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  • Why should you advance you lash skills beyond Classics

    Why should you advance you lash skills beyond Classics

    Lash technician applying extensions with tweezers

    New to the world of lashes? Starting out as a Lash Tech can be a rewarding job and great income booster! It takes a while to perfect your skills which is why we always advise starting with Classic Individual Lash Extensions. If you’ve got the to the stage where you feel confident with individual lashes and want to take your lash artistry to the next level we’re here to help! In todays blog where looking at the benefits of incorporating Hybrid and Russian Volume lashes into your skill set!

    Firstly, whats the difference? 

    Close-up of natural lash extensions

    Classics:

    Classics are the most common type of extension and are perfect for creating a natural look, ideal for clients who are looking for a natural lengthen and volume without the drama.

    They are applied in a 1:1 ratio, one lash applied to one lash. The other main difference is the thickness of the lash ranging from 0.10-0.15

    Classics vary in price, lash techs on average will charge on average £40 for a set

     

    Client with full lash extensions while a lash technician brushes them through Russian Volume 

    An advanced technique that requires lots of practice.. Russian lashes use fans created with individual lashes to apply to the natural lash.Typically, a volume lash uses 2 to 5 extensions per fan while a mega volume fan uses 6 to 16 artificial lashes.

    This creates a very full, dramatic look. Ideal for clients that are looking for a fuller, less natural look.

    A set of Russians range from £60-£70

     

    Close-up of volume lash extensions

    Hybrids 

    One of the newest and most popular styles combines Classic and Russian volume styles, using a blend of individual lashes with fans to create a full, glamorous set!

    Hybrids can still have a natural look and take some practice to perfect, these are the sets that take the most artistry to deliver.

    Hybrids on average can set clients back £55 for a full set

     

    What are the benefits of branching out into other lash styles? 

    1. Client base. It will allow you to tap into a new client base. Clients looking for fuller, bolder lashes will prefer Russian Volume and Hybrid lashes
    2. New skills. If you’re now a master of Classics you might be looking for more of a challenge, starting to practice lash mapping, making fans and building your skills in lash artistry could be the challenge you’ve been looking for!
    3. Business marketing. Russian Volume and Hybrid lashes are extremely popular, in regards to marketing your business they may be the treatments you need to start boosting your social presence, use before and after photos, videos and tutorials to build your social media using the hashtags #Russianvolume and #Hybridlashes
    4. Increased revenue. You can charge more per set for Russians and Hybrid lashes, taking your average hourly income from £30 up to £70!

     

    Where do I start?

    Our one day Accredited Diploma courses are the perfect way to get you started with new skills, you’ll learn the theory relating to the lash treatments and the rest of the day will be getting hands on practical experience. On Russian Volume training you will learn how to make your own fans and apply them using Lash Mapping techniques and on the Hybrid course using pre-made fans along with Individual lashes to create new, bold looks. I addition to applying lashes, on the Hybrid course you will also learn the skill of lash tinting, a great add on service for your clients with natural lighter lashes.

     

  • What are Quick Dip nails?

    What are Quick Dip nails?

     

    Manicurist applying acrylic dip powder

     

    Looking for a nail system that lasts longer than Gel Polish? Look no further than Quick Dip nails. Although the Quick Dip trend isn’t new, a recent increase of social posts is rocketing the service, making it a more popular choice for clients and Nail Techs alike. Who doesn’t want a manicure that lasts a full two weeks?

     

    What are Quick Dip/Powder Dip nails?

    Sometimes referred to as the ‘Diet Acrylic’ quick dip nail systems are a happy medium between a manicure and acrylics. A simple system that requires a base coat adhesive applied to the tip or natural nail, then while still wet the nail is dipped into the acrylic powder which hardens when the monomer interacts chemically with powders. This process is then repeated 2-3 times to build a strong enhancement. Activator is then applied to harden the nail. A quick buff, polish and voila a perfectly manicured set in less than an hour!

     

    Nail technician preparing a client's nails

    What are the benefits Quick Dip/Powder Dip nails?

    The ‘Quick Nails’ system enables the nail technician to create beautifully strong nails in less than 1 hour.

    This can be used over tips or as natural nail overlays.

    Dip systems require fewer tools, no mess and no fuss

     

    How to perform Quick Dip/Powder Dip nails

    1. Prepare the nails with a dry manicure including cuticle work, filing and buffing
    2. Once the nails are prepared apply nail tips if required
    3. Apply base coat/adhesive to the nails
    4. Dip the wet nails into the powder
    5. Tap and brush off excess powder
    6. Repeat process until you achieve desired coverage (usually 2-3 times)
    7. Apply activator to Harden the nail
    8. Buff and polish

     

    How to remove Quick Dip/Powder Dip nails

    Quick dip nails should be removed according to the following process:-

    1. Clip the artificial nails to the length of the natural nail below.
    2. File the acrylic layer thin using the 100 grit file, without damaging the natural nail.
    3. Fill a glass dish with pure acetone, and leave the nails to soak for several minutes.
    4. Using a tissue, quickly wipe off the substance that has now softened,. The 180 grit of the file can also be used to cautiously file away the substance.
    5. Once the nails have been removed, the hands should be washed and a manicure treatment provided. For the first few hours following the removal of the acrylic, the nails will feel weak. This sensation will disappear by itself. It is recommended that once the nails have been removed, a nail hardener be used. The nail will then recover more quickly! If the acrylic layer is removed for the application of a new overlay, no manicure treatment should be provided. This will simply make the nails moist and greasy, and the new acrylic layer will not adhere well, and the risk of fungal infection will increase.

     

    Our Online Quick Dip course is the perfect go to for theory and practical application of these systems. Learn at your own pace, in your own time and receive an accredited diploma. 

     

  • Which Aesthetic Facial treatment should you choose to meet your client’s skincare needs?

    Which Aesthetic Facial treatment should you choose to meet your client’s skincare needs?

    Smiling woman at an aesthetics clinic

     

    This week’s blog is all about how to differentiate between the various advanced facial tools at our disposal. The beauty of Aesthetic treatments is that its not one show fits all, as professional therapists its our role to investigate and analyse our clients needs and skin concerns and prescribe the best course of action. We’re going to take a deeper look into four popular Aesthetic treatments, what skin they suit and how to use them in combination with one another to get the best results possible!

    Before you make a decision on the treatment or course of treatments your client should embark on a thorough consultation is needed, this is a bookable service with many clinics charging a small fee for their appointment time. A consultation appointment can range between 15-30 minutes. During this time you can request that the client fill in a facial consultation card so that you may find out more information on their skin care goals, current treatment and products they are using as well as their medical history. Once you have a broader understanding of your clients skin needs we recommend having a look at their skin, a detailed analysis will allow you to identify the skin concerns and areas that need focussing on. Following your investigation, with the client you can start to plan the treatment or course of treatments most suitable…

    What methods are available?

    In todays blog we’re going to focus on four of the most popular Aesthetic treatments in the industry, below you will see their benefits and the skins most suitable to enable you to make informed decisions on the best action to take for your clients skin.

    Derma planing 

    What are the benefits?

    • Removes dead skin cells
    • Rids the skin of ‘peach fuzz’
    • Helps to unblock blackheads
    • Generates new healthy cells
    • Creates healthier, smoother more radiant skin.
    • Corrects uneven skin tone and texture
    • Allows greater penetration for skin care products
    • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

    As Derma planing allows for greater penetration of product it works extremely well with Chemical Peels and advanced serums to further increase their efficiency (always check manufacturers guidelines) There is also the option to combine Derma planing with Micro needling, always perform Derma planing first, this would suit a client with dull, thicker/coarse skin with signs of ageing or acne scarring.

    What skin concerns benefit from Derma planing? 

    • Dull, Dry or Dehydrated skin
    • Sun damaged skin in need of brightening
    • Congested Skin (do not perform on active acne breakouts)
    • Premature Ageing

    Micro Needling 

    Client receiving a microneedling facial

    What are the benefits?

    • Helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
    • Reduce the appearance of acne scaring.
    • Refines large pores.
    • Helps products penetrate deeper into the epidermis.
    • Rejuvenates and firms the skin.
    • Brightens the skin through application of products.
    • Can reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
    • Hyper pigmentation.
    • Rosacea
    • Hair restoration

    What skin concerns benefit from Micro needling? 

    • More advanced ageing concerns i.e lines and wrinkles
    • Sun damaged skin in need of brightening
    • Acne scarring (do not perform on breakouts)
    • Stretch marks

    Micro needling works extremely well with LED light therapy, using a red LED light following Micro needling will support the healing process further and help to stimulate collagen production.

     

    LED Light therapy 

    Client receiving LED light therapy

    What are the benefits?

    Benefits:

    • Reduce and heal acne
    • Prevent acne breakouts
    • Reduce age spots
    • Reduce freckles
    • Reduce Hyper pigmentation
    • Reduce sun damage
    • Reduce large pores

    What skin concerns benefit from LED Light therapy? 

    • Sensitive and rosacea skins
    • Acne breakouts
    • Premature ageing
    • Hyper pigmentation

    As a main function of LED light therapy is to promote healing it compliments all Aesthetic treatments. Use after chemical peels, derma planing and micro needling services to promote healing and wound repair.

    Chemical Peels 

    Client receiving an aesthetic facial treatment

    What are the benefits?

    • Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
    • Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging
    • Improve the appearance of mild scars
    • Treat certain types of acne
    •  Reduce age spots, freckles and dark patches (melasma) due to pregnancy or due to taking birth control pills
    • Improve the look and feel of the skin generally.

    What skin concerns benefit from Chemical Peeling? 

    • Dull, Dry or Dehydrated skin
    • Sun damaged skin in need of brightening
    • Congested and Acne prone skin
    • Premature Ageing

    Interested more in Aesthetics? Our Ultimate Aesthetics training package includes everything you need to get started within this arena!

    This training package combines all of our Aesthetics Courses, plus covers knowledge of anatomy and physiology. Ideal for those new to facial treatments / aesthetics and looking to take their beauty career to a specialist level. These lucrative and in-demand treatments will typically earn you between £40-£100 an hour. There has never been a better time to train within advanced facial skincare!

    As part of this two day training course package, you will learn the most popular advanced skincare treatments in the industry and how to combine these treatments to provide specialised and tailored facial skincare to meet the needs of your clients, whether they are seeking clearer skin from acne conditions to skin plumping from the anti-aging benefits. 

  • Should I invest in Microneedling?

    Should I invest in Microneedling?

    Client receiving a microneedling treatment

    Medical microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, has been widely used in aesthetic medicine for many years. The first recorded use of microneedling was in 1905 by German dermatologist Ernst Kromayer. He experimented with various-sized dental burs mounted on motor-driven flexible cord equipment and used this technique to treat scars, birthmarks and hyperpigmentation.

    By 1995, a new technique was discovered by Dr Desmond Fernandes for the treatment of wrinkles and scars with the use of hypodermic needles. Around the same time, Dr Fernandes developed a small needle stamp to induce collagen production. This later led to the development of our modern micro-needling devices.

     

    Collagen induction therapy skin diagram

    What are the benefits of Micro needling? 

    Microneedling works by encouraging your skin to make more collagen.The pinpricks from the procedure causes slight injury to the skin and the skin responds by making new collagen-rich tissue. This new skin tissue is, in turn, more even in tone and texture. Because the needles used in this treatment are so small and penetrate very shallowly into the skin, microneedling is generally not painful. However, it stimulates your body’s natural wound response, forcing your skin to heal. The treatments biggest appeal is the minimal downtime, normally within 24-48 hours.

    • Helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
    • Reduce the appearance of acne scaring.
    • Refines large pores.
    • Helps products penetrate deeper into the epidermis.
    • Rejuvenates and firms the skin.
    • Brightens the skin through application of products.
    • Can reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
    • Hyper pigmentation.
    • Rosacea
    • Hair restoration

     

    Woman using a derma roller on her face

    Derma roller or Derma pen? 

    Skin-needling can be a very personal preference, however more experience will generally leave therapist craving the digital skin needling pen. The skin needling pen can adjust the needle depth and speed for different skin types, thicknesses and also conditions. The puncture wounds with the digital pen are generally finer and can produce more punctures and can be less painful in the skin.

    The digital skin needle pen (dermapen) can be expensive as a first purchase but can work out much more cost effective as the needle heads generally work out a few pounds dependant on where you purchase them. They can be purchased from a 12 pin to 36 pin. The 36 pin can feel more comfortable for the client as the surface area is larger.

    Derma skin rollers can range from £10 to £35 per roller depending upon the supplier. The rollers are available in a variety of needle length options.

    Derma skin rollers create a cone like shape in the skin so can be more painful for the client and also can create more trauma in the skin.

     

    How much can I charge?

    Micro needling treatment costs can vary depending on the area that is being treatment, the products and the combination of other modalities such as peels and LED light therapy. Treatments would usually start at around £150 per session, typically clients need 3-5 sessions to treat a more advanced concern such as acne scarring but may see improvement after the first session. Many clinics and skin centres will offer a consultation prior to a treatment session for the therapist to assist the treatments needed and provide the client with a quote for their services, including the amount and frequency of the treatments. Microneedling for larger areas of scarring such as areas of the body for scarring and stretch marks can start at £250 per session ranging to £450 for a longer session time.

     

    How do I train? 

    Our half day Micro needling course is an intensive advanced facial skincare training course that will teach you to deliver these in-demand treatments with confidence.

    The course will cover the following areas:

    • Revise Skin Anatomy & Physiology
    • Health & Safety
    • Correct selection & use of products/tools
    • Overview of Microneedling
    • Consultation & Contraindications
    • Treatment Procedure
    • Homecare & Aftercare

    As part of this course, you will complete online study prior to attending the practical training to cover the essential theory around anatomy, physiology, health and safety and theory of the treatment. Our team will also contact you by phone for a mini-consultation prior to confirming your training place to ensure you are free of contra-indications to fully participate in the training & hold the entry requirement qualifications.

  • Ultimate guide to Kim K Lashes

    Ultimate guide to Kim K Lashes

    Celebrity at a red carpet event with a full, wispy lash look

    What is the Kim K Lash look

    The Kim K Lash look focusses on creating a wispy, spiked look. It’s a style that’s becoming increasingly popular with clients. This look is designed around applying longer lashes at equally distanced points along the map, this creates a fuller, fluffier look. Ideal for clients with smaller eyes and a high set brow, this map can create the illusion of larger eyes. This is a map that benefits from a lot of practice!

    To create the perfect Kim K look the key to master a wispy lash map. You will need to determine which lengths and where to place the spiked lashes to create an even volumed lash. Let’s take a close look at the method..

    Prepare your equipment: You will need your usual lash equipment such as eye pads and lash mapping pen in addition you may want to have some tape at hand for use during the application. An ideal tweezer would be a multifunctional tweezer that can be used with Classic and Volume extensions.

    Wispy lash set diagram

    Before you begin your Kim K Map: Following your clients natural lashes lash line and evenly mark the areas you will be applying your spikes, start at the peak points to create a frame for your map. When creating your spikes it can work best to create various lengths for a more natural/wispy result. Once you have mapped where to apply your spikes we would suggest applying these first prior to filling in the gaps with the following lashes.

    Close-up of 5D volume eyelash extensions

    Filling in the gaps: Once you have applied your spikes, you’re ready to start filling in the lashes. The highest point of your lash map should be the middle or outer corner of the lash line, depending on whether you would like more of a foxy look! Professional recommendations would be to use 2 to 3mm shorter volume lashes to attach between spikes. If you choose to use 11 and 12mm for spikes in inner corners, the filling lashes in this area should be 9 and 10mm.

    Remember that practice makes perfect and you may not create the perfect set to start with, stick with it and the more you do the more confident you will become! If you have a lash map you would like to share tag us on your socials @thebeautyacademyuk 

  • Ingredients to avoid with Lash Extensions

    Ingredients to avoid with Lash Extensions

    Worried woman looking at her eyelashes

     

    As a Lash Tech we appreciate it can be frustrating having clients return for an infill only to find a few hairs have stuck around! Often these clients require additional information on how to promote the longevity of their lashes. Many of their skin care and make up products could be unknowingly causing their lashes to fall out sooner than expected due to their ingredients. In today’s blog we’re looking at the main ingredients to avoid to maintain the longevity of your clients lashes.

     

    Water droplets on waterproof fabric

    Waterproof make up 

    There are two issues with waterproof make up and Lash extensions, the first is that may long-stay or waterproof products contain oils which over time break down the bonds within the glue and cause the lashes to fall out. The second problem is that they are very hard to cleanse off, which would require the client to either use an alcohol or oil based product which can have a negative impact on lashes. It may also lead to clients picking and rubbing the product which will add to premature lash loss.

    Instead of waterproof make up we suggest using a non-waterproof make up and a lash friendly cleanser and to always use a lash shampoo to maintain their lashes at home.

     

    Cosmetic oil dripping from a pipette

    Oil based products 

    Oil based products are perhaps the biggest culprit for lash loss. Lash glues contain ingredients that are easily broken down when exposed to oils, oils break down the bonds needed to maintain the effectiveness of the glue. Encourage your clients to check their cleansers, moisturisers and serums for oil based ingredients and avoid using these around the eyes.

    What about using oil to remove lashes? This is a question that comes up regularly and although oils dissolve the bonds of the glue we wouldn’t suggest using at home oils such as baby oil to remove lashes, this is because they aren’t affective enough to remove all of the adhesive. Always suggest that they have their lashes professionally removed to ensure all product is taken away.

     

    Woman applying toner to a cotton pad

    Alcohol  

    Another common ingredient in the skin care industry, alcohol is extremely drying to the skin and lashes. It will often be listed as Isopropyl Alcohol or Isopropyl Myristate, encourage client to check their skincare products as the drier their natural lashes the less retention they will have.

  • Can I use Stickers with Gel Polish?

    Can I use Stickers with Gel Polish?

    Lilac manicure holding purple flowers

     

    Noticed an increase in floral nails on your social feeds over the last few weeks? You may be part of the lucky few holding the skills (and patience!) to freehand these intricate designs, if freehand painting is something you’re still practicing there is a simpler and faster technique to achieve this sort-after spring look! In this weeks blog were taking a look at our quick guide for incorporating stickers into your Gel Polish treatments.

    What will I need?

    1. Nail file and cuticle tools
    2. Lint free wipes
    3. Acetone and dehydrator
    4. UV/LED lamp
    5. Gel base and top coat
    6. Gel colours of your choice
    7. Tweezers
    8. Nail Stickers
    9. Cuticle oil

    Step by Step

    1. Prep the nails
    2. Apply Base coat and cure
    3. Apply a single layer of your chosen base colour and cure
    4. Apply another layer of your base colour and cure
    5. Using your tweezers delicately apply the nail sticker to the nail, being careful to press down lightly to avoid denting the last layer. Remember at the stage the nail will have a tacky residue, ensure you apply accurately as you wont be able to remove the sticker and try again!
    6. Finish with application of top coat, curing and don’t forget the Cuticle Oil!

     

    In need of some inspiration?

    Red French manicure with rose nail stickers

    Nude manicure with black floral sticker accent nails

    Burgundy gel manicure with line art accent nails

     

     

     

     

  • Top non-invasive Facial tools

    Top non-invasive Facial tools

    Jade facial roller and gua sha with skincare products

    With a recent increase in demand for Advanced Aesthetic procedures it can be easy to forget the various non-invasive tools at our disposal both in and out of the treatment room. Tools designed to lift, sculpt and impact the health of the skin. In this weeks blog we’ll look at the benefits of such tools and how to incorporate them into at-home and Facial treatments.

    Gua Sha

    Woman using a rose quartz gua sha on her face

    The ancient tool of Gua Sha was developed in China and has deep roots with eastern medicine practices. Traditionally used to help remove stagnant ‘Chi’ energy, the practice of using Gua sha to rub the skins surface would help to balance and promote healing. In modern practice the use of Gua Sha within Facials and during an at home routine can promote circulation, bringing much needed nutrients to the surface of the skin, increasing luminosity and toning. A versatile tool, it can be used with the majority of products such as cleansers, masks and serums.

     

    Cryo Ice globes 

    Client receiving a facial with ice globes

    A favourite with Acne and sensitive skins these tools are a fantastic addition to soothe and relieve puffiness. The cooling effect of the globes when massaged onto the skin will elevate puffy eyes, constricting capillaries to reduce redness and reduce inflammatory acne breakouts. An ideal companion to chemical peels, these globes can also be used with cooling masks or as part of a massage. Ice globes can also be used on the body to reduce oedema perfect for summer months!

    Silicone Facial Brushes 

    Woman using a facial cleansing brush

    Vibrating silicone face brushes can increase the power of your cleanse by up to 5 times! Perfect for dull, congested skin in need of a deep clean. Incorporate as part of a second cleanse. Silicone is easy to clean and drys faster than traditional facial brushes meaning no bacteria is left behind after rinsing!

    LED Therapy

    Client receiving LED light therapy

    LED Light Therapy works to soothe the skin, it is a relaxing treatment to receive and also offers hugely rejuvenating benefits to the skin when offered as a standalone treatment. The benefits of LED light therapy for facial treatments include treating acne, regulating natural oil production, stimulating collagen and elastin and minimising redness and wrinkles. LED light therapy has also been used for decades to boost the speed of healing and cell renewal, so is an ideal treatment to follow and finish other advanced aesthetics treatments such as Dermaplaning, Microneedling or Skin Peel.

    Facial cupping 

    Client receiving a facial cupping massage

    A scaled down version of body cupping, facial cupping has very similar benefits. Using soft cups to create a vacuum suction effect to stimulating circulation to the facial tissues. Increased circulation will promote cell repair, elevate tension and aid regeneration. Ideal for sluggish dull skin tones, cupping with promote a brighter more youthful complexion. Ideally carried out in a series of treatments for the best results.

    Facial Yoga 

    Sequence of facial exercise poses

    More of an at-home technique, introducing our clients to facial yoga will help to reduce muscle tension that can lead to fine lines and wrinkles. Another eastern approach, facial yoga has been used for generations as a non-invasive way to reduce ageing and prolong a youthful, firm skin tone.

     

     

     

     

     

  • Start a Career in Aesthetics

    Start a Career in Aesthetics

     

    Aesthetics treatment being applied to a client's face

    The Facial and Aesthetics Industry has boomed over the last decade, with net growth expanding year on year. However there are some challenges with this ever expanding industry. With a lack of regulation and standards comes an increase in unregulated training and clinics lacking the essential knowledge, qualifications and insurance to perform effective treatments.

    If you are just starting out it can be hard to navigate where to go for the right training essential to gain insurance. Here is our guide for getting started with Aesthetics.

    Pre requisites for study

    As Aesthetic treatments are advanced treatments that can impact the skin on a molecular level, you will need to have the skills and knowledge to safely deliver these services to your clients. To gain the most from these advanced courses, before undertaking our Aesthetic training courses, we set the minimum pre requirement as:

    Do check with your future insurance provider for these treatments prior to booking as the pre requirements for insurance can vary significantly between providers with some being happy to accept simply an accredited diploma in Facial Skincare, whereas others set the minimum standard as VTCT qualifications at Level 2 and/or Level 3, depending on the specific treatments you wish to be insured for.

    Where Level 2 and/or 3 is required, we recommend the following qualification courses which allow you to gain knowledge of a range of treatments for a good all-round beauty skill set. These can be booked and studied alongside our Aesthetics courses to fast-track your studies:

    OR

     

    Or for those want to specialise purely in skincare and aesthetics, to fast track your career, save you money on training costs (and as accepted by your insurer), we highly recommend simply taking these courses alongside our Aesthetics courses:

     

    Choosing the right treatment for your business

    There are a variety of treatments available and these are expanding regularly. Here are some examples of current popular treatments.

    • Dermaplaning offers deep exfoliation removing dead skin cells, blockages, make up and vellus hair from the upper layer of the surface of the skin using a surgical scalpel to refine skin.
    • Microneedling also known as dermarolling or collagen induction therapy is administered using a dermaroller or automated pen applicator to stimulate collagen growth and repairing of skin.
    • Skin Peels, often known also as ‘chemical’ peels work using natural acids to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells using specialised products applied topically to the skin.
    • LED Light Therapy works to soothe the skin, boosting natural skin healing following more invasive treatments and is hugely rejuvenating for the skin. 

     

    Accreditation and Insurance

    In order to gain insurance you will be required to present your insurance company with an accredited certificate. Beware of courses out there which only provide a CPD registered certificate as these are not widely accepted for insurance, as many do not involve hands-on practical as part of the course. An accredited certificate proves that you have completed training with a reputable training provider that meets the standards of the industry and demonstrated practical competence as part of the course. It is important to do your research when decided on which courses to undertake. Here at The Beauty Academy, all of our Classroom based courses are accredited by Associated Beauty Therapists (ABT) and are fully insurable.

     

    Marketing your treatments

    Now is the time to start promoting the treatments to your clients. Your current Facial clients are the ideal place to start, these treatments will also attract new clients more interested in instant results! Below are a few ways to get started with promoting the new treatments.

    Existing Facial clients:

    • Send out e-blast messages sharing the benefits of the new treatments
    • Hold a launch event, offer mini treatment tasters and demonstrations, these could be themed around the festive season or ‘new year new you’
    • Run an introductory offer for your loyal clients
    • Change your answering phone message to highlight ‘what’s new’
    • Link to your retail products as a way of maintaining their skin and increasing retail/treatment sales, i.e. ‘book a course of treatments and receive a free mini kit’

     

    Target potential new clients:

    • Grow your social media presence, videos tend to receive more interaction than photos. Why not vlog your training journey?
    • Connect with local businesses, do you have a local bridal shop? Hairdressers? Why not team up to promote each others business, you could throw in a treatment to sweeten the deal!

     

    Take your career further…

    Once you are working in the aesthetics industry or offering these treatments within your own beauty business, you may decide you want to take your career further and begin offering courses or teaching aesthetics treatments to other aspiring therapists and aestheticians. You might like to consider the VTCT Level 3 in Education & Training, which is the gold standard sought by insurers and accrediting bodies to allow you to teach or offer training within these courses. This can be studied on a flexible, fast track basis entirely online from home so is ideal for a busy therapist!

     

     

  • The Perfect Spring Marble

    The Perfect Spring Marble

    Blue marble nail art

     

    Create a perfect spring nail look with this simple yet effective marbling technique! 

     

    What will I need?

    1. Nail file and cuticle tools
    2. Lint free wipes
    3. Acetone and dehydrator
    4. UV/LED lamp
    5. Gel base and top coat
    6. Gel colours of your choice
    7. Fine brush (striper brush)
    8. Cuticle oil

    Step by Step

    1. Prep the nails
    2. Apply Base coat and cure
    3. Apply a single layer of your chosen base colour and cure
    4. Apply another layer of your base colour, this time avoid curing and move onto the next step
    5. Apply spots of your other chosen colour/colours to the uncured nail and using a clean fine brush, swirl the colours into your desired design. Cure the nails.
    6. Finish with application of top coat, curing and don’t forget the Cuticle Oil!

    In need of some inspiration?

    Soft pink marble nail art against a pink sweater Amber marble nail art with gold flakes Milky white nails with blue marble accent nails Pink marble nails

     

     

     

     

  • Getting Started with Online Courses

    Getting Started with Online Courses

    Updated 1st November 2024. Achieving a recognised beauty qualification couldn’t be easier with our Accredited Online courses. Learn at your own pace, in your own time and start your own business! If you’re new to Online Courses this blog will be a useful guide through getting started with your Online Course. Person studying an online course on a laptop

    What’s Involved

    Our online courses are completed through our industry leading, user friendly Online Student Portal. You receive access to a wealth of high quality learning resources, written by beauty professionals including comprehensive e-manuals and detailed step by step video demonstrations. You can watch the videos as many times as you need. We include fun multiple choice online tests which are great for checking your understanding and can be retaken instantly, as often as you need to pass. When you feel ready, you will practice on friends / family or training hand / head as relevant to the course. You need to provide evidence of 3 case studies which are submitted easily by email and assessed against industry standards to ensure your proficiency with the treatment skills. Individual feedback to help you improve and you simply resubmit as needed until you are at a successful level to achieve. Typically students complete these courses within 2-6 weeks (committing around 2-10 hours per week to study), although you have 12 weeks to access the course resources on the portal should you need to go slower. Students can take up to 12 months to email over their case study evidence for certification, so plenty of time to practice your skills to full confidence.

    The Student Portal 

    Once you have registered for your course you will receive an email with your link to access the Student Portal. The Student portal can be accessed through desktop, tablet and phones. If you are using a tablet or phone there is an app available to download, simply visit the App Store and search SAP LITMOS. When prompted for a domain enter: thebeautyacademy followed by your log in details. We recommend your first point of call when you log in is the additional resources tab in your course, here you will find your practical case study materials, including consultation and feedback forms. Save this pdf file to your device or print for use when ready to start practising.

    Guidance on Case Studies 

    You will receive a detailed list of required products and equipment as part of your online course resources. Optional, selected kits are available to purchase through our website. Other beauty wholesale companies are available such as Salon Services or websites like Amazon, to allow you to source basic items to get started. Courses are not brand-specific so you can use any brand / supplier you prefer for case studies. When you have completed your case studies email in to [email protected] and attach your before and after photos along with your client consultation form and feedback form for each treatment required. Your case studies will be evaluated with your certificate and/or feedback provided by email within no more than 7 working days.

    Getting Started Once Qualified

    Once you’ve achieved your online course certificate(s), you can purchase public liability (beauty treatment) insurance to begin offering your services to paying clients. We do not provide insurance ourselves but recommend several leading insurers. You can find more about our recommended insurers on our website. You’ll already have your products from completing your case studies. You’ll need a brand for your business – a solid name and logo. You also need to decide what basis you want to work on – from home, mobile etc. You’ll also need to register for self-assessment if starting your own business with HMRC for tax reasons. You will also need to keep records of any income earnt and any costs (along with receipts). You may want to seek advice from an accountant to get this set up initially. If you’re new to running a business, you may find our Starting a Business in Beauty Course useful. For marketing, you’ll need to set up social media profiles on Instagram, Facebook and even Tiktok to begin promoting your beauty business. You can also get word of mouth promotion by networking with other local businesses (e.g. hairdressers, wedding suppliers etc.) or local organisations (schools, parents groups, charities etc.) to promote your services, perhaps with an open evening offering taster treatments or gift vouchers for raffle prizes. You may want to print some business cards and a price list to share with them. Always remember to take before / after photos of your results to share online and encourage clients to share their lashes or nails on social media tagging you to help gather word of mouth. It will take a little time and patience to build a loyal client base. It is recommended to promote discounted block bookings for a course of treatments or encourage clients to book their next treatment before they leave each appointment. This helps plan future business and get your appointment diary full. Gift vouchers are also a great way to get some initial income flowing, especially around seasonal events like Mother’s Day or Christmas. If you need help with your selling skills, you might like to consider our Sales Skills for Beauty Course. From client feedback you gauge what future treatments you might like to learn and offer, taking on further Online Courses as required to develop the skills to keep your business going from strength to strength. Typically it takes around 6-24 months to establish a new business. For inspiration, why not take a look at some of our previous students’ success stories.

    See a sample of our Online Student Portal & Quality Course Content
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  • Spring Make up trends 2022

    Spring Make up trends 2022

    Make-up products including eyeshadow, brushes and lipstick

    The weather is starting to brighten up and so is our make up. This year is all about paring modern looks with the nostalgia of times past to create the ultimate spring make up looks!

     

    Bare face beauty 

    Two smiling women with glowing skin

    This spring is all about the skin you’re in! Embracing a lighter coverage concealer and foundation and focussing on skin health. Regular skin treatments are a must! At home amp up your skin care routine to increase hydration and a dewy glow with masks and serums containing hyaluronic acid, a hero ingredient in the skin care industry!

     

    Glossy lips 

    Pink lip gloss being applied

    2021 gave us #flashbackvibes and it looks like the 90s trends are here to stay with one of the top trends predicted for this years spring/summer runways being the ultra-wet/glossy lip!

     

    Fluffy Natural Brows

    Close-up of laminated and tinted eyebrows

    Brow lamination is becoming the most requested, go-to brow treatment in the industry, creating fuller fluffier brows is this years must have! Create natural, fluffy brows at home with brow sculpting products.

     

    Back to the 80s!

    Woman with bright pink eye make-up

    Neon is back and we are living for it! These bright, bold statement eyes are the perfect look for spring 2022. Leave the neutral tones in 2021 now is the time to be daring!

     

    Sparkle and Dazzle! 

    Man with colourful eye make-up and a flower

     

    Another daring look is embellishment! A look straight off the runways, embellished eyes are a perfect spring/summer trend.