SQA Facial Skin Care Course(SCQF level 5)

SQA Facial Skin Care Course

The SQA Facial Skin Care Course at SCQF Level 5 introduces students to professional facial treatments through practical training, home study and portfolio work.

The course is suitable for complete beginners. It focuses on the knowledge needed to assess the client’s skin, plan a suitable facial and complete each stage of the treatment safely.

You will attend two practical training days at the academy. After the first day, you will complete written portfolio work at home before returning for further training and assessment.

This structure allows you to connect the theory with the treatment routine. You will understand why each facial step is performed rather than only learning a fixed sequence.

Successful completion of the practical work and required portfolio leads to the SQA Facial Skin Care qualification at SCQF Level 5.

How the SQA Course Is Structured

The course combines three parts:

• Two practical training days at the academy
• Home study between training sessions
• A written portfolio showing your knowledge and understanding

You will receive guidance on the portfolio during the first training day. The home-study work allows you to review consultation, skin care, treatment safety and aftercare before completing the course.

Client Consultation and Skin Assessment

A professional facial must begin with a detailed consultation.

You will learn how to ask suitable questions about the client’s skin, current routine, relevant health conditions and treatment expectations.

The course also teaches you how to examine the skin and recognise visible characteristics that may affect the facial. This information helps you select suitable products and adjust the treatment where required.

Professional Facial Routine

During the practical sessions, your tutor will demonstrate a complete facial treatment in clear stages.

You will practise preparing the client, applying products correctly and maintaining comfort throughout the appointment.

The treatment routine includes:

• Client consultation
• Preparing the client and treatment area
• Cleansing the skin
• Toning the skin
• Assessing the skin
• Completing an eyebrow tidy
• Selecting and applying a suitable mask
• Removing the mask correctly
• Applying moisturiser
• Providing homecare and aftercare advice

Eyebrow Tidy

The facial routine includes a basic eyebrow tidy.

You will learn how to assess the natural brow shape and remove suitable unwanted hair without changing the brow more than the client has requested.

This element supports the overall finished appearance of the facial treatment.

Product Selection and Treatment Planning

Different clients may need different facial products and treatment adjustments.

You will learn how to consider the client’s skin before choosing cleansers, toners, masks and moisturisers.

The aim is to create a suitable treatment plan rather than applying the same products to every client.

Health, Safety and Treatment Suitability

The course covers the safety checks required before carrying out a facial.

You will learn how to recognise contraindications and decide when a treatment should be changed, delayed or refused.

Training also includes:

• Maintaining personal and workplace hygiene
• Preparing products and equipment
• Preventing cross-contamination
• Protecting the client’s clothing and hair
• Using products according to instructions
• Keeping treatment records
• Cleaning the treatment area after use

Portfolio and Home Study

The portfolio is an important part of the SQA qualification.

It allows you to show that you understand the principles behind the practical treatment. Your tutor will explain the required written work and provide guidance on how it should be completed.

The portfolio may cover consultation, treatment preparation, facial steps, contraindications, product knowledge and aftercare.

Who Is This Course For?

The SQA Facial Skin Care Course is suitable for:

• Complete beginners with no previous beauty qualification
• Students seeking an SQA qualification in facial skin care
• People preparing to enter the beauty industry
• Existing therapists who need a formal facial qualification
• Students planning to progress to advanced skin treatments

What Can This Qualification Lead To?

After successful completion, you may offer professional facial treatments within the scope of your training and insurance.

You may seek work in a beauty salon, spa or skin clinic. You may also provide treatments from a suitable home setting or develop your own beauty business.

The qualification may also provide a foundation for further training in advanced facial and skincare treatments.

SQA Facial Skin Care Course Details

Entry Requirements

No previous beauty qualification or facial-treatment experience is required.

Qualification

SQA Facial Skin Care at SCQF Level 5.

Course Duration

Two practical training days, with home study and portfolio work completed between sessions.

Products and Equipment

The course does not include a take-home kit. The academy provides the products, tools and equipment needed during practical training.

Training Locations

The course is available at our Glasgow and Aberdeen beauty training academies.

SQA Facial Skin Care Course FAQs

Is the SQA Facial Skin Care Course suitable for beginners?

Yes. No previous beauty qualification or facial-treatment experience is required.

What qualification will I receive?

After successful completion of the practical work and required portfolio, you will receive the SQA Facial Skin Care qualification at SCQF Level 5.

How long does the course take?

The course includes two practical training days, along with home study and portfolio work completed between the academy sessions.

What should I wear?

Students attending the SQA Facial Skin Care Course in Glasgow or Aberdeen should wear a beauty tunic, scrubs or suitable all-black clothing.

Do I receive a kit with the course?

The course does not include a take-home kit. The academy provides all products, tools and equipment needed during practical training.

What treatments are covered?

The course covers consultation, skin assessment, cleansing, toning, eyebrow tidying, mask application, moisturising, homecare and aftercare.

Do I need to complete a portfolio?

Yes. The written portfolio is part of the SQA course and is completed through home study between the practical training sessions.

Can I work professionally after the course?

The qualification can support professional facial work after successful completion. You must arrange suitable insurance and work within the scope of your training.

What if I cannot find a model?

Try posting in suitable local model groups on social media. Contact the academy before the course if you are still unable to arrange a suitable model.

What if I change my mind or need to change courses?

The SQA Facial Skin Care Course is non-refundable. Course credit may be offered for a change or cancellation, subject to the academy’s booking terms.