The Focus Awards Level 5 Diploma in Tattoo Removal is an advanced, nationally regulated qualification for practitioners specialising in tattoo removal. It develops the relevant anatomy and physiology and health and safety knowledge, full client consultation and advanced skin assessment, and the safe delivery of laser and non laser tattoo removal treatments.
At a glance
- Qualification number 610/0564/2
- Level 5 Diploma
- 46 credits
- 342 guided learning hours
- 460 total qualification time
- Assessed by portfolio
- Minimum age 16
- Course fee £2,499
Entry requirements
You will need a minimum of a Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification, a Level 3 Award in Understanding Human Anatomy and Physiology, or occupational competence in tattooing. You should be aged 16 or over.
What you will study
Mandatory units
| Unit | Unit reference | Level | Credits | Guided learning hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Skin Science | H/618/5348 | 4 | 9 | 65 |
| Aesthetics Practice Core Knowledge | D/618/5347 | 4 | 12 | 92 |
| Provide investigative consultation and advanced skin assessment | D/617/9967 | 4 | 10 | 75 |
Optional units, choose one
| Unit | Unit reference | Level | Credits | Guided learning hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Tattoo Removal | Y/650/1761 | 5 | 15 | 110 |
| Non Laser Tattoo Removal | A/650/1762 | 5 | 15 | 110 |
How you are assessed
Internally assessed through a portfolio of evidence. There are no external written examinations.
Assessment includes advanced consultation and practical treatment. This qualification is available in England.
Course fee
£2,499. Payment plans are available. Please ask when you enquire.
Who delivers this qualification
This regulated qualification is delivered by Skintastic Aesthetic Supplies Ltd, company number 11028743, 26 The Avenue, Southampton SO17 1XL. Skintastic Aesthetics Training Academy is an approved Focus Awards centre. The qualification is awarded by Focus Awards and regulated by Ofqual on the Regulated Qualifications Framework.
Book your place
Courses run at our Southampton academy in small groups. Contact us on 02381 946394 or email info@skintasticaesthetics.com for available dates and to secure your place.
Course information
Download the Level 5 Tattoo Removal course information (PDF)
Learning outcomes
- Understand advanced skin science of facial aesthetics, and explain the physiology of skin conditions.
- Understand the work of medical and non-medical aesthetic practitioners, and the legislation and regulations for non-surgical aesthetic practice.
- Understand the basics of microbiology, pathology, biochemistry and infection control.
- Understand consultation and informed consent, and essential anatomy and physiology.
- Understand and conduct advanced skin assessments and investigative consultations, including skin types and conditions.
- Understand treatments to fade or remove tattoos safely, and the anatomy, physiology and pathology involved.
- Provide treatments to fade or remove tattoos safely.
Duration and delivery
The diploma carries 342 guided learning hours and 460 hours of total qualification time. The taught element runs over four days at our Southampton academy, covering theory, patch testing and supervised treatments on models, followed by assessment and portfolio building. You then complete your portfolio using a separate workbook for each unit, with tutorials normally every 4 to 8 weeks to check your progress and offer support.
How the assessment works
The diploma is internally assessed through a portfolio of evidence, with no external written examination. Knowledge is assessed through written answers in your workbooks. Laser tattoo removal must be observed at least five times to show consistency over time, with before and after photographs taken with written consent. You also complete five supervised clinical case studies, each with a medical history, before and after photographs, a description of the tattoo, and the technique and treatment parameters used. Work is internally quality assured and externally quality assured by Focus Awards.
Insurance
Insurers typically expect manufacturer specific and independent Core of Knowledge training, a risk assessment supported by a Laser Protection Adviser, and current Local Rules. Check your own insurer’s requirements before you treat.


