Manhattan, NYC

Nail Tech School in NYC - Russian Manicure & E-File Training in Manhattan

Precision. Beauty. Confidence.

Hands-on professional nail courses for beginners and working nail
technicians. Small groups, real models, champion-level instruction.

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About Mars Nails School

Mars Nails School in Manhattan, NYC offers intensive, hands-on nail courses for future and practicing nail technicians. You’ll learn modern Russian E-File manicure and pedicure techniques, nail sculpting, and salon-ready hygiene standards so you can work confidently with paying clients in New York.

Key facts: Manhattan (FiDi) location • Small groups • Russian E-File focus • Courses for beginners and advanced nail techs

Start Your Nail Tech Career in NYC

  • Learn in-demand techniques: Russian Manicure, Russian E-File Pedicure, builder and hard gel, nail sculpting, and creative nail art basics - all in a Manhattan studio.
  • Hands-on practice: Work with professional electric files and salon equipment under a medical-grade hygiene protocol, including infection control and recognition of common contraindications.
  • Business insights: Get practical tips on pricing, client retention, and marketing so you can build a loyal, high-end clientele in NYC.
Manicure and Pedicure courses in NYC

Why Train with Mars Nails School

Experience professional nail education that combines championship expertise with hands-on practice

World-Class Instructor

Learn from a multi-time Nailympia champion in sculpting and nail art who regularly competes and judges at international level.

Real Salon Expertise

10+ years of nail industry experience in NYC and abroad condensed into a practical, results-driven curriculum.

Up-to-Date Education

Over 4 years of advanced education and continuous professional training ensure you get current trends and safe, proven techniques.

Small Groups & Mentorship

Limited class sizes mean near one-on-one guidance, instant feedback, and faster skill growth.

Nail Courses in NYC – For Every Level

Our training program supports nail artists at every stage of their career. Whether you’re just starting or already working in a salon, there’s a course designed to move you to the next level.

Begin from scratch with our Basic Manicure Course, or, if you already have experience, refine your speed and precision in the Advanced Manicure Course. For those ready to specialize, explore Nail Sculpting and E-File Pedicure.

Basic manicure course NYC – Russian manicure foundations

Basic Manicure Course

Learn the foundations of Russian manicure: sanitation, nail and skin anatomy, cuticle prep, gel overlay, and safe drill use.

Level: Beginner
Duration: 3 Days
Advanced Russian manicure training in NYC

Advanced Manicure Course

Upgrade and refine your Russian E-File manicure technique with deeper work on cuticles, shapes, speed, and long-lasting gel application.

Level: Advanced
Duration: 1+ Days
Nail extension sculpting course in New York

Gel Nail Extensions

Learn to create customized gel extensions: forms, shapes, and lengths tailored to different clients and nail types.

Level: Advanced
Duration: 2 Days
E-File Pedicure course in NYC

Pedicure Course

E-File Pedicure basics: safe cuticle cleaning, callus reduction with the drill, and flawless gel polish application on toes.

Level: Beginner
Duration: 2 Days

For experienced nail professionals: Adding Russian E-File and sculpting techniques can set you apart from local competition and significantly increase your income. In NYC, clients often pay $100+ for a single Russian manicure, reflecting the premium value of these skills – mastering them can help you confidently charge top dollar.

Why E-File Manicure & Pedicure Beat Traditional Soaking

Working on dry nails with an e-file gives nail technicians precision and consistency that is difficult to achieve after water soaking. Without water, the skin does not swell, cuticle pockets stay clearly visible, and calluses can be safely reduced layer by layer. This protects the natural nail and skin, speeds up services, and improves gel adhesion (no shrinking of water-swollen nails that leads to chipping).

  • No water = improved hygiene: better visibility, minimal risk of spreading bacteria or fungus from soaking tubs, and faster cleanup/sterilization between clients.
  • Cleaner cuticle work: working dry lets you gently open the cuticle pocket and tuck color neatly under the cuticle line without micro-cuts, so polish grows out beautifully.
  • Controlled callus reduction: e-file techniques replace harsh blades and aggressive scraping, reducing calluses gradually and safely with less risk of cracks or cuts.
Russian manicure training – hands-on practice in NYC Nail tech students practicing e-file manicure Gel application under the cuticle – class demonstration
Nail classes for every level in New York city

What's Included in Every Course

Our comprehensive training programs include everything you need to succeed as a professional nail technician. No hidden costs or additional fees.

  • Small groups (maximum 2-4 students)
  • Real models for hands-on practice
  • All tools and materials provided
  • Medical-grade hygiene protocols
  • Nail art basics and design techniques
  • Certificate of Mastery upon completion
  • Career and pricing guidance

Certificate vs. NY State License

Understanding the difference between our training certificate and state licensing requirements

Mars Nails Certificate of Mastery

Our Certificate of Mastery demonstrates your completion of professional training in Russian E-File techniques and modern nail care methods.

  • Validates your technical skills and knowledge
  • Recognized by industry professionals
  • Shows commitment to premium nail education
  • Can enhance your credibility and portfolio

New York State Nail Specialty License

To legally work as a nail technician in New York State, you must obtain a state-issued Nail Specialty License through an approved cosmetology school.

  • Required for legal practice in New York
  • Issued by NYS Division of Licensing Services
  • Requires 250 hours at approved school
  • Includes state board examination
State License Requirements ↗

Important: Mars Nails School courses are designed for skill enhancement and professional development. While our training prepares you for excellence in nail artistry, state licensing requires enrollment in an approved cosmetology school program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our nail training programs

Who are these nail courses in NYC best for?

We teach complete beginners who want to start a nail tech career, as well as working nail technicians who want to upgrade to Russian E-File techniques, sculpting, and pedicure for a more premium client base.

How long are the courses?

The Basic Manicure Course runs for 3 days, the Advanced Manicure Course is 1+ days depending on your level, the Sculpting course is 2 days, and the Pedicure course is typically 2 days.

Do I need experience to enroll?

No. Beginners can start with the Basic Manicure or Pedicure course. If you already work as a nail tech, you can choose the Advanced Manicure or Sculpting courses to upgrade existing skills.

Will these courses alone give me a New York nail license?

No. Our courses provide a private Certificate of Mastery. To legally work as a nail specialist in New York, you must also apply for and receive the official New York State Nail Specialty license from the state.

What makes Russian E-File different?

Russian E-File focuses on dry work with an electric file, allowing for precise cuticle cleaning, cleaner polish application under the cuticle, longer-lasting gel wear, and safer callus reduction compared to traditional soaking methods.

Ready to Enroll?

Take the first step toward a new nail career in New York City. Fill out the short form below, and our team will reach out within 24 hours to confirm available dates and help you choose the best course for your level.