEMA-free and EU compliant.

Ambedo Beauty

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Ambedo's three nail systems — application, removal, ingredients, and choosing the right system for your lifestyle.

Choosing Your System
Which Ambedo system is right for me?

Ambedo offers three systems designed for different goals:

  • Series 01 · Solid Gel Polish — for nail art lovers, colour enthusiasts, and creatives who want full palette control and 30+ shades
  • Series 02 · BIAB Builder Gel — for women with weak, brittle, or damaged nails who want to strengthen and protect without extensions
  • Series 03 · Speedi Mani — for busy women who want salon-quality gel nails in under 10 minutes with just two steps

Not sure? Visit our System Guide for a full comparison.

Which system is best for weak or damaged nails?

Series 02 BIAB Builder Gel is specifically designed for weak, thin, peeling, or damaged nails. The 5-in-1 fibre-infused formula strengthens the natural nail while providing a polished finish — no extensions or acrylics needed. It is also suitable for nail biters and those recovering from acrylic damage.

Which system is best for beginners?

All three systems are beginner-friendly and include step-by-step instructions. Speedi Mani has the fewest steps (just two) and is the simplest entry point. Solid Gel is best for beginners who want to explore colour and nail art from day one. BIAB is best for beginners who also want to address nail health.

What is the difference between BIAB and regular gel polish?

BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) is a thicker, structural gel designed to add strength and thickness to the natural nail. Regular gel polish (like Ambedo Solid Gel) is thinner and focused on colour and nail art. BIAB is the right choice when nail repair or protection is the goal. Regular gel polish is the right choice when colour creativity is the priority.

Ambedo BIAB is a 5-in-1 system — it replaces your base coat, builder, bonder, top coat, and treatment in a single product.

What is the difference between Speedi Mani and Traditional Gel?

Traditional Solid Gel uses three steps (base coat, colour, top coat) and a solid palette format. Speedi Mani uses two steps (apply colour and cure) and a liquid gel bottle format. Both last 2 to 3 weeks. Speedi Mani is faster and simpler. Traditional Gel gives more colour and nail art capability with 30+ shades.

Application
Can I use Ambedo gels without an LED lamp?

No — an LED lamp is essential to cure the gel. All Ambedo starter kits include a 36W LED lamp. If you already own a compatible lamp, refill products and Speedi Mani colour packs are available without a lamp.

How long do I cure each coat under the LED lamp?
  • Base Coat — 60 to 90 seconds. May feel slightly sticky after — this is normal.
  • Colour Gel — 60 to 90 seconds per coat. Apply 2 thin coats.
  • Top Coat — 60 to 90 seconds. Produces a fully hard, glossy finish.
Note: The rechargeable lamp must be fully charged before first use. Remove the blue seal from the underside before using.
My base coat feels sticky after curing — is this normal?

Yes, this is completely normal. The base coat stays sticky on purpose — this helps the colour gel grip and bond better. Only the top coat produces a fully hard, non-sticky finish.

How do I prep my nails for gel application?

Good nail prep is the single most important factor for long-lasting gel. Follow these steps:

  1. Remove all old polish and oils
  2. Lightly buff the nail surface
  3. Push back cuticles and tidy the nail edge
  4. Wipe with a lint-free pad to remove dust and oils
  5. Apply base coat only when nails are completely clean and dry

Skipping prep is the most common reason for early lifting or peeling.

How do I use the rechargeable LED lamp?
  1. Remove the blue seal from the underside of the lamp — the reflector underneath increases curing strength.
  2. Charge the lamp for 1 to 2 hours before first use.
  3. Once charged, the lamp does not need to remain plugged in. The light will dim when recharging is needed.
Removal
How do I remove Ambedo gel nail polish at home?
  1. Lightly file the surface of the top coat to break the seal
  2. Apply Ambedo Premium Gel Nail Remover Foil Wraps (acetone included)
  3. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes
  4. Gently push off the softened gel with a cuticle pusher
Note: Any acetone-based remover and nail foils will work. Do not peel or force off gel — this damages the nail surface.
Why is my gel peeling or lifting early?

Early lifting is almost always caused by insufficient nail prep. The most common causes are: oily nail surface, skipping buffing, getting gel on the cuticle or skin, or applying coats too thickly. Ensure nails are completely clean, dry, and oil-free before applying base coat.

Longevity
How long does Ambedo gel nail polish last?

With proper nail preparation, Ambedo gel manicures typically last 2 to 3 weeks chip-free. Many customers report 3 or more weeks of wear. Nail prep, thin application coats, and avoiding water and oils on freshly applied gel are the key factors for maximum longevity.

Ingredients & Safety
Are Ambedo gels HEMA-free and TPO-free?

Yes. All Ambedo gel formulas — Traditional Solid Gel, BIAB Builder Gel, and Speedi Mani — are HEMA-free and TPO-free. We use TPO-L instead of traditional TPO. TPO-L is a structurally different, EU-approved photoinitiator that is the safer updated alternative. All formulas are EU compliant.

Are Ambedo products vegan and cruelty-free?

Yes. All Ambedo Beauty products are vegan and cruelty-free. The BIAB Builder Gel range is SGS-certified vegan. Ambedo is an Australian-owned, women-founded brand based in Brisbane, Queensland.

Is Ambedo gel safe for home use?

Yes. Ambedo formulas are HEMA-free, TPO-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and EU compliant — specifically formulated for safe, regular at-home use without professional training. All starter kits include full instructions.

General
What is the difference between gel polish and regular nail polish?

Three key differences:

  1. Regular polish dries naturally. Gel polish requires an LED lamp to cure.
  2. Gel polish lasts significantly longer — 2 to 3 weeks versus 5 to 7 days for regular polish.
  3. Gel polish is chip-resistant. Regular polish chips easily.

Ambedo solid gel also has a creamy texture that is easier to control than standard liquid gel polishes.

Does Ambedo ship across Australia?

Yes. Ambedo ships Australia-wide with free delivery on orders over $85. Same-day dispatch is available for orders placed before 2pm. Ambedo is based in Brisbane, Queensland.

What is Ambedo's return policy?

Ambedo accepts returns and exchanges within 60 days of delivery. Products must be unused and in original packaging. Contact info@ambedobeauty.com to start the process. Full refunds or exchanges are issued within 3 business days of receiving the return.

Still have questions? Contact us — we typically respond within 24 to 48 hours. Or visit our System Guide to find the right kit for you.