So You Want to Learn Acrylic Nails?

If you've ever admired a perfect set of acrylic nails and thought, “I’d love to learn how to do that,” you’re in the right place. Acrylic nails are more than just a beauty trend — they’re an art form, a business opportunity, and for many, a fulfilling personal skill.

Whether you're looking for a new career path, a side hustle, or a hobby with serious wow-factor, learning acrylic nails could be your next best move.

Here’s everything you need to know — and how you can get started today with Essential Nails, one of the UK’s most trusted names in nail training.

Why Learn Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are one of the most requested services in UK salons — and for good reason. They're strong, stylish, and can be customised endlessly. Plus, they’re a staple for anyone looking to offer professional nail services.

Open doors to working in salons, at home, or freelance
Help you build a flexible income, part- or full-time
Offer creative freedom through design and art
Help you save money on salon visits
Turn a personal passion into a thriving business

For women aged 20–45, this can be a real game-changer — especially if you're craving flexibility, creativity, or a career shift.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are created by mixing a liquid monomer with a powder polymer to form a pliable substance that hardens when exposed to air. This mixture is applied to the natural nail or a tip, then shaped, buffed, and painted.

Once set, acrylic nails are incredibly durable — ideal for everyday wear and elaborate nail art alike.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Starting out requires a few essential tools and products. Here’s a quick list to get you going:

Acrylic liquid (monomer) and powder
Nail tips or nail forms
An acrylic nail brush (size 8–10 is great for beginners)
Nail glue, file, buffer, and dappen dish
Dehydrator and primer
Cuticle tools
A top coat or gel polish (optional)

This might sound like a lot, but don’t worry — when you choose a training provider like Essential Nails, much of what you need comes in a professional-grade kit, delivered straight to your door.

Learning Acrylic Nails with Essential Nails

If you're serious about learning properly — whether for personal or professional use — a good course is essential. That’s where Essential Nails shines.

As a leading UK-based provider, Essential Nails has helped thousands of aspiring nail techs start successful careers from the comfort of their own homes. Their Acrylic Nail Diploma Course is perfect for beginners and designed to give you everything you need to succeed.

What makes Essential Nails stand out:

Courses are Beauty Guild accredited and insurable
Full professional kits are included
Work at your own pace, from home
Get real tutor support throughout
Includes the Nail Trainer® hand — the most realistic training hand in the industry

?️ The Nail Trainer® is a game-changing practice tool. With fully jointed fingers and replaceable nails, it lets you practise acrylic application, shaping, and filing just like on a real client — without needing a live model.

Once you complete your course and submit your practical work, you’ll receive a diploma that qualifies you for insurance and sets you up to work with paying clients.

Practice Makes Progress

Let’s be honest — your first few sets won’t be perfect, and that’s okay. Every nail tech starts somewhere, and progress comes with practice. The Nail Trainer® gives you the freedom to practise as often as you like, without pressure.

Take your time, practise regularly, and be kind to yourself. Confidence and skill grow with each set.

Nail Art: Where Creativity Shines

Once you’ve got the basics down, you can start exploring nail art — the fun part! From glitter and foils to ombré, marbling, and crystals, the creative possibilities are endless.

Essential Nails offers additional courses in Nail Art and Gel Polish Design, perfect for building on your skills and keeping up with trends. You’ll be amazed how quickly your work evolves.

Pro tip: Start sharing your nail sets on social media to build a portfolio and attract potential clients (or just show off your progress!).

Do You Need Insurance or a Licence?

In the UK, you don’t need a government licence to become a nail tech. But if you’re working on clients — even from home — you will need:

A recognised qualification (like an Essential Nails diploma)
Public liability insurance

Once qualified, you can get affordable insurance through a provider such as The Beauty Guild.

Some local authorities require you to have a ‘Special Treatment Licence’ to work from home or a salon. It's always recommended to check the requirements in your area.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Nail Journey Today

Learning acrylic nails is a smart move — whether you’re pursuing a career, side hustle, or personal passion. With the right tools, expert guidance, and time to practise, you’ll be creating beautiful sets in no time.

Essential Nails gives you everything you need in one package: a complete kit, accredited training, tutor support, and the industry-renowned Nail Trainer®.

So if you’re ready to build a new skill (and maybe even a new business), this is your sign. Your acrylic nail journey starts now — and it starts with Essential Nails.

Explore Essential Nails Courses Today
Visit www.essentialnails.com and discover the perfect course to get started.