IBX System in Practice: Real Questions from Email Communication
IBX is not just a product, but a structured system for working with the natural nail. In this article, you won’t find generic instructions, but real questions we received from professional nail technicians – together with answers based on actual salon experience. These real situations will help you truly understand IBX and use it with confidence.
|
What you will find in this article:
|
 |
Basic context: how IBX works
IBX works inside the nail – it does not create a surface layer, but connects the keratin layers within the nail plate. This results in improved strength while maintaining natural flexibility.
This makes IBX ideal both as a standalone treatment and as a base under gel polish or UV/LED gels.
Real communication from salon practice
Question 1: IBX under overlays and working with regrowth
“I would like to clarify the IBX application process. The manufacturer states it can be used under overlays, but during refills not all material should be removed. At the same time, IBX is recommended once a week for heavily damaged nails. Wouldn’t that be counterproductive if the material is filed off weekly? Is it enough to apply only to regrowth, or should the whole nail be treated?”
Answer:
- IBX is primarily designed to restore damaged nails – applying it once a week is correct, but the minimum interval is 7 days.
- For severely damaged nails, consider temporarily avoiding overlays and focusing on IBX treatment.
- From experience, nails show significant improvement after 2–4 applications.
- Once the nail condition improves, weekly application is no longer necessary – a 2-week interval is recommended.
Regarding regrowth:
- IBX is applied only to the natural nail – not on skin or artificial material
- application on regrowth only is possible
- if the product adheres well, application every 2–4 weeks is sufficient
Important: IBX penetrates the nail and cannot be removed with removers – this is exactly what protects the nail from dehydration.
Question 2: Extremely weak nails and health-related factors
“My nails are so weak that they cannot grow without overlays. They bend and tear. I’ve had 2 IBX treatments so far – should I continue?”
Answer:
Yes – IBX is ideal in these cases, but it is important to consider broader factors.
- Pale or spoon-shaped nails may indicate iron deficiency
- soft nails often signal dehydration
- nutrition plays a key role (proteins, vitamins A and D)
Practical salon recommendations:
- regular IBX treatment
- frequent oiling (e.g. natural nail care)
- supplementation with iron, biotin, omega-3
Nails grow approximately 3–4 mm per month – visible results should be expected over several months.
Question 3: Heat during application
“Is a hair dryer enough, or is a special lamp required?”
Answer:
A hair dryer or warm air device is sufficient.
For better understanding:
Without heat, IBX behaves like butter on bread – it stays on the surface. With heat, it penetrates into the nail.
- the nail absorbs only what it needs
- excess product is wiped off after curing
- during later applications, less absorption is normal
Question 4: Steps after IBX application
“After IBX – can I apply color and top coat directly, or is a base coat necessary?”
Answer:
- the nail behaves like a natural nail after IBX
- the procedure remains the same as usual
- if your system requires a base coat, it must be used
The only difference:
No buffing is required immediately after IBX application.
Question 5: Damaged nails, “holes” and nail biting
“After application, a small ‘hole’ appeared in the nail. Is this a mistake?”
Answer:
- IBX must not be applied where there is no nail
- weakened areas should be avoided during the next application
- the surrounding nail plate strengthens and supports regrowth
For severely damaged nails (e.g. nail biting):
- this is a long-term process
- apply every 14 days
- patience and client cooperation are essential
IBX strengthens the internal structure of the nail, but healthy growth takes time – results are not immediate, but they are stable.
Most common mistakes in practice
- application on skin or artificial material
- insufficient heat activation
- too frequent application
- using only one part of the system
FAQ – quick answers
How often should IBX be applied?
The minimum interval is 7 days, typically every 2–3 weeks.
Can IBX be removed?
No, IBX works inside the nail and cannot be removed with removers.
Can I use IBX under gel polish?
Yes, it is ideal as an internal strengthening layer under gel polish.
When will I see results?
Initial improvement is visible after 2–3 applications, with full results as the nail grows out.
Author
This article was prepared by Lucie Králová, our IBX specialist, based on real email communication and professional salon experience.
Updated
This article has been updated according to current knowledge and professional practices in nail care.