QQI Level 5 Beauty Therapy study guide
QQI Level 5 Beauty Therapy · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
QQI Level 5 Beauty Therapy (award code 5M3471) is a major award on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications, sitting at Level 5 alongside the Leaving Certificate. It is the standard entry-level qualification for people who want to work as a beauty therapist in a salon, spa, or as a mobile or self-employed practitioner, and it is also taken by existing therapists who need a recognised credential for insurance or employment. The QQI Level 5 Beauty Therapy study guide has 10 sections and about 2,550 words.
01Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology relevant to Beauty Therapy
Domain 1 tests how confidently you connect skin, hair, nail and body-system anatomy to safe treatment choices, and how quickly you recognise pathology that must be referred rather than treated. Epidermis: keratinocytes migrate from the basal layer; melanocytes sit in the basal layer; the stratum corneum is the barrier.
314 words, about 2 min02Skin Analysis
Domain 2 tests whether you can carry out a structured skin analysis, distinguish skin type from skin condition, and justify product and treatment choices from evidence you have observed. Cleanse and remove make-up; wash hands and wear gloves; use good lighting and a magnifying lamp.
262 words, about 1 min03Consultation and Client Care
Domain 3 tests the consultation as a safety and consent process, not a chat before treatment: history-taking, contraindication screening, clear explanation, documented consent and secure record keeping. Greet, confirm identity and treatment, ensure privacy and hand hygiene.
260 words, about 1 min04Facial Treatments and Skincare
Domain 4 tests treatment planning and safe delivery of facials: preparation, cleansing, exfoliation, massage, masks, moisturising, sun protection and homecare, with contraindications applied to each step. Prepare trolley, sanitise hands, cleanse and analyse the skin.
246 words, about 1 min05Manicure, Pedicure and Nail Care
Domain 5 tests nail anatomy, safe manicure and pedicure technique, recognition of nail and skin disorders, and infection control between clients. The nail plate sits on the nail bed; the matrix produces it; the lunula is visible matrix; the cuticle seals the nail fold; the hyponychium is under the free edge.
251 words, about 1 min06Waxing and Hair Removal Techniques
Domain 6 tests hair-growth knowledge, wax selection, patch testing, contraindication screening, direction of application and removal, and aftercare. Hair passes through anagen (growth), catagen (transition) and telogen (rest).
258 words, about 1 min07Make-up Application and Eyebrow/Eyelash Treatments
Domain 7 tests colour theory, face and brow shape analysis, hygienic make-up application and safe eyebrow/eyelash tinting. Match foundation to undertone and depth, not to the hand; test at the jawline in natural light.
244 words, about 1 min08Health, Safety and Hygiene in the Salon
Domain 8 tests infection control, legal duties, chemical and electrical safety, waste handling and emergency readiness in an Irish salon context. Wash hands before and after every client; wear gloves for waxing, extractions, tinting and blood/body-fluid contact.
242 words, about 1 min09Salon Practices, Professionalism and Customer Service
Domain 9 tests professional conduct and customer service: appointments, confidentiality, complaints, boundaries, teamwork and reliable record keeping. Be punctual, clean, appropriately dressed and prepared; confirm treatment and consent before starting.
239 words, about 1 min10Product Knowledge and Retail in Beauty Therapy
Domain 10 tests ingredients, product function, pH, compatibility, expiry and needs-based retailing without medical claims. Cleansers remove oil and debris; match to skin type.
234 words, about 1 min