Level 4 Advanced Beauty Therapy

This unit is about developing an understanding relating to the chemistry of products used in the hair and beauty sector through theoretical research.  You will explore the chemistry of active ingredients, the effects and safe use of active ingredients, the properties of packaging materials in relation to their structure, the properties and effects of ultra-violet radiation on hair and beauty products and their packaging materials.

This unit is underpinned by both health and safety working practices and the identification of client contra-indications.  This unit is suitable for hairdressers, barbers and beauty therapists.

• You will cover theory to show knowledge and understanding

This is a preparation for work unit which is based on knowledge and understanding.  This unit is about the nature of ageing, causes and effects of ageing on the body systems, and the beauty treatments and products that may delay the ageing process.

• You will cover theory to show knowledge and understanding
• You will complete 1 x multiple choice exam

Through this unit you will develop your management skills in client care within your salon.  You will analyse the client service experience that is on offer in your salon as part of your quality assurance process. You will carry out planned and spot checks, use various methods to gather feedback, recommend improvements, engage your staff with the new improvements and follow through with a monitoring process.  The foundation of a successful business is great client care and if your salon meets your client’s expectations you will have a winning combination. Part of being a good manager is to continually evaluate your own practice and lead by example.  This unit is suitable for hairdressing, barbering, beauty salon, nail salon and spa managers.

• You will cover theory to show knowledge and understanding
• You will complete 1 x practical assessments

This is a preparation for work unit which is based on capability and knowledge. This unit is about dermatology and microbiology. You will develop knowledge about the structures, functions, diseases and disorders of the skin, hair and nails, and factors affecting their growth. You will also culture bacteria and relate this to salon hygiene.  This unit applies to the hair and beauty sector.

• You will cover theory to show knowledge and understanding
• You will complete 3 x practical assessments
• You will complete 1 x multiple choice exam

This unit is about providing micro dermabrasion treatments to improve the appearance and condition of the skin on the face and body. To carry out this unit you will need to maintain effective health, safety and hygiene procedures throughout your work.

• You will cover theory to show knowledge and understanding
• You will complete 3 x practical assessments
• You will complete 1 x multiple choice exam

This unit is about reducing hair growth using intense light and laser systems. You will need to have knowledge of safe working practice and controlling hazards in the salon.  You will be able to identify hair and skin conditions and those clients suitable for laser and light system treatments.  To carry out this unit you will need to maintain effective health, safety and hygiene procedures throughout your work.

• You will cover theory to show knowledge and understanding
• You will complete 3 x practical assessments

This unit is about using intense light and laser systems for photo-rejuvenation of the skin.  The knowledge and skills gained in this unit include preparing for and providing laser and intense pulsed light treatment to treat skin imperfections including telangiectasia, spider naevi blood spots, fine lines, photo ageing, uneven pigmentation, colour and texture on the face, neck, chest, hands and other body areas with lesions suitable for treatment.  You will need to have knowledge of safe working practice and controlling hazards in the salon. You will be able to identify skin conditions and those clients suitable for intense light and laser system treatments.

• You will cover theory to show knowledge and understanding
• You will complete 3 x practical assessments

This unit provides you with the opportunity to plan and monitor the management of staff, products and services in your salon.  You will develop management skills to enable you to:

• provide clear recommendations for the improvement of working practices
• assess employee requirements
• conform with legislation
• allocate staff to meet operational objectives
• review and/or produce salon policies and procedures
• monitor work practices
• manage the salon in a professional manner.

Part of being a good manager is to regularly evaluate your own communication and management style.  This unit is suitable for staff working in the hair and beauty sector.

• You will cover theory to show knowledge and understanding
• You will complete 3 x practical assessments

This unit is about public relations (PR) and the impact it has on the hair and beauty sector. 

Through this unit you will develop your PR skills by, conducting a campaign, investigating the role of a PR officer, exploring the advantages and disadvantages of activities, researching into current trends and evaluating the link between a successful PR event with benefits to your business. 

This unit is suitable for staff working in a hairdressing, barbering and beauty salons.

• You will cover theory to show knowledge and understanding

• Through a range of classroom work activities
• Through completion of theory tasks and work study completed on the learning portal
• Through completion of practical treatment assessments
• Through completion of written assignments
• Through multiple choice exams
• Group work activities

• Study an additional Level 4 course in a different area in beauty or progress onto an advanced Level 5 course 
• Potential self-employment as a beauty therapist 
• Potential employment within a salon as a Senior Therapist or Manager
• Employment as a Beauty Assessor (Teacher)

• Arrange your own work experience at a local salon (approximately 30 hours to be completed over the course programme)