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Courses for Adults

VTCT (iTEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Peeling

Subject Area
Hair, Beauty & Media Make-up
Start Date
October 2025
Study Mode
Part-time
Duration
5 Days, followed by an external exam.
Level
Level 4
Entry Requirements
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 Peeling at York College is a specialised qualification designed for experienced beauty therapists looking to advance their skills in advanced aesthetic treatments.

This comprehensive course focuses on the principles and practice of chemical peels, equipping learners with the knowledge and practical expertise to safely and effectively perform skin resurfacing procedures. 

Students will explore skin anatomy, types of peeling agents, treatment planning, and post-care guidance, all delivered by industry experts in a professional learning environment.

Ideal for professionals aiming to expand their services and meet growing client demand, this Level 4 qualification supports progression into the rapidly evolving aesthetics industry.

Entry requirements

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).

Course units

The VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Peeling comprises four mandatory units, each designed to equip learners with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for advanced skin peeling treatments:

  1. Principles and Practice of Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies: This unit delves into the foundational aspects of non-medical aesthetic treatments, covering developments in the field, benefits and limitations of various therapies, professional conduct standards, relevant regulations, and safety consideration
  2. Advanced Consultation for Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies: Focusing on effective client communication, this unit teaches methods for conducting thorough consultations, understanding legal requirements, and gathering essential client information to ensure safe and effective treatment planning.
  3. Advanced Skin Care for Non-Medical Aesthetic Therapies: Learners explore the physiology of skin aging, advanced skin assessment techniques, and preparation methods to provide comprehensive skincare solutions tailored to individual client needs.
  4. Provide Skin Peeling Treatments: This practical unit trains students to safely administer skin peeling procedures, addressing various skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines, while emphasizing consultation, treatment planning, and post-care advice. 

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.

Assessment

The assessment for the VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Peeling 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.

Course fees

£738

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

Course progression

Students may wish to widen their treatment offering and study other courses, including:

VTCT Skills Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Beauty Therapy (2025)

VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Micropigmentation

VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Needling

VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Award in Radio Frequency

VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Aesthetic Treatments (2026)

Dates & course durations

27th- 31st October 2025 (9.00am – 5.00pm)

Study methods

The VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Skin Peeling 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.

Facilities

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.

Additional costs

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

Please get in touch for further information.

Career progression

The VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Certificate in Skin Peeling 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 peeling 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.

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