Starting as a nail technician can feel overwhelming with many products and techniques to master. A common question for beginners is: builder gel (also known as BIAB) or gel polish—where should you start? While both have their place in the world of nail artistry, the best starting point for most beginners is gel polish. Here’s why, and how Glitterbels’ nail tech courses can set you on the path to success.
Why Gel Polish is Perfect for Beginners
Gel polish is the ideal entry point for anyone new to nails. It’s simpler to apply than builder gel and doesn’t require advanced sculpting skills. Learning to create flawless gel polish applications helps beginners build confidence in foundational skills such as:
- Preparing the natural nail
- Applying base coats, colour, and top coats
- Achieving smooth, even coverage
Plus, clients love gel polish for its glossy finish and durability, making it a high-demand service in salons. By mastering gel polish first, you’ll gain the expertise to keep your future clients coming back for more.
If you’re ready to kickstart your career, the Gel Polish Complete Beginner Online Course is the perfect place to start. This course will guide you through every step of gel polish application and is accessible from the comfort of your own home. It’s ideal for those looking for a flexible way to learn.
What About Builder Gel?
Builder gel is a fantastic product for creating strength and length in nails, but it requires more advanced techniques, such as sculpting and shaping. While it’s an essential skill for any nail tech, it’s best tackled once you’ve mastered the basics. If you’re curious about builder gel, Glitterbels has a stunning range of builder gels to explore. For beginners, though, it’s better to first focus on simpler techniques like gel polish, which lays a strong foundation for learning advanced skills later.
Why You Should Learn the Full Spectrum of Skills
If you’re a novice looking to become a professional nail tech, mastering just one product isn’t enough. To offer clients various services, you’ll need to learn everything from acrylics to gel extensions, nail art, and health and safety. That’s where the Fast-Track Beginners Classroom Course comes in. This intensive course covers all aspects of becoming a nail tech, including the use of gel polish and acrylics. What’s more, like all of our courses, it’s ABT accredited, ensuring you’ll leave with a recognised qualification that’s highly valued in the industry. Once you have mastered the basics of acrylic and gel polish our our half day builder gel course will allow you to start your journey into Builder Gel mastery.
What Are Acrylic Nails?
Acrylic nails are created by combining a liquid monomer and a powdered polymer to form a mouldable paste. This is applied to the natural nail or a tip to create durable, sculpted extensions. Known for their strength and versatility, acrylics are perfect for dramatic lengths, intricate designs, and long-lasting wear.
Start Your Journey with Glitterbels
Whether you’re looking to specialise in gel polish or take a comprehensive course to learn all the essential skills, Glitterbels has you covered. Beginners often start with gel polish for its simplicity, but if you’re serious about becoming a professional nail technician, the Fast-Track Beginners Classroom Course is your best bet. Explore our full range of courses to find the perfect fit for your goals. Your journey into the nail industry starts here!