Level 4 Certificate in Aesthetic Practice Core of Knowledge

Our aesthetic core of knowledge provides the entire theoretical knowledge required to practice in aesthetic therapies. It is included in all our Level 4 courses. However, it is also available as a standalone course.

If you are thinking about starting your beauty therapy career, ask yourself, should you select a beauty therapy college that is not equipped for today’s advanced modalities? Or should you select an aesthetics training college with an emphasis on the advanced treatments that clients are looking for and the equipment to deliver such an education?

Welcome to ATAI, your passport into advanced skin aesthetics.

What is the Aesthetic Practice Core of Knowledge?

This module is a group of subjects that provide a knowledge framework to practice in the aesthetic industry. The learner will develop a robust understanding of the human body, including anatomy, systems of the body, structure and function of skin and hair. Develop an understanding of the principals of ageing, intrinsic and extrinsic. Understand infection control, wound healing, pigment disorders, skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and psoriasis. Develop the skills for skin analysis and advanced facial anatomy facilitating the knowledge required to formulate complex treatment protocols. Below you will find a brief overview of the subjects covered in the Aesthetic Practice Core of Knowledge.

  • Structure and function of the human body
    • This subject introduces learners to the structure and function of the human body, including an overall introduction of the major body systems. The fundamentals of biochemistry that govern how body components, the structure and function of the communication systems such as the nervous system, the musculoskeletal system, endocrine system and the immune system and provide an overview of the reproductive system. We consider the maintenance of body homeostasis through an understanding of the cardiovascular, respiratory and renal systems. Venturing through the electrical and mechanical functions of the heart, its interaction with the blood vessels, the hormones and the autonomic nervous system that control heart function. Learners will understand the role of the renal system in the control of the chemical composition of the body, water balance and body fluid volume, and an overview of the respiratory and gastrointestinal system control of homeostasis.
  • Structure and function of the integumentary system
    • In this module, learners are introduced to the complexity of the integumentary system, the skin and related appendages including nails, hair, glands, and proteins and the variety of mechanical, thermal and environmental impacts that affect the ageing process and general health and functioning of the skin
  • Diseases and disorders of the skin
    • This subject examines in detail the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment protocols of dermatological conditions following inflammatory processes. Learners are introduced to the fundamentals of infection and pathology before studying some of the more common dermatological conditions and diseases such as acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis.
  • Physiology of ageing
    • This subject builds on the knowledge gained in the Body Structure and Function modules and advances the learners understandings of the impact of disease and the ways alterations in homeostatic mechanisms disrupt the normative functioning of the human body. The subject concentrates on central concepts of pathophysiology such as how cells and tissues respond to pathogenic challenges, the principles behind genetic disorders and alterations in immunity and inflammation and how these affect the various systems in the body.
  • Cosmetic chemistry
    • This module examines the theories and practices connected with the cosmeceutical ingredients used in aesthetic practice learners examine evidence-base through cosmetic science. The overreaching principal of this subject is to build the knowledge required to cut through the ‘hype’ so often surrounding cosmeceutical products. We examine core ingredients that have an evidence base. With all the hype that surrounds cosmeceutical products, it is essential that clinicians can distinguish between evidence-based claims, theoretical benefit, and those of no benefit at all.
  • Health and nutrition in aesthetic practice
    • Learners will investigate the importance of correct dietary intake to maintain optimal skin and body health. Learners will focus on how bodily functions are directly related to biochemical interactions and nutrition. Also, this subject will cover the nutritional requirements of the body, nutritional make-up of the modern diet/foods and clinical manifestations of dietary deficiencies.
  • Psychology for aesthetic practice
    • A fundamental subject to safe and ethical practice is aesthetic psychology. Learners will explore the problems associated with social pressure, social media, and body dysmorphia conditions. We examine healthy and unhealthy drivers is patients seeking aesthetic treatment, how to identify at-risk-groups and when to refer to peers.
  • Advanced consultation for aesthetic practice
    • The learning outcome for this module is to develop the knowledge and skills of the practitioner to provide consultation for aesthetic therapies. We also introduce the SOAP method to aesthetic consultation. The module develops key consultation skills while providing an in-depth understanding of client care including the understanding the need for informed consent. Developing robust consultation skills is paramount for ensuring positive clinical outcomes, we explore why clinicians should always carry out their own consultation and the need for allowing a cooling off period before treatment.
  • Clinical governance and organisational principals of aesthetic care
    • Learners will understand the principals of operating within a framework of quality assurance, understand the need to practice within the confines of organisational protocols, the impact of not adhering to local legislative guidelines and how that can impact indemnity. We look at developments within the sector such as the JCCP, CPSA, their influences on the sector and future ramifications. Learners are introduced to occupational health and safety, data protection, GDPR, and clinical record keeping.

Course Outline

Aesthetics Core of Knowledge is the foundation of our Level 4 courses, it represents the underpinning knowledge required to practice ethically, efficiently, with an evidence base.

Subjects

  • cardiovascular system
  • lymphatic system
  • nervous system
  • muscular system
  • skeletal system
  • endocrine system
  • physiology
  • pharmacology
  • pathology
  • microbiology
  • biochemistry
  • biophysics
  • hygiene
  • skin anatomy
  • skin function
  • skin physiology
  • skin conditions
  • skin management
  • infection control
  • wound healing
  • evidence-based practice
  • research methodologies
  • professionalism
  • law
  • ethics
  • aesthetic psychology
  • occupational health & safety
  • record keeping
  • clinical photography
  • conflict resolution
  • clinical governance
  • principles of quality assurance
  • advanced consultation
  • clinical record keeping
  • communication
  • risk assessment
  • topical skin therapy

Qualifications

  • Level 4 Certificate in Aesthetic Practice Core of Knowledge

Assessment

  • Assignments
  • Theory – MCQ’s (Multiple Choice Questions)

Course Duration

Our Level 4 Certificate in Aesthetic Practice Core of Knowledge is delivered through online learning. On average learners take 16 weeks to complete the course.

Course Fees

€1500 –