If you're deciding between acrylic and builder gel (BIAB) training, the short answer is: it depends on the services you want to offer and the clients you want to attract. Most nail technicians benefit from learning both — but if you're starting out, builder gel is the more versatile starting point for modern Australian clientele.
It's one of the most common questions we hear from students who are about to enrol. Acrylic has been the industry standard for decades. Builder gel — often called BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) — has grown rapidly in popularity and is now one of the most requested nail services in Australia. So which should you train in first, or do you need both?
Let's break it down clearly so you can make the right call for your goals.
What Is Acrylic, and Who Is It For?
Acrylic nails are created by combining a liquid monomer with a powder polymer. The mixture is applied to the nail plate and sculpted before it cures in the air. Acrylic is incredibly strong, long-lasting, and ideal for clients who want dramatic length, structured overlays, or repairs on very damaged nails.
Acrylic is technically demanding. The working time is short, the consistency matters a lot, and the technique takes real practice to master. If you're committed to offering full nail extension services — especially for clients who want long sets — acrylic training gives you a skill that always has demand.
In Australia, acrylics are still requested regularly, particularly for nail art sets, stiletto and coffin shapes, and clients transitioning from gel. Knowing acrylic sets you apart and expands your service menu considerably.
What Is Builder Gel (BIAB), and Why Is It So Popular Right Now?
Builder gel — including the popular BIAB format — is a thicker gel product applied like a gel polish and cured under a UV/LED lamp. It adds strength and structure to the natural nail, making it ideal for overlays and shorter extensions.
BIAB has exploded in popularity because it's gentler on the natural nail, removal is simpler than acrylic, and it appeals to clients who want strong, healthy-looking nails without heavy enhancement. The look is more natural, and it fits perfectly with current nail trends in Australia.
Builder gel is also slightly easier to learn than acrylic for most beginners, which makes it an accessible starting point — especially if you're studying alongside work or family commitments.
Do You Actually Need Both?
If your goal is to build a full nail service menu and take on a wide range of clients, yes — having both systems in your skill set is a significant advantage. Here's why:
- Some clients specifically request acrylic for strength or length
- Some clients prefer builder gel for a more natural result
- Offering both means you don't turn anyone away
- Nail art and advanced techniques often work across both systems
That said, if you're just starting out and want to begin seeing clients quickly, builder gel is a smart first step. You can add acrylic to your menu once you're established.
What Does Bela's Nail Technology Course Cover?
At Bela Beauty College, the Nail Technology Course covers acrylic, gel, and BIAB in one complete programme. You don't have to choose — you learn all three systems together, which means you graduate ready to offer a full nail menu from day one.
The course is completely online and self-paced, so you can study when it suits you. Your kit (available as an optional add-on) is shipped directly to your door — no need to source products yourself.
If you're serious about building a nail business, the Nail Bundle takes it further by combining core nail technology with additional skills so you can confidently serve a wider range of clients and price your services accordingly.
How to Decide: A Simple Framework
Ask yourself these questions:
- What's trending in my area? In most Australian cities and suburbs, BIAB is heavily requested right now. Acrylic is still popular, but BIAB is growing faster.
- What kind of clients do I want? If you want to attract low-maintenance clients who prefer healthier nails, builder gel is a natural fit. If you want clients who love long, dramatic sets, acrylic is essential.
- Do I want to offer nail art? Nail art works beautifully on both systems, so this doesn't change the decision much.
- What's my budget? Training in both at once (via the Nail Technology Course) is more cost-effective than doing two separate courses later.
Ready to Train in Both?
The most successful nail technicians know both systems — and the Nail Technology Course at Bela Beauty College gives you exactly that. You'll learn acrylic, gel, and BIAB in a single, self-paced online programme, with full mentor support and a Bela Beauty College certificate upon completion.
Browse the Nail Bundle if you want to go further and build a complete nail service menu from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is acrylic or builder gel harder to learn?
Acrylic generally has a steeper learning curve because the product sets quickly and consistency is critical. Builder gel is a little more forgiving for beginners, but both are very learnable with the right training and practice.
Which is more popular in Australia right now?
Builder gel and BIAB are extremely popular in Australia at the moment, particularly for clients who want strong but natural-looking nails. Acrylic remains in demand for extensions and dramatic shapes.
Can I learn both at the same time?
Yes — and it's actually the most efficient approach. Bela's Nail Technology Course covers acrylic, gel, and BIAB together so you're trained across all three systems in one study period.
Do I need a licence to do acrylic or builder gel nails in Australia?
Australia does not have state licensing boards for nail technicians in the way the US does. You don't need a government-issued licence to offer nail services. Good training and insurance are the key requirements most clients and insurance providers look for.
What kit do I need for acrylic vs builder gel?
Acrylic requires a monomer liquid, acrylic powder, a Kolinsky brush, and a dust mask. Builder gel requires a UV/LED lamp, the gel product, and prep tools. Bela's course kits include what you need for whichever system you're studying.
Can I get insurance as a nail technician without a government cert?
Yes. Most Australian beauty insurance providers cover nail technicians who hold a private college certificate from a recognised training provider. Always check the specific requirements of the insurer you're applying with.
Is it worth doing the Nail Bundle instead of just one course?
If you want a complete nail service menu and better value for money, the Nail Bundle is worth considering. It gives you broader training at a lower per-course cost than buying individual courses separately.
