Gel nail course - Beginner to Advanced
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Master the most in-demand technique in the nail industry
Want to learn how to create stunning gel nails, even if you’re starting from scratch? This course was made for you. One of the most comprehensive and loved programs in the industry, it guides you step by step: from prepping the natural nail to building modern, long-lasting structures, and mastering advanced gel and nail art techniques.
Structured over two progressive levels, this course is perfect for total beginners and for those who’ve tried other courses but still feel uncertain or unsatisfied. With over 80 hours of in-depth lessons, unlimited lifetime access, and a final assessment that earns you a certificate recognized across Europe, you’ll have everything you need to turn your passion into a real career. On your schedule, at your pace.
- Last updated on June 10, 2026
What you’ll learn in the gel nail course
- Level 1: the basics of gel nail extensions. A solid foundation for absolute beginners or anyone who wants to revisit the core techniques with clarity and confidence. You’ll get hands-on with everything from nail anatomy to your first complete reconstructions.
- Nail anatomy and working safely.
- Setting up your workspace and essential tools.
- Prepping the natural nail.
- Gel overlays and extensions using forms and tips.
- Filing and shaping techniques.
- Applying colour and top coat.
- Gel removal without damaging the nail. By the end of this level, you’ll feel ready to work on real nails with confidence.
- Level 2: advanced techniques and trendy shapesNow it’s time to refine your skills. This level focuses on creating slim, salon-worthy shapes and keeping up with modern nail trends. You’ll study advanced techniques like the "Modern square" and the "Classic almond", perfect your form placement, and take your finishing work to the next level.
- How to sculpt the “Modern square” shape.
- Reconstructing the “Almond” shape using nail forms.
- Advanced colour application and top coat techniques.
- Finishing details for that flawless, professional look.
- Customizing shapes to match your client’s natural nails.
- This course will give you everything you need to work confidently and professionally with gel nails: from the theory to the tools to the hands-on techniques. You’ll be able to: • reconstruct and shape all popular nail styles. • Fix flaws, avoid product build-up, and sculpt elegant, balanced nails. • Adapt each treatment to your client’s needs. • Offer high-quality gel services from home or in a salon.
Chapters and lessons
Nail anatomy
- Lesson #1 - 37min
Tools
- Lesson #2 - 24min
Nail prep
- Lesson #3 - 17min
Nail coverage
- Lesson #4 - 27min
Nail form application
- Lesson #5 - 39min
Nail form reconstruction
- Lesson #6 - 47min
Nail tip method
- Lesson #7 - 17min
Filing
- Lesson #8 - 32min
Color and Top Coat
- Lesson #9 - 12min
Theory - Modern Square Shape & The High Point
- Lesson #10 - 37min
Practice - The Modern Square Shape
- Lesson #11 - 41min
Practice - Almond Shape
- Lesson #12 - 34min
Your certificate + full support along the way
When you’ve completed the course, you can take the final practical assessment. Once you pass, you’ll receive your official IPHM-accredited certificate, valid across Europe. And don’t worry, you can retake the exam as many times as you need.
During your assessment, you’ll receive personalized feedback from our instructors to help you refine your technique and feel fully prepared.
Need help during the course? You’ll have full access to our expert teaching team for questions and support, as well as the BeautyLearn student community.
How long does it take?
The course includes 15 modules, designed to help you learn at your own pace. There are no deadlines. Watch the lessons whenever you have time, and come back to them anytime. You’ll have lifetime access to all content, so you can keep learning and practicing as often as you like.
Recommended materials
To get the most from the practical lessons, we recommend having:
- Cuticle pusher, file, buffer.
- Dust removal brush.
- Primer, gel base, and hydroalcoholic prep.
- Clear builder gel and coloured gels.
- Gel brush.
- Nail forms, scissors, pinching tool.
- Top coat, cleanser, cuticle oil.
- Cotton pads or tissues.
- LED/UV lamp.
Once certified, you’ll be ready to start working as a freelance nail tech, join a salon, or even open your own studio. You’ll have the technical skills, theoretical background, and real-world practice to step confidently into the industry.
Ready to turn your passion into a profession? Enrol today and take the first real step toward building a successful career in the nail industry with BeautyLearn by your side.