ITEC Beauty Specialist study guide
ITEC Beauty Specialist · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The ITEC Beauty Specialist qualification is a vocational, portfolio-based credential for people who want to work as a generalist beauty therapist rather than specialise in a single treatment area. It suits learners on full-time or part-time courses at approved centres, career changers moving into salon or spa work, and existing therapists who want a broad, recognised qualification to sit alongside narrower certificates. The ITEC Beauty Specialist study guide has 10 sections and about 2,963 words.
01Professional practice, ethics, and client care
The Professional practice, ethics and client care domain examines how a beauty specialist works lawfully, safely and respectfully. Questions focus on consent, confidentiality, professional boundaries, referral, record keeping and the client experience, not just technical skill.
324 words, about 2 min02Health, safety, and hygiene in the salon
Health, safety and hygiene questions test your ability to prevent cross-infection and accidents while meeting salon and legal duties. Expect areas such as hand hygiene, cleaning, disinfection and sterilisation, PPE, COSHH, waste, risk assessment, electricity, fire and accident reporting.
328 words, about 2 min03Anatomy and physiology of the skin and body systems
This domain checks the structure and function of skin and the body systems that affect treatment safety and client assessment. You need to link anatomy to contraindications, skin responses and aftercare rather than label diagrams alone.
298 words, about 1 min04Skin analysis, consultation, and treatment planning
This domain assesses structured consultation, skin analysis and client-centred treatment planning. It tests observation, questioning, contraindication screening, patch testing, realistic goal setting and documentation.
292 words, about 1 min05Facial treatments and skin care products
Facial treatments and skin care products tests treatment sequencing, product function, massage, extraction safety, contraindications and home-care advice. A professional facial typically includes consultation, cleansing, exfoliation, tone, massage, mask, moisturiser and sun protection, adapted to skin.
278 words, about 1 min06Body treatments, massage, and body care
This domain covers body analysis, massage techniques, body care products, draping, contraindications and aftercare. Questions link technique choice to client safety and intended effects.
266 words, about 1 min07Hair removal techniques (waxing, threading, and related methods)
Hair removal techniques tests waxing, threading and related methods, including hair growth, skin assessment, hygiene, technique and aftercare. Hair grows in cycles.
295 words, about 1 min08Eye treatments (tinting, perming, and lash services)
Eye treatments tests tinting, perming or lash lifting and related lash services, with emphasis on eye safety, patch testing, contraindications and precise technique. The eye area is delicate.
302 words, about 2 min09Manicure, pedicure, and nail care
Manicure, pedicure and nail care tests nail anatomy, assessment, safe filing and cuticle work, massage, pedicure risks and infection control. The nail plate is produced by the matrix.
302 words, about 2 min10Makeup application and cosmetic techniques
Makeup application and cosmetic techniques tests consultation, colour theory, face and eye shapes, product choice, hygiene, corrective techniques and special-occasion wear. Start with skin prep and a client brief: occasion, lighting, longevity, sensitivities, current products and expectations.
278 words, about 1 min