Accurate skin analysis is the foundation of your business. Without a sound knowledge of the skin, its structure and functions, and the relationship it has with the rest of the body, it is difficult to correctly analyse the conditions clients bring to you. If the treatment path chosen is wrong, at best you get a partial result and at worst the condition deteriorates.
This course teaches you to establish cause and effect rather than treat symptoms — linking skin structure and function to skin condition, and then to product composition, so the treatment programme you choose is the right one. Accurate diagnosis leads to successful treatments, and to increased sales of home care and professional treatments.
Course structure
Phase 1 — Preparation and technique
- Detailed consultation, diagnostic characteristics and protocols
- Basic majority skin types and diagnostic indicators
- Determining priority skin conditions
- Skin structure and function, and conditions relating to texture
- The epidermis and the life cycle of the keratinocyte
- The dermis, collagen synthesis, elastin and glycation
Phase 2 — Skin physiology applied to the analysis procedure
- Fitzpatrick chart and diagnosis
- The immune system, and cells and systems working in synergy
- Free radicals
- Skin conditions relating to secretions and the systems involved
- Impaired lymphatic system and impaired enzyme activity
- Essential fatty acids, the acid mantle and micro flora
- Acne, hormonal and medicated acne, and diagnosing the different types
Phase 3 — Review, records and technology
- Determining priority skin conditions
- Designing a consultation and analysis form
- Maintaining client records
- Digital cameras and skin diagnostic equipment
- Confirming diagnosis with electronic devices
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course you will be able to:
- Carry out a detailed consultation and use diagnostic characteristics and indicators to identify skin type
- Relate skin structure and function to the conditions you see, and establish cause rather than treat symptoms
- Determine priority skin conditions and build a treatment programme around them
- Recognise and differentiate the types of acne, including hormonal and medicated acne
- Design your own consultation and analysis form and maintain compliant client records
- Use digital imaging and skin diagnostic equipment to confirm your diagnosis
Learning materials and support
Updated anatomy and physiology of the skin, complete visual diagnosis references, clear diagrammatic colour visuals, diagnostic guidelines for skincare professionals, and review questions with comprehensive references. Our online portal lets you upload your work, ask questions and get ongoing support from the team.
Assessment and certification
Review questions at the end of each phase. On successful completion you receive a CPD-accredited certificate.
Course credits
16 CPD credits.

