CIBTAC Level 3 & Level 4 Combo Course
The CIBTAC Level 3 & Level 4 Combo Course provides a structured route from foundational cosmetic-practice theory into advanced skin peeling and microneedling treatments.
The programme is suitable for complete beginners and beauty professionals who want to progress into advanced skin services. No previous beauty qualification is required.
You must successfully complete the CIBTAC Level 3 Principles in Cosmetic Practice before progressing to the two Level 4 qualifications.
Qualifications Included
After successfully completing all required theory, portfolio work, practical training and assessments, you will achieve:
- CIBTAC Level 3 Principles in Cosmetic Practice
- CIBTAC Level 4 Award in Skin Peeling
- CIBTAC Level 4 Award in Microneedling
CIBTAC Level 3 Principles in Cosmetic Practice
The CIBTAC Level 3 Principles in Cosmetic Practice is a theory-based qualification designed to provide the knowledge required before progressing to advanced aesthetic treatments.
This qualification is completed through blended learning, combining online tutor-led theory, independent study, written portfolio work and a theory examination.
The Level 3 programme covers:
- Skin Anatomy and Physiology
- Health, safety and hygiene
- Infection control and sterilisation
- Client consultation
- Client record keeping
- Contraindications
- Contra-actions
- Professional standards
- Professional responsibilities
The Level 3 section is designed to be completed within eight weeks. Up to two additional support weeks may be available when extra time is required for revision, assessment preparation or portfolio completion.
Full tutor guidance is provided throughout the programme.
Progression from Level 3 to Level 4
The Level 3 qualification underpins the advanced treatments included within the programme.
You must complete and pass the CIBTAC Level 3 Principles in Cosmetic Practice before beginning the Level 4 Skin Peeling and Microneedling qualifications.
Progression is therefore dependent on successful completion of the required Level 3 portfolio and examination.
CIBTAC Level 4 Award in Skin Peeling
The CIBTAC Level 4 Award in Skin Peeling focuses on professional superficial chemical exfoliation treatments.
You will learn how to assess the skin, select an appropriate treatment and apply superficial skin peels using a controlled professional protocol.
The qualification covers:
- Principles of chemical skin peeling
- Superficial peel types
- Alpha hydroxy acids
- Beta hydroxy acids
- Polyhydroxy acids
- Client consultation
- Skin analysis
- Treatment planning
- Safe product application
- Product timings
- Neutralisation where required
- Safe product removal
- Monitoring the skin response
- Homecare and aftercare
Skin peeling treatments may improve the visible appearance of skin texture, tone and clarity. Results and skin responses vary between clients.
CIBTAC Level 4 Award in Microneedling
The CIBTAC Level 4 Award in Microneedling covers professional microneedling techniques designed to support skin rejuvenation and collagen induction.
You will learn how to assess the client, select appropriate treatment settings and adapt the procedure according to the treatment area and skin condition.
The qualification covers:
- Principles of microneedling
- Relevant Anatomy and Physiology
- Microneedling device knowledge
- Treatment-depth selection
- Skin analysis
- Client suitability
- Safe treatment techniques
- Adapting treatments to different skin types
- Monitoring the skin response
- Client management
- Homecare and aftercare
Microneedling is designed to support the visible appearance of skin quality. Treatment suitability and results vary between clients.
Client Consultation and Skin Analysis
Consultation and skin analysis form an important part of both Level 4 qualifications.
You will learn how to review:
- The client’s treatment goals
- Current skin concerns
- Skin type and condition
- Relevant medical information
- Medication
- Allergies and sensitivities
- Previous skin treatments
- Previous reactions
- Contraindications
- Expected treatment outcomes
- Consent and treatment records
The consultation helps determine whether treatment is suitable or whether it should be adapted, delayed or declined.
Health, Safety and Infection Control
The course covers the professional safety standards required for advanced skin treatments.
You will study:
- Preparing a hygienic treatment area
- Hand hygiene
- Personal protective equipment
- Infection-control procedures
- Preventing cross-contamination
- Cleaning and sterilisation principles
- Safe product handling
- Safe equipment use
- Disposal of treatment waste
- Maintaining accurate client records
Course Delivery and Duration
The complete CIBTAC Level 3 & Level 4 Combo Course takes approximately 12 weeks to complete and includes home study.
Level 3 delivery: Online tutor-led theory, independent learning, written portfolio work and a theory examination.
Level 3 study period: Designed for completion within eight weeks, with up to two additional support weeks where required.
Level 4 delivery: Six practical training days covering skin peeling and microneedling.
Final assessment: Students return for the required final examinations and practical assessments.
The exact schedule may depend on portfolio progress, assessment dates and successful completion of the Level 3 qualification.
Assessment Requirements
The programme includes written, theoretical and practical assessment methods.
You will complete:
- A written Level 3 portfolio
- A Level 3 theory examination
- Level 4 practical training
- Level 4 theory assessments
- Level 4 practical assessments
- Final examinations where required
All required units and assessments must be completed successfully before the qualifications can be awarded.
What the Course Includes
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Health, safety and hygiene
- Infection control and safe practice
- Client consultation
- Skin analysis
- Treatment planning
- Treatment adaptations
- Product knowledge
- Equipment knowledge
- Step-by-step treatment protocols
- Contraindications
- Contra-actions
- Aftercare guidance
- Level 3 written portfolio
- Theory examinations
- Level 4 practical assessments
Products, Equipment and Models
No take-home kit is included with the course.
All products and equipment required during practical training are provided by the academy.
Models are usually provided for practical training. Students may also work on one another where appropriate and suitable.
Model arrangements may vary according to the treatment, assessment requirements and training schedule.
Who Is This Course For?
The CIBTAC Level 3 & Level 4 Combo Course is suitable for:
- Complete beginners with no previous beauty qualification
- Beauty professionals progressing into advanced skin treatments
- Therapists seeking formal Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications
- Professionals planning to offer skin peels
- Professionals planning to offer microneedling
- People planning to develop an advanced skin business
No previous qualification is required to begin the Level 3 programme.
Career Opportunities
After successful completion, the qualifications may support progression into professional advanced skin services.
Possible routes include:
- Working as an advanced skin therapist
- Working within a skin or aesthetics clinic
- Adding skin peeling to an existing treatment menu
- Adding microneedling to an existing treatment menu
- Developing an independent advanced-skin business
- Working from suitable professional premises
You must arrange suitable professional insurance and meet any applicable licensing, premises and equipment requirements before offering treatments.
Course Price and Examination Fees
Course Price: £4,440.
Required examination fees are included within the course price.
Changes to scheduled examination dates or requests for alternative examination sittings may incur additional fees.
Students should review the course terms before booking or requesting changes to assessment dates.
Insurance and Professional Practice
It is the responsibility of each learner to confirm that the completed qualifications meet the requirements of their chosen professional insurer.
You should check the insurer’s current entry, qualification and treatment requirements before enrolling.
Professional practice may also be subject to local licensing, premises, hygiene, equipment and waste-disposal requirements.
CIBTAC Level 3 & Level 4 Combo Course FAQs
Is the course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. No previous beauty qualification is required to begin the CIBTAC Level 3 Principles in Cosmetic Practice.
Which qualifications are included?
The programme includes CIBTAC Level 3 Principles in Cosmetic Practice, CIBTAC Level 4 Award in Skin Peeling and CIBTAC Level 4 Award in Microneedling.
Do I need to complete Level 3 before Level 4?
Yes. You must successfully complete and pass the Level 3 Principles in Cosmetic Practice before progressing to the Level 4 qualifications.
How is the Level 3 qualification completed?
Level 3 combines online tutor-led theory, independent study, a written portfolio and a theory examination.
How long does the complete course take?
The complete qualification takes approximately 12 weeks and includes home study, six Level 4 practical training days and final assessments.
Do I receive a course kit?
No take-home kit is included. All products and equipment required during practical training are provided by the academy.
Are models provided?
Models are usually provided. Students may also work on one another where appropriate and suitable.
What should I wear?
Students should wear a professional beauty tunic, scrubs or suitable all-black clothing during practical training days.
Are examination fees included?
Yes. Required examination fees are included in the course price. Changes to examination dates or alternative sittings may incur additional fees.
Can I work professionally after completing the course?
The qualifications may support professional skin peeling and microneedling work after successful completion. You must arrange suitable insurance and meet any applicable professional requirements.
Can I film practical demonstrations?
Approved demonstrations may be recorded for personal learning. Permission must be obtained, and the privacy of tutors, students and models must be respected.
What if I change my mind or want to change courses?
Courses are non-refundable. Course credit may be offered for a transfer, subject to the academy's terms, availability and assessment arrangements.
CIBTAC Level 3 & Level 4 Combo Course Details
| Glasgow Course Duration | 12 weeks with home study and onsite assessments |
|---|---|
| Glasgow Model Requirement | No model required |
| Aberdeen Course Duration | 12 weeks with home study and onsite assessments |
| Aberdeen Model Requirement | No model required |
Please note: Contact us for more details.






