CIBTAC Beauty Therapy Diploma (Ireland) study plan

Map the full CIBTAC Beauty Therapy syllabus into a one-page checklist, grouping topics by practical treatment area (facial, waxing, manicure/pedicure, makeup, anatomy and physiology)

Define the terminology of skin structure and function-epidermis layers, dermis, hypodermis, sebaceous and sweat glands-and label a hand-drawn cross-section from memory

List the 12 body systems and state in one sentence how each relates to beauty therapy practice

Identify the main skin types and conditions (dry, oily, combination, sensitive, mature, dehydrated) and match each to suitable product categories

Explain the consultation process: client history, contraindications, skin analysis, treatment planning and informed consent

Practise skin analysis steps in order and record findings using correct professional vocabulary

Build a contraindication table separating absolute and relative contraindications for facial, waxing and nail treatments

Describe infection control routines: hand hygiene, tool sterilisation, waste disposal and single-use items

Sequence a full facial treatment from preparation through cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, massage, mask and moisturising

Name the classical facial massage movements and the direction and purpose of each

Select products for three contrasting client profiles and justify each choice in writing

Identify the muscles of the face and neck and state the action of each

Describe hair growth cycles and explain how waxing interacts with anagen, catagen and telogen phases

Compare warm, hot and strip waxing: suitable body areas, temperature checks, patch testing and aftercare advice

Outline manicure and pedicure procedure steps including nail shape, cuticle care, filing direction and massage

List nail and skin conditions that require referral rather than treatment

Explain the purpose and correct order of the makeup routine from preparation and priming through base, colour and setting

Match foundation and concealer shades to skin undertones and describe correction techniques for colour imbalance

Describe eyelash and eyebrow tinting and perming: patch test timing, product application, development times and contra-actions

Summarise relevant Irish and EU requirements for cosmetic product labelling, ingredient lists and record keeping

Consolidate anatomy and physiology by linking each body system to at least two beauty treatments

Explain the structure and function of hair, nails and skin as treatment targets in a single integrated summary

Describe the signs of skin cancer and other referral conditions and the correct professional response

Recite the main contra-actions for each treatment type and the immediate action for each

Answer 60 mixed-format practice questions under timed conditions and log every incorrect answer with the correct reasoning

Re-teach your three weakest topics aloud or in writing without notes

Practise professional communication scenarios: client complaints, aftercare advice and referral conversations

Review health, safety and hygiene points that recur across all treatment areas

Complete a second full mock paper and compare scores against week 7 to confirm improvement

Recite key definitions, treatment sequences and contraindications from memory in rapid-recall drills

Finalise a one-page revision sheet of the highest-risk facts to review in the 48 hours before the exam

Plan exam-day logistics: timing per section, question-reading strategy and how to handle uncertain items