VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Needling

Students should have completed a Level 3 beauty related qualification prior to undertaking this qualification, for example Level 3 Beauty Therapy or Level 3 Access to Aesthetics (both courses available at York College).

The VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Needling comprises four mandatory units, each designed to provide learners with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in advanced skin needling treatments:

1. Principles and Practice of Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies: This unit covers the foundational aspects of non-medical aesthetic treatments, including industry regulations, health and safety protocols, and professional standards.
2. Advanced Consultation for Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies: Learners develop skills in conducting thorough client consultations, assessing individual needs, and formulating effective treatment plans.
3. Advanced Skin Care for Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies: This unit focuses on in-depth skin analysis, understanding various skin conditions, and tailoring skincare regimens to support treatment outcomes.
4. Provide Cosmetic Skin Needling Treatments: Students gain hands-on experience in performing skin needling procedures, learning to use specialized equipment safely and effectively to address a range of skin concerns.

These units collectively ensure that graduates are well-prepared to offer advanced skin peeling services within the aesthetics industry and are repeated in other L4 qualifications.

The assessment for the VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Needling is designed to ensure that learners demonstrate both theoretical understanding and practical competence in performing advanced skin peeling treatments. The assessment includes:

1. Theory Examinations – Learners must complete externally set and marked multiple-choice or written knowledge papers to demonstrate their understanding of core concepts, such as skin anatomy, types of peels, health and safety, and legal considerations.
2. Practical Observations – Candidates are observed performing a range of skin peeling treatments on clients. These assessments take place in a real or realistic working environment and are evaluated by qualified assessors to ensure the correct techniques, client care, and hygiene protocols are followed. The date for the practical exam will be arranged with and external examiner at the beginning of the course, students will need to come in extra for this exam once a date has been confirmed.
3. Case Studies/Client Portfolio – Learners must complete a series of detailed case studies or maintain a portfolio of treatments performed. This demonstrates consistent application of skills across different client needs and skin types.
4. Assignments and Coursework – Some units require written assignments to showcase in-depth understanding of consultation techniques, treatment planning, and aftercare protocols.

All components must be successfully completed to achieve the qualification, ensuring learners are fully prepared to practice safely and effectively within the aesthetics industry.

£738

Contact our Admissions team if you have any course fee-related questions regarding funding eligibility etc: info@yorkcollege.ac.uk 

Students may wish to widen their treatment offering and study other courses, including:
 
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Peeling
VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 in Radio Frequency Treatments
VTCT Skills Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Beauty Therapy (2025)
VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Micropigmentation
VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Award in Radio Frequency
VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Aesthetic Treatments (2026)

16th - 20th February 2026, 9.00am-5.00pm

5 full days of practical activities in College followed by an external exam (date to be confirmed).

The VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Skin Needling is delivered through a blend of practical and theoretical learning to ensure students develop both the technical skills and underpinning knowledge required for professional practice. Study methods include:

Practical Training Sessions: Hands-on learning delivered in professional salons and workshops, where students practise techniques under the expert guidance and supervision.

Classroom-Based Theory: In-depth classroom sessions covering consultation techniques, anatomy and physiology, health and safety, and aftercare procedures.

Client Case Studies: Real client consultations and treatment planning to build confidence and competence in providing tailored services.

Independent Study: Assignments and research tasks completed outside of class to reinforce theoretical understanding.

Assessment: Continuous assessment through practical observations, written assignments, and portfolio development.

This structured, hands-on approach prepares students to deliver safe, effective, and personalised treatments in real-world settings.

York College offers outstanding facilities designed to support and inspire students in the Hair, Beauty, and Media Make-up industries. Our Hair & Beauty department features two large, fully equipped hairdressing salons and four professional-standard beauty therapy salons, providing real-world environments for students to refine their skills. A welcoming commercial salon reception area enhances the professional experience, while three dedicated media make-up workshops offer creative spaces for students to bring their artistry to life using industry-standard tools and products.

Beyond the Hair & Beauty department, all students can enjoy the wider College’s outstanding facilities, including the modern Learning & Research Centre, quiet study hubs, well-equipped computer areas, multi-function printers, and expert support from the on-site helpdesk team—ensuring the perfect environment for both practical learning and academic success.

Students will need to wear appropriate uniform for training, this could be your own professional work uniform.

Please get in touch for further information.

The VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Needling opens a range of career progression opportunities for qualified beauty and aesthetic professionals looking to advance in the industry. Upon completion, learners can:

1. Offer Advanced Aesthetic Treatments – Work as a skin needling specialist in salons, aesthetic clinics, or independently, providing chemical peel treatments to address concerns like acne, pigmentation, and skin aging.
2. Progress to Higher-Level Qualifications – Enrol onto further Level 4 courses in aesthetic treatments see course progression.
3. Work in Medical Aesthetic Environments – Collaborate with dermatologists or aesthetic doctors in medical clinics, particularly with further training or qualifications, providing pre- and post-treatment care or supporting more advanced procedures.
4. Start or Expand a Business – Use the qualification to set up a self-employed aesthetic practice, or to expand an existing beauty business by introducing advanced skin services.

This qualification enhances professional credibility with students gaining a regulated (as opposed to an accredited) qualification and opens doors to a growing market in advanced skincare and non-invasive cosmetic treatments.