How to become a beauty therapist
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- specialist courses run by private training providers
College
You could study for a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You can do an intermediate or advanced beauty therapist apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
You could start out as a beauty therapy assistant in a salon or spa. You could then study for a qualification on the job.
Other Routes
You could also train with a private beauty school.
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Professional and industry bodies
You may find it useful to get professional recognition by joining a register like the Guild of Beauty Therapists.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in beauty therapy from the Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Authority and the British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology.
You can also find out more about working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers