Best Acrylic Nail Courses: Top Tips to Help You Choose the Right Course

There are a number of things you should keep in mind when choosing the best acrylic nail courses. The most important thing is to check whether the course you’re interested in is recognized by a well known accrediting body. You’ll also have the option of choosing between certificate or diploma courses. The length of study and the type of training you need should be considered as well. There are also correspondence or home study courses available.

Finding the best acrylic nail courses will often mean looking for courses that are recognized and fully accredited. Depending on your location, you may also need to get licensed before you’re able to work in the industry, and in this case an accredited course is a must. Nail technicians in the United States need to be licensed by a state cosmetology board before they are able to work legally, so you’ll have to go to an approved school or attend training courses at an approved facility. Taking accredited courses may also give you a head start when seeking employment. Many potential employers prefer nail technicians who have completed courses that are accredited and internationally recognized. Some of the most well-known accrediting bodies include NACCAS, BABTAC, and ITEC.

The type of acrylic nail courses you consider will ultimately determine your success within the industry, so you should really think about the level of training you need to succeed. Short courses can be done quickly but will only earn you a certificate once you pass training. A certificate could get you a foot in the door in an entry-level job. You may also be able to combine various short courses or certificate courses to qualify for a diploma.

There are also two types of acrylic nail courses and you’ll have to choose between these. Basic courses are best suited to beginners while advanced courses are there to help professionals further their skills and knowledge. The best place to start is with a basic acrylic nail course, and to then take advanced classes in things like nail maintenance or nail art.

The length of study is important as well and you should ask yourself how much time you have to complete a course. If you’re on a tight schedule or already working, you may have to opt for a short course because these generally run over a day or two. The downside is that you will have to attend the classes in person, because a lot of the training focuses on one-on-one instruction. You could also choose correspondence courses and complete the course over a period of a few weeks. Full time courses are by far the most preferred method if you want to improve your prospects as a nail technician. These courses take far longer to complete, but the training is considered to be of a much higher standard.

It’s best to remember that the best acrylic nail courses are often taught in person. Correspondence courses may teach you the basics, but since it’s such a practical line of work, having the guidance of a trained instructor may give you a real edge eventually. Assessment is usually done through practice nails that you send in via the mail, rather than in person observation, so it’s easier for an instructor to pick up on any mistakes you make while you’re busy working on the nails. Correspondence courses should only be considered if you really cannot travel to attend short courses or enter full time study. It’s a step up, but doesn’t offer the benefits of full time or in-person training.