BIAB — short for Builder in a Bottle — is one of the biggest trends shaping the UK nail industry. Known for its strength, flexibility, and natural finish, BIAB has become a core service for salons and mobile techs alike.
With so many clients now asking for BIAB, nail professionals are looking for the best ways to master it. Luckily, you do not have to attend an in-person class — there are excellent BIAB courses available online. In this guide, we compare some of the best BIAB online training options for 2025.
1. Artistic Touch – BIAB Masterclass (UK)
- Led by Nail Expert Master Radina Ignatova.
- Designed to teach not only application but also problem-solving — tackling lifting, retention, and common salon issues.
- Premium online format with lifetime access, immediate enrolment, and free updates.
- Certificate of completion included.
- Expansion into ABT-accredited BIAB courses planned for the near future.
👉 Explore: Artistic Touch BIAB Masterclass
2. HONA – Builder Gel Beginners Course
- ABT-accredited.
- Covers natural nail overlays and builder techniques.
- Kits available separately.
3. Glitterbels – Builder Gel Training
- ABT-accredited, delivered via Zoom.
- Teaches builder gel overlays step by step.
- Finance plans available for flexibility.
4. Halo Nail Academy – Builder Gel Modules
- Based in Canada but open to UK learners.
- Modules start at affordable prices (~£22).
- Includes tutor support and lifetime access.
5. New Skills Academy – Builder Gel Essentials
- Budget-friendly entry point.
- Introduces builder gel application and safe nail prep.
- Lifetime access once purchased.
Quick Comparison
| Provider | Format | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Artistic Touch (UK) | Premium online | Problem-solving focus + lifetime updates |
| HONA | Accredited | ABT-recognised beginner course |
| Glitterbels | Zoom-based | Accredited training with finance options |
| Halo Nail Academy | Online global | Low-cost builder gel modules |
| New Skills Academy | Self-paced | Budget BIAB basics |
BIAB Course FAQs
Why is BIAB so popular?
BIAB combines strength and flexibility, making it ideal for natural nail overlays and long-lasting manicures. It has quickly become a salon standard across the UK. For more detail, see our BIAB Nailypedia guide.
Can BIAB really be learned online?
Yes. High-quality online courses, such as the Artistic Touch BIAB Masterclass, provide step-by-step video lessons and troubleshooting guidance that replicate in-person training.
Which BIAB course is best for beginners?
HONA and Glitterbels both offer ABT-accredited starter courses. If you want a deeper dive into BIAB with long-term access, Artistic Touch is a strong option.
What makes Artistic Touch stand out?
While many academies show how to apply BIAB, Artistic Touch goes further by teaching how to solve real salon challenges — from lifting to retention — with techniques built on years of professional experience.
Do these courses include lifetime access?
Artistic Touch, Halo, and New Skills Academy all include lifetime access. Glitterbels and HONA may limit access, so it is worth checking before enrolling.
Stacy Ferguson is a UK-based nail expert, beauty writer, and content creator with years of experience in the professional nail industry. She shares nail care tips, product reviews, and inspiration for aspiring nail technicians, helping them thrive in salons or as home-based nail artists.
