All girls dream of their nails being strong, healthy and always looking good. Unfortunately, there are many factors that can harm nails and ruin their attractiveness and appearance. And then we begin to look for a miracle remedy that will help correct the problem and return the nails to their former appearance.
In fact, it is more correct to take care of your nails constantly and follow the rules for applying artificial coatings in order to prevent deterioration of the condition of the nail plate. However, problems do happen, and it’s good that such a miracle remedy that has already helped hundreds, and maybe thousands of girls, exists! This is a system for strengthening nails called IBX system, produced in America by the Famous Names brand, which we will talk about here.
In this article we will talk in detail about:
1. What is IBX and what problems will it help solve?
2. Composition of the IBX system kit
3. Instructions for applying IBX
4. Rules for using IBX and common errors
5. Reviews and results before and after strengthening IBX
Line composition
Founders of IBX System - right and left
Products enriched with organic jojoba and avocado oils are gaining more and more popularity in the world of the nail industry every year.
The IBX – Iceberg Big X product line consists of three items:
- two-component set IBX System for deep nail restoration;
- IBX Mini Pack – a restorative complex of three components;
- BASE & IBX BOOST - leveling base and smoothing coating.
Why an iceberg? It’s very simple: the system does most of the work deep in the nail plate, and an elegant result is visible on the surface! The official website of the brand is famousnamesproducts.com.
Composition of the IBX system kit
The standard IBX Duo Pack consists of two products: IBX REPAIR and IBX STRENGTHEN.
Let's look at how each of them works. IBX REPAIR is available in 7.4 ml. It is used first to repair problem areas of the nails. Conventionally, its work can be described as follows: after application, the product heats up and is able to penetrate deep into the nail plate, where it polymerizes, glues together the nail scales exposed under the influence of the lamp and becomes part of them.
IBX STRENGTHEN has a volume of 10.4 ml. Its main job is to consolidate the result that was achieved by IBX REPAIR, and the action extends to a higher level.
These two products only work in combination; using them separately does not guarantee results.
How do the products work?
Excerpt from IBX System patent
The IBX System system for restoring and strengthening nails involves the sequential use of two caring substances combined in one set - IBX Repair and IBX gel:
IBX Repair actively “repairs” chips, delaminations, cracks and other possible damage on the nail plate. The substance acts like cement or adhesive tape, firmly gluing the destroyed stratum corneum of the nail. When heated, the molecular structure of the substance changes and penetrates deep into the nail plate. The oils contained in the composition open the scales of the stratum corneum, under the influence of heat the substance polymerizes, creating a strong crystal lattice inside.
Effect:
- the drug restores nails that have defects after removing gel polish;
- hands look healthy and well-groomed;
- the new coating, which will use gel polish, will not cause damage during future removal, because it will lie on a strong, healthy base.
IBX gel creates a protective screen on the surface of the nail; the product contains natural oils, plant extracts and a formula that secures the frame of the previous layer. It reliably connects the surface of the nail plate with the polymer inside it.
Effect:
- smooth nails;
- aesthetic appearance and healthy natural color after manicure;
- high degree of strength and safety.
- The shelf life of the products is 36 months.
- Volume: Repair – 9.5 ml, IBX protectant – 14.3 ml.
- Price on the Russian market from 2,899 rubles.
Frequently asked questions about the IBX system.
Some questions that arose in my mind when deciding to buy this system and that I heard from other people who were interested in this IBX system:
- How to prepare the nail plate before applying IBX?
There is no need to do any special preparation. You do everything you usually do when preparing your nails for a manicure. If you file uneven spots or sand a little to straighten your nails, you can safely do this. You can also do a dry hardware manicure. The main thing to remember is: before the procedure you CANNOT do any water treatments or use softeners/removers. Nails that are saturated with water will not accept IBX and it will not be able to penetrate into the nail to strengthen it. If you need to do both IBX strengthening and a classic manicure at the same time, then the order of execution should be as follows: first strengthening, then manicure. Also, medicated nail coating can be used in both manicure and pedicure.
— Is it difficult to apply?
If you can make your own gel polish coating, then there should be no problems with applying this system. If you are not confident in yourself, then it is better to go to the salon to a specialist you trust. The main thing is to follow the order of application of the products and apply without touching the skin around the nail.
— What do nails with IBX treatment coating look like?
After the IBX strengthening procedure, the nails do not have any visible coating, because all applied strengthening agents penetrate into the nail under the influence of heat and UV rays. At the end of the procedure, the nails “glowed a little with health from the inside” and the visible dryness of the nail plate was eliminated. Similar strengthening can be done for men and there will be no visual coverage; only you and your specialist will know about the procedure performed.
— How to remove the IBX treatment coating?
The IBX system does not have any layer; it is completely absorbed into the nail and is removed only with the cut part of the nail. Although why would you take it off if you are doing it to strengthen it?)
— Is it possible to use the system during pregnancy?
You can use the system with your doctor's permission. Although I think everyone decides for themselves here, some don’t even cut their hair, while others only limit contact with chemicals.
— Which lamp should be used at the WARM UP stage?
A regular incandescent lamp is suitable. LED and energy saving lamps are not suitable. You can also use a hairdryer, but this is not very convenient, because there is no way to warm up both hands at once. And at the stage of applying IBX you have to hold the hair dryer for a very long time, which is not very convenient.
— Which lamp to choose for polymerization
?
UV lamp 36W; LED lamp - the power does not matter and does not affect the polymerization time.
— Is it possible to apply IBX in 3 layers at once during the first procedure?
The drug should be applied strictly following the manufacturer's instructions. This is a chemical drug and the manufacturer recommends the optimal dose for the drug to work and not cause harm to the nails.
— How to combine the IBX strengthening procedure and gel polish coating?
The manufacturer advises doing strengthening procedures once a week only for very damaged nails, which definitely should not be coated with a permanent coating. Therefore, if you are recommended to undergo treatment with a course of 1 r/week, then you should give up gel polish for a while
and just treat your nails. When the nails are a little stronger and it becomes possible to switch to a course of treatment with IBX 1r/2wk, then you can combine the treatment with a permanent gel polish coating.
— Preparing nails for gel polish after the IBX strengthening procedure?
The usual preparation procedures are carried out as if no IBX strengthening had been done. The drug is absorbed into the nail and even minor polishing will not reduce its therapeutic effect. But here you need to understand that damaged nails are strengthened, and strong polishing will only harm such nails.
— What is the shelf life of the IBX medicinal product?
Each bottle has an expiration date of 36 months from opening. When applied correctly, as recommended by the manufacturer, the product is used on average 60 times, plus/minutes depending on the length of the nails.
Instructions
The product gives the best effect on dry nails, so it is not recommended to carry out the procedure immediately after a wet trimmed manicure, bath, or shower.
Step-by-step application instructions:
- Without softening agents, remove the previous varnish coating
- Give the free edge of the nail the desired shape and length
- Remove cuticles without using water or softeners
- Sand the surface of the nail plate with a soft buff
- Degrease your fingers with a professional dehydrator
- Clean your nails with Famous Names' Cinnatize Disinfectant
- Gently apply a thin layer of IBX Repair to the nail from the small bottle. The brush must be squeezed out and only coat the central part of the nail, since the liquid substance easily spreads to the edges. Otherwise, a dense rim will form on the cuticle, which is not easy to remove.
- If pain or burning sensations appear in your fingers during work, the procedure must be stopped.
- Dry your nails for 1-2 minutes under a hairdryer or under a regular 100-watt incandescent lamp at a distance of at least 20 cm. Temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius will make the procedure useless, since most of the drug will evaporate before it has time to be absorbed
- Use a tissue or lint-free sponge to remove excess sticky material.
- Cure the coating under an LED lamp for 1 minute or a 36 watt UV lamp for 2 minutes
- Remove the dispersion layer from the nail surface with any cleanser, you can use Cleaner from Severina
- Use IBX from the second, large bottle, application technique is the same
- Dry the new layer for 4 minutes under a hair dryer or 75-100 watt light bulb
- Remove excess product with a lint-free sponge
- Use LED again - 1 minute or UV lamp, 2 minutes
- Remove the dispersion layer with a cleaner
- If you are using the drug for the first time, you need to repeat the procedure for applying the protective agent from a large bottle
- Dry the surfaces again with warm air from a hair dryer or under a household incandescent lamp for no more than 2 minutes.
- Use an absorbent sponge
- Cure the layer for 1 minute in an LED lamp or 2 minutes in a UV lamp
- Remove the dispersion layer with a cleaner
- Treat the plates and cuticles with the caring nourishing oil Dadi Oil from Famous Names
When reusing the product, steps 18 - 22 do not need to be performed.
After strengthening your nails, you can use regular or gel polish, but you should not apply additional strengthening agents to them. There are enamels that penetrate deeply into the nail structure, but are not retained in it and can interfere with the action of IBX.
Nail care after the procedure and popular questions
Immediately after restoring the nails, it is necessary to moisturize the cuticle, since the action of high temperatures during heating will clearly not benefit it.
- Take any moisturizing oil (by the way, Famous Names has a wonderful natural oil Dadi Oil, another bestseller among artists and their clients) and apply thickly to the side rollers.
- Rub in with massage movements.
This way you will provide adequate nutrition to the skin and improve the appearance of your hands.
Type of nails after the procedure
After the procedure, the nails acquire a healthy appearance and look moisturized and well-groomed. At the same time, there are no traces of a visible coating (glossy or matte) on them, because, we repeat, the drug penetrates into the very structure of the nail plate and works from the inside.
Indications for use
IBX System is ideal if:
- you use gel polish, shellac, acrylic;
- the coating does not last long - it chips, peels off;
- manicure is often exposed to water or aggressive substances;
The use of the drug by pregnant women and nursing mothers is allowed: the product does not contain dangerous methylbenzene, which is used for leveling in some varnishes.
Price for IBX for nails
If you decide to tidy up your nails yourself using the IBX system, then in the online store the cost of the set will cost 2,899 rubles excluding delivery.
Check the current price for the IBX System set
For beginners, we recommend purchasing the mini version, also known as IBX System Mini Pack, its price is lower - 1,399 rubles.
Check the current price for the IBX System Mini Pack
A salon procedure for nail restoration will cost less, approximately from 700 to 1,500 rubles per session. Obviously, it is much more profitable to buy a system than to go to the salon every time.
IBX Mini Pack
The IBX Mini Pack complex consists of three components:
- Repair for deep healing of damage in the nail plate, works on the principle of adhesive tape, firmly gluing the exfoliated particles inside the nail;
- Strengthen to strengthen the nail surface;
- Dadi Oil is a moisturizing cuticle oil made from 95% natural organic ingredients.
This is a miniature version of the IBX System with the same method of application . The set already contains nourishing oil; there is no need to purchase it separately.
Volume – 2.7 ml Repair, 3.7 ml – Strengthen, 3.7 ml – Dadi Oil. The price on the Russian market is from 1399 rubles.
What is IBX
IBX System is a professional salon procedure, or rather, the first and only treatment system of its kind for problem nails.
The name comes from three words: Iceberg - iceberg, Big - huge, X - number ten in Latin. And it’s easy to decipher the meaning of this combination: the drugs work like an iceberg, the main part of which is hidden from view. That is, the restoration process occurs inside the nail plate and, of course, extends to all 10 nails.
It is the internal action that is the main difference between IBX and the many reinforcing coatings on the market. The drug adheres to the surface of the nail plate, penetrates the structure and becomes part of it. Therefore, it is not removed with acrylic and gel polish remover, but grows back along with the natural nail.
This technology from Famous Names is patented in the Russian Federation.
Application area of IBX System
IBX products can be used on healthy nails for an extra boost that never hurts. However, there are a number of cases in which experts strongly recommend resorting to miracle remedies.
- For complex treatment of weak, thin nails.
- To eliminate specific damage to problem nails: chips, peeling, unevenness, yellow spots.
- As a protective layer under coating with varnish, gel polish, gel.
First of all, IBX is an excellent product for improving the condition and stimulating the growth of natural nails, which can be used at home. The drug does not dry out the nail plate, but rather moisturizes and nourishes it from the inside. In addition, the IBX System intensive therapy is ideal before applying any artificial turf. In this case, the product acts as double-sided tape, making it possible to seal the damaged areas of the nail.
Famous Names, IBX Mini Pack
The system for restoring and protecting nails includes: IBX Repair (2.7 ml), IBX Strengthen (3.75 ml) and Dadi Oil cuticle oil (3.75 ml) as a gift.
(237)
RUB 1,920
RUB 1,920 Buy
Famous Names, IBX Repair, 7.4 ml
A product for deep restoration of damaged nails. Used together with IBX. Expiration date until August 2022.
(53)
RUB 2,459
RUR 2,459 Buy
The system consists of two drugs that are recommended to be used in combination: IBX and IBX Repair - each performs its own functions. The first remedy strengthens nails, protects and promotes growth. The second restores the nail plate completely or only damaged areas.
In what cases does the system not help?
It is important to know that the IBX System does not provide drug treatment for nails, therefore:
- You should not expect miracles if you have fungal infections, psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema - the horny surface affected by the disease will show all the signs of the disease and will not heal without medical help;
- the drug is not hypoallergenic, so you should not use it if your body is particularly sensitive to certain components;
- the remedy will only hide defects for a very short time if they are caused not by mechanical, but by medical problems within the body: poor nutrition, hormonal imbalances, bad habits, overdose of antibiotics, vitamin deficiency.
The phrase “deep treatment of nails IBX System” should be understood as high-quality restoration, aesthetic transformation.
Rules for using IBX and common errors
How often to repeat the procedure?
Although the effect of applying IBX is most often visible after the first use, this system is still designed for repeated application in order to cure nails and strengthen the result. Therefore, it is used according to the following scheme:
• 1 time every 7 days for nails with obvious problems,
• 1 time every 14 days, if the defects on the nails are insignificant,
• 1 time every 21 days for the purpose of preventing and improving the health of nails in order to grow them.
When will the result be visible?
After the first use, the effect will be noticeable if there were problems on the nails. To maintain the strengthening effect for a long time, it is recommended to perform 15 such procedures. Moreover, the IBX Duo Pack set is designed for an average of 60 procedures. Since its shelf life is 3 years, this allows it to be reused several times after the nail plate has completely grown out (which takes on average six months).
Don't see the effect?
Some users of the system are outraged that they do not see results on their nails even after several procedures. Why is this possible:
1. The technology for applying the drugs was not followed.
2. You have nail diseases such as fungus, psoriasis or mold. The system does not provide drug treatment for these nail problems.
3. Nails with severe deformations, grooves and depressions will not be corrected by the IBX system. They are shown gel extensions.
4. If nail problems are caused by medications, stress, hormonal imbalances, bad habits, then IBX will not cure them, since it is not a drug.
Do I need to remove the IBX coating?
Of course not. Firstly, the system is absorbed deep into the structure of the nail so that on its surface you will not see any traces other than an improved and healthier appearance of the nails themselves. Secondly, why even remove the product you use to strengthen it?
Common mistakes when using IBX
• When performing IBX coating, there should be no excess moisture on the nails. It interferes with the deep action of the product and reduces its effectiveness.
• No other strengthening agents should be applied over IBX as their interactions have not been studied. You may do this only at your own risk. This recommendation does not apply to cuticle products, gel polish, or nail extensions.
• The brush of both products must be thoroughly squeezed onto the neck of the bottle before use. The preparations are quite liquid and can flow when applied in a thick layer, thereby causing a negative reaction on the skin. If you feel a burning sensation, the procedure should be paused.
• Do not overheat your nails when drying; keep the hairdryer at a distance of at least 20 cm. The hot air will not absorb the product, but will simply evaporate!
• Do not use the system more often than indicated in the instructions - this will not help strengthen your nails faster. On the contrary, it can cause some problems (such as cracked and brittle nails). After every 15 procedures, be sure to take a break until the nail plate is completely renewed.
Use during pregnancy
It’s up to you to decide, but it is still recommended to check with your doctor, who should study its composition. There are also age restrictions: the nail plate continues to form until the age of 14, so there is little point in using IBX before that.
BASE & IBX BOOST
The Base & IBX Boost set is an addition to the IBX system. It has no therapeutic effect; it is a coating that smoothes and protects the nail plates. Can be used immediately after using IB X or independently, before any manicure services.
- BOOST BASE fills grooves on the surface of the nail plate, smoothes and levels it;
- BOOST forms a durable protective layer over the base.
Effect:
- absence of irregularities, depressions and bulges;
- reliable protection for nails, extending the life of gel polish.
How to use Base & IBX Boost:
- Perform a manicure and degrease the nail surface.
- Apply a layer of Boost Base from a black bottle and hold your hands for 1 minute in an LED or UV lamp.
- Remove the dispersion layer with a napkin.
- Apply Boost gel from a round jar.
- After this, you can use gel polish or do not apply anything else.
Volume: 15 ml Boost Base, and 16.5 g IBX Boost. The price of the product on the Russian market is from 2,999 rubles.
Analogue
The Russian product SSN – System Strengthen Nails from the Rio Profi company – is a restorative laminating complex. It is also a two-phase system in which two components operate in series:
- SSN ULTRASCAPE – primer coupling;
- SSN REPAIR is a sealing compound.
SSN vs. IBX:
- SSN contains no organic oils;
- polymerization is possible only using UV rays;
- has an unpleasant pungent odor;
- lower cost - 800 rubles per set.
More about similar products for the care and treatment of nails:
Nail lamination - procedure and review of products
How often to do a restorative procedure
The frequency of the event depends on the goals you want to achieve and the initial condition of the nails. So, if they are weak and flaking, or only after removing the extensions, then the procedure should be performed once a week. If the damage is minor or the nail has already partially recovered, then you can increase the time between sessions to two weeks. If the nails are in normal condition and the system is used only to accelerate their growth, then application should be done once every three weeks.
Answers on questions
- How often should I perform the restoration and strengthening procedure using the IBX system?
You should do it at least three times to see the result. For complex injuries, 12 to 15 recovery sessions will be required.
- Is the IBX System suitable for men?
Of course it is suitable: after using the drug, no visible coating remains on the outer surface of the nails, the plates have a natural color and natural matte finish.
- How many procedures is enough for one set?
The two-component complex is enough for at least 100 applications.
- Do I need to remove IBX from nails and how to do it?
The product is not removed from the surface of the plate, as it is embedded deep inside it. The effect of the system will end when the treated part of the nail grows along with the active substance.
- After the first use of the IBX system, white spots appeared on the nails. What does it mean?
Most likely, the application technology was violated. It is very important to comply with all conditions: heating time and temperature, what lamps are used, blotting with a dry cloth or sponge before polymerization is mandatory.
- Fake and original - how to distinguish?
You can recognize a counterfeit by its smell - a fake product has an unpleasant, ammonia-like smell, and may also have a cloudy tint.
Pros and cons of the nail strengthening system
This nail restoration system has a number of undeniable advantages, which largely explain its popularity:
- the result is noticeable after the first procedure, the nails become stronger and look healthier;
- thanks to deep penetration into the nail tissue, restoration is more effective;
- areas of delamination, white spots and grooves on the plates become less pronounced;
- nail growth is activated, and they stop breaking too much;
- the effect is long-term, and if the event is carried out continuously with a certain frequency, it remains permanently;
- Harmful and dangerous substances are excluded from the product composition, so this system can be used even while carrying a child.
The coating can also be applied under varnish, in which case it will additionally perform a protective function.
The disadvantages of the IBX system lie primarily in its cost and the cost of the procedure in the salon. Some masters even hide the name of this product so that the client does not have the opportunity to purchase it for his own use and visits the salon constantly, making sure of the real effect of the event. Also, to carry out the strengthening procedure, you cannot do without an ultraviolet lamp, which is an additional difficulty if you want to use the coating at home.
