Builder Gel and Hard Gel Combined: One Full Day Intensive Course
Must be qualified in Gel Polish, level 2 Nail Technology or Level 2 Beauty Therapy. Alternatively, students may book this course alongside a Gel Polish course, provided the Gel Polish course date is scheduled before this course.
Perfect for nail technicians who want to qualify in both BIAB and Hard Gel systems. If you're already qualified in BIAB and are looking to gain accreditation in Hard Gel, this course is also suitable, with your training focused solely on the Hard Gel system.
The nail industry is booming—but with that growth comes a wave of confusing and often overwhelming product choices. From base coats to rubber bases, builder gels (commonly known as BIAB), hard gels, soak-off to non-soak-off options, and gels packaged in bottles or pots—it’s easy to feel lost in a saturated market where every brand uses different names for seemingly similar products.
This course cuts through the noise. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the true chemistry and composition behind gel systems, helping you make smarter, more prescriptive decisions tailored to your clients’ nail types and needs. Because when it comes to nail care, one product does not suit all.
You’ll master the science of viscosity, learning how different textures and formulations impact performance, durability, and suitability for various nail conditions. Whether your client is a regular gel polish wearer needing extra support, someone with retention issues using Builder Gel, or looking for longer, stronger enhancements—you’ll know exactly which system to choose and why.
In addition to understanding the systems, this course also provides accredited, hands-on training in the safe and effective application of both Builder Gel and Hard Gel. You’ll develop the confidence and technical ability to:
✔ Prescribe the right base coats for natural nail wearers or regular gel polish users.
✔ Use Builder Gels of different viscosities for clients needing additional support or growing their natural nails.
✔ Introduce Hard Gel for clients experiencing breakdown with Builder gel, those needing stronger support for longer nails, or looking for instant enhancements and nail repairs.
By the end, you’ll not only be able to navigate the confusing product landscape with clarity, but also deliver superior, tailored results for every client—enhancing your reputation, service quality, and business success.
This one-day accredited intensive course is perfect for qualified Gel Polish technicians looking to elevate their skills, as well as those already trained in Builder Gel who may be lacking confidence in their application or feeling overwhelmed by the saturated market and vast range of products available. You will also gain practical skills and knowledge in the Hard Gel system, expanding your service offerings. This course is ideal for technicians who want to stand out in a competitive industry by delivering high-performance services that are both efficient and results-driven.
What You’ll Learn:
- In-depth theory, including anatomy and physiology, and essential product chemistry to ensure safe and effective service delivery.
- Understanding products: the nail industry can be overwhelming with the variety of base coats, builder gels, and hard gels available. You'll learn the true science behind viscosity and product composition so you can make confident, informed choices about which products are best suited for your clients' specific needs.
- Advanced application techniques for Builder Gel overlays, including secret methods that eliminate the need for refinement—saving you time and increasing your earning potential.
- How to enhance and create durable extensions using hard gel—for clients needing stronger support than Builder gel or those wanting instant length.
- The importance of correct structure, shaping, and refinement to ensure strength, longevity, and mastering finish.
- How to recognise and troubleshoot retention issues, helping you provide real results for your clients—and in turn, grow a strong, loyal client base.
These advanced skills will not only refine your craft but also help establish you as a high-level technician with in-demand services, boosting both your confidence and your business success.
Course content:
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Product Chemistry
- Gel science
- Client prep
- Builder Gel Overlay (refine-free application)
- Hard Gel overlay
- Tip application to create extensions
- Shaping
- Refining
- Infilling
- Soak-Off
- Business Support & Guidance
Dates
If your chosen course has no available dates listed or is currently fully booked, please email to express your interest and we’ll be happy to arrange a date for you.
Course Location
Beacon Park, Plymouth
Course duration
9AM – 4PM (Please note: the course may run slightly over or finish earlier)
Prerequisite
You must hold a valid certificate in one of the following:
- Gel Polish
- NVQ Level 2 Beauty Therapy
- NVQ Level 2 Nail Technology
All students must be aged 16 years or over to attend this course.
Model Requirements
No model is needed. You’ll be practicing on your own nails, so please arrive with bare nails—no gel polish, or enhancements.
Kit
This course does not include a take-home kit, but all tools and products will be provided for use on the day. As an independent, non-brand-specific academy, you'll get the advantage of trying a variety of professional brands and their curing lamps. This helps you make a well-informed decision about which products you'd like to invest in after your training.
Theory & Pre-Course Information
Upon booking your course, you will receive your course information and theory material—please allow a few days for this to arrive.
The academy ensures the highest quality of training in both theory and practical application, so it’s important to come prepared. Please take the time to read through your theory and become familiar with the content. It should only take a couple of hours and serves as a great head start before your training day. Reading your theory in advance gives you a solid foundation and allows us to focus more time on practical, hands-on learning during the course.
The theory will also be taught in class using a combination of visual aids, videos, real-life tools, and whiteboard explanations, all designed to help you absorb the material easily and build confidence in your new knowledge.
Course cost
£170
No kit purchase is required prior to training, helping to keep your initial training costs low while allowing you to focus on developing your skills first.
Payment
Full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your place. Please note that all payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. We kindly ask that you review our Terms & Conditions at Kirsty Parker before purchasing a course.
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Klarna’s Pay in 3 instalments credit agreements are not regulated by the FCA. Use of these and any missed payments may affect your ability to obtain credit from Klarna and other lenders." 18+, UK residents only. Subject to status. T&Cs apply.
Additional information
| Dates | Mon 27th July, Mon 10th Aug, Mon 7th Sept, Mon 5th Oct |
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