CIDESCO Beauty Therapy Diploma (Ireland) study plan

Map the full Beauty Therapy syllabus into a one-page checklist of topics, marking each as known, shaky, or unknown

Define and correctly use 40 core anatomy and physiology terms covering skin structure, hair growth cycles, and nail anatomy

Explain the three skin types and four skin conditions, and justify a treatment choice for each in writing

Practise client consultation sequence on two volunteers, covering contraindications, consent, and record keeping

Demonstrate correct cleansing, exfoliation, and mask application sequence on a model within a timed 30-minute window

Identify 15 contraindications to facial treatments and state the correct action for each

Describe the active ingredients and mode of action of six professional facial products without notes

Draft a client aftercare advice sheet covering home routine, sun protection, and when to seek advice

Perform a full facial treatment on two different skin types, adapting products and pressure to each

Explain the structure and growth cycle of hair and the anatomy of the nail unit from memory

Compare five manual massage movements and state the physiological effect and indication of each

Link three common skin conditions to the cosmetic ingredients that would and would not be appropriate

Classify cosmetics by function and describe the formulation role of humectants, emollients, occlusives, and preservatives

Explain the legal and safety requirements for cosmetic labelling and claims relevant to an Irish salon

Interpret a product ingredient list and justify whether it suits sensitive, oily, or mature skin

Describe the chemistry of pH and how it affects skin barrier function and product choice

Define wellness and explain how it differs from beauty therapy and from medical treatment

Describe the components of a balanced lifestyle and their effect on skin, sleep, stress, and healing

Explain the role of nutrition, hydration, and exercise in skin health at a level appropriate for client advice

Identify when to refer a client to a healthcare professional and practise the wording of that referral

Explain the physiological effects of stress on the body and skin, and describe two relaxation techniques suitable for salon use

Describe the principles of hygiene, sterilisation, and cross-infection control in a spa environment

Compare three spa treatment categories and state the intended outcome and contraindications of each

Outline the client journey in a spa, from booking and consultation to aftercare and rebooking

Perform a body treatment sequence covering exfoliation, massage, and wrap or mask application within a realistic timeframe

Explain the effects, indications, and contraindications of heat treatments, hydrotherapy, and aromatherapy massage

Select and justify carrier and essential oil choices for three client scenarios, including one requiring caution

Adapt a treatment plan for a client with a disclosed medical condition, documenting the reasoning

Complete a full timed mock exam across all four domains and score each domain separately

Revisit every topic marked shaky or unknown in week one and confirm understanding with a written summary

Practise oral explanation of ten key concepts as if answering an examiner, keeping each answer under two minutes

Review hygiene, contraindication, and referral content one final time, as these recur across all domains