Behind the Formula: TGB’s Quality, Safety and Innovation with Ifra Siddique at The GelBottle Inc
At The GelBottle Inc™, what goes into the bottle matters just as much as what comes out of it. In a world where quality, safety, and ethics are non-negotiables, the work of our compliance and product development team is at the core of every innovation we launch.
In this exclusive behind-the-scenes conversation, we sat down with Ifra, our Compliance Director and in-house formulation expert, to uncover the science, strategy, and strict standards behind TGB’s award-winning products. With over a decade of experience in the beauty industry — spanning innovation, formulation and regulatory compliance — Ifra brings a voice of authority to what makes TGB truly different.
From our original BIAB™ (Builder in a Bottle™) breakthrough to our HEMA-Free innovations and PETA-certified cruelty-free commitment, this is where product performance meets purpose. If you've ever asked “Why switch to TGB?” — this is your answer.
Q&A with Ifra, Compliance Director at The GelBottle Inc
Q: Could you share your background and explain your role in compliance at TGB?
I have a degree in BSc Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science and over 13 years of experience across scientific, innovation, and compliance roles within the beauty industry. At TGB, I lead on product compliance and formulation, ensuring everything we create meets stringent global standards — from raw material selection and formulation, through to testing, certification and market launch. I also play a key role in product development, helping to guide innovations that are not only cutting-edge but also safe, ethical and fully compliant.
Q: How does TGB integrate comprehensive compliance into its product development process to ensure both quality and safety?
Compliance isn’t an afterthought at TGB — it’s embedded from day one. Every product undergoes a rigorous development cycle, starting with ingredient review and safety assessments, followed by stability and compatibility testing. We then carry out independent safety testing to meet EU, UK and global standards, including CPSR and toxicological reports. This robust framework allows us to maintain the highest levels of quality and client trust.
Q: What are some of the key technical credentials and innovations that set TGB apart in the market?
TGB is proud to be the original creator of BIAB™ (Builder in a Bottle™) — a revolutionary formula that redefined builder gels in the professional nail industry. Our BIAB™ range was the first of its kind and remains the gold standard thanks to its durability, self-levelling texture, and ability to promote natural nail growth without the need for primers or excessive filing.
Innovation at TGB is always backed by evidence. Every new product undergoes rigorous internal testing as well as real-world user trials with professional nail techs before launch. This allows us to fine-tune formulas based on real feedback, ensuring they not only meet technical and regulatory standards but also perform flawlessly in salons.
Our HEMA-Free formulas, sculpting gels, and high-pigment colours are just a few examples of how we lead through both scientific development and industry collaboration, setting the benchmark for performance, safety and trust.
Q: How does TGB integrate ethical sourcing, PETA certifications, and cruelty-free practices into the overall compliance framework?
Ethics are integral to our compliance model. We’re proud to be PETA-certified and a part of the Vegan Society, ensuring that none of our products or ingredients are ever tested on animals. All suppliers must sign our Code of Conduct, guaranteeing responsible sourcing, and we carry out audits and traceability checks as part of our internal quality assurance. Compliance for us is about performance, safety and doing what’s right.
Q: How does TGB establish its leadership in the nail industry?
Our leadership stems from consistently delivering high-performance, safe and trend-led products that professionals can trust. Our partnerships with salons, educators and technicians also inform our development process — we listen and respond to their needs, which helps us stay at the forefront of the industry.
Q: What distinguishes TGB’s product line from competitors, and how does this justify the switch for industry partners?
Professionals choose TGB for quality that they can see and feel — superior wear, easy application, and reduced risk of sensitivity thanks to our HEMA-Free innovations. Switching to TGB often means fewer service breakdowns, better results for clients, and peace of mind for techs who want both style and substance. We’ve had countless salons report increased retention and client satisfaction since making the switch, especially with our BIAB™ range.
Q: Are there any upcoming initiatives or future plans that further reinforce TGB’s commitment to quality and market leadership?
Absolutely — we’re investing heavily in both R&D and international compliance as we grow globally. This includes expanding our offering, strengthening post-market surveillance, and developing even more advanced formulations. We’re also working on new sustainability and traceability initiatives, with exciting launches planned that reflect our long-term commitment to ethical innovation and technical excellence.
Conclusion: Why Nail Techs Trust TGB — And Why the Industry Follows
Behind every best-selling TGB product is more than a great formula — there’s compliance you can count on, science-backed performance, and a commitment to raising the bar for professional nail systems globally.
Ifra’s insights remind us that trust is built in the lab before it’s earned in the salon. With ongoing investment in R&D, ethical sourcing, technical testing, and global compliance, TGB doesn’t just follow industry standards — we help define them. For nail techs and salon owners seeking quality without compromise, it’s clear: this is why the switch to TGB isn’t just smart, it’s essential.
Switch to TGB Today
Ready to switch to the UK’s #1 professional nail brand? We’ve made levelling up your business a breeze with our curated Switch Packages. Save up to 37% and get everything you need to succeed, plus receive over £900 in free products and expert training!* Explore five tailored kits designed to help you upgrade your salon selection, or contact our dedicated customer service team to create your own custom package. Plus, with our Bottle Swap initiative, you can receive up to £400 in TGB credit.