Learn why improper nail prep is the main cause of lifting and other common nail issues. In this video, you’ll discover how to push back cuticles correctly, why many beginners are hesitant to do it, and how to protect the perionychium and nail matrix while prepping. You’ll also learn how to scrape away dead cuticle tissue from the nail plate — a critical step to ensure a clean, smooth surface with no barriers, helping your enhancements adhere properly and last longer.

In this lesson, you’ll learn the correct way to buff the nail plate to create a strong foundation for long-lasting enhancements. Discover why a 180 grit hand file is far more effective than a buffer block, how it scuffs the nail to create channels for product adhesion, and why over-smoothing can lead to lifting. You’ll also learn how to handle hand files safely, using a gentle, feather-light touch to avoid damage, and why seasoning your file is essential to prevent cuts.

This video demonstrates the difference between using buffer blocks and a hand file, including a test with isopropyl alcohol to show which prep creates the ideal surface for adhesion. You’ll also understand why nails should have no shine at all before applying enhancements — a key step in ensuring your work lasts longer and stays flawless.

Learn how to safely and effectively remove excess cuticle tissue using cuticle scissors. In this lesson, you’ll discover the proper technique to trim without damaging the nail plate, perionychium, or surrounding skin. You’ll also understand why cutting cuticles correctly is crucial for creating a clean, smooth surface that allows nail enhancements to adhere properly and last longer.

This step-by-step demonstration ensures you can confidently tackle cuticle removal, avoid common mistakes, and build a professional, long-lasting nail prep routine.

In this lesson, you’ll learn how to properly clean and dehydrate nails using isopropyl alcohol and why it’s the preferred choice over acetone. You’ll discover how removing oils and residues creates the perfect surface for nail enhancements and why it’s crucial not to touch the nails after cleaning, as oils from fingers can cause lifting.

You’ll also learn the importance of waiting for nails to fully dry before applying primer or bonder, and the key differences between the two. This lesson explains why bonder is the preferred option, leaving a sticky layer for maximum adhesion, while primer dries chalky and less effective. You’ll see exactly how to apply bonder correctly and give it the right amount of time to achieve the perfect tacky surface for long-lasting enhancements.

By the end of this lesson, you’ll understand how proper cleaning and bonding set the foundation for nails that stay flawless, strong, and durable.

In this final lesson, we recap all the essential nail prep steps covered in the course. You’ll review pushing back cuticles, buffing the nail plate, trimming excess cuticles, and cleaning/dehydrating nails with isopropyl alcohol.

This lesson reinforces the key techniques and common mistakes to avoid, helping you build a repeatable, professional prep routine that works for all nail systems, including gel, BIAB, builder gel, acrylic, dip powder, and polygel. By the end, you’ll have a clear, step-by-step process to ensure your nail enhancements are strong, durable, and long-lasting.

Perfect for quick reference or as a refresher before every set, this recap ties together everything you’ve learned so you can confidently apply your skills in real-world nail work.

Mastering Nail Prep: Nail Prep Checklist

For All Nail Systems: Gel, BIAB, Builder Gel, Acrylic, Dip Powder, Polygel

Step 1: Push Back Cuticles

Gently push cuticles back to the perionychium without damaging the matrix.

Remove dead cuticle tissue from the nail plate.

Ensure nails are clean and free from barriers that could cause lifting.

Step 2: Buff the Nail Plate

Use a 180 grit hand file to lightly scuff the nail surface.

Avoid over-filing or using a sawing motion — use a gentle, feather-like touch.

Do not use buffer blocks for prepping, as they leave nails too smooth.

Check for no shine on the nail plate.

Step 3: Trim Excess Cuticles

Use cuticle scissors to remove any leftover cuticle tissue safely.

Avoid cutting live skin to prevent damage or infection.

Step 4: Clean & Dehydrate Nails

Wipe nails with isopropyl alcohol to remove oils and debris.

Do not touch nails after cleaning — oils from fingers can cause lifting.

Allow nails to fully dry before applying bonder.

Step 5: Apply Bonder

Apply a thin layer of bonder (preferred over primer).

Wait 15–20 seconds until tacky, not wet, before applying enhancements.

Ensure sticky layer is consistent across all nails for optimal adhesion.

Step 6: Final Check

Ensure all nails are properly prepped: cuticles pushed, nail plate scuffed, clean, dry, and bonder applied.

Double-check that no shine or oils remain on the nail surface.

? Tip: Follow this checklist for every client to guarantee strong, durable, and long-lasting nails every time.