Level 5 Certificate in Advanced Chemical Peels (UK Accredited)
✨ Build deep, practical expertise in chemical peeling — grounded in science, safety, and compliant clinical practice.
This Ofqual-regulated, OTHM-awarded qualification is delivered by the National Aesthetics Training Academy (NATA), a registered JCCP education provider.
It is designed for healthcare professionals and experienced beauty therapists who want to confidently deliver advanced, insurer-recognised chemical peel treatments across diverse client groups.
Who this qualification is for
- Healthcare practitioners (nurses, doctors, dentists, pharmacists, paramedics) seeking to extend into aesthetic dermatology.
- Experienced beauty therapists looking for a regulated and insurable pathway into advanced chemical peeling.
- Professionals seeking credibility, safe protocols, and real-world results.
At a glance
- Award: Level 5 Certificate in Advanced Chemical Peels (RQF)
- Regulation: Ofqual-regulated, OTHM-awarded
- Recognition: Accepted by major UK insurers (device/product dependent)
- Delivery: Video lectures • Core reading • Observation • Practical assessment
- Duration: 6–12 weeks (self-paced, with tutor support)
- Assessment: MCQs/SAQs • Case portfolio • Observed practical • Professional discussion
What you’ll be able to do
By completion, you will be able to:
✔ Assess skin types (Fitzpatrick I–VI), conditions, and risk for safe peel selection.
✔ Explain acid chemistry — AHAs, BHAs, PHAs, TCA, Jessner — and their clinical effects.
✔ Plan & perform very superficial, superficial, and medium-depth peels (scope-dependent).
✔ Differentiate when to neutralise vs. when peels are self-limiting; follow IFUs precisely.
✔ Design indication-specific protocols (photoageing, acne, pigmentation, texture).
✔ Apply aseptic technique, manage complications, and escalate when required.
✔ Prepare and support patients with evidence-based priming and aftercare.
✔ Operate within UK law, advertising codes, GDPR, and insurer expectations.
Programme structure
Foundations of Peeling
Skin anatomy • Wound healing • Depth classification • Indications & contraindications
Acid Chemistry & Formulations
AHA, BHA, PHA, TCA, Jessner • Molecular size, diffusion, and clinical application • Free acid value • pH and buffering • CE/UKCA context
Parameters, Neutralisation & Safety
Dosage design • Clinical end-points • Neutralisation principles • Asepsis & environmental safety
Protocols by Indication
Photoageing • Acne • Dyschromias (melasma/PIH) • Rosacea-prone skin • Body applications
Preparation, Priming & Aftercare
Medication screening • HSV prophylaxis • Degreasing & protection • Barrier repair & staged re-introduction of actives
Complications & Governance
Erythema, blistering, PIH • Red flags • Record-keeping, consent & photography standards • Insurer scope alignment
Professional Practice & Business
Treatment planning • Ethical pricing • Inclusive communication • Home-care integration
Scope note: Beauty therapists are practically signed off for very superficial and superficial peels; medium-depth peels are taught for theory/decision-making.
How you’ll learn
- 🎥 Video lectures with end-point visuals and clinical walkthroughs.
- 📚 Core reading: journal extracts, standards, checklists.
- 👀 Observation – shadow approved clinical sessions or submit annotated treatment videos.
- 💬 Tutor support – feedback clinics and structured written guidance.
Assessment
- Knowledge tests – MCQs and SAQs.
- Case portfolio – documented treatments with parameters, outcomes, and reflection.
- Observed practical (OSCE) – live (virtual/in-clinic) or recorded.
- Professional discussion – governance, safety, and decision-making.
- Awarding – OTHM certification on demonstration of safe, effective practice.
Entry requirements
- Healthcare route: NMC, GMC, GDC, GPhC, HCPC registration (or equivalent).
- Therapist route: Level 3+ in Beauty/Aesthetics and foundational skin experience.
- Must be 18+, proficient in English, with access to a clinical/therapy setting for practice.
Why train with NATA?
- Ofqual-regulated, OTHM-awarded, JCCP-registered provider.
- Insurer-recognised qualification with practical sign-off.
- Evidence-based protocols for immediate use in practice.
- Inclusive training, safe across all skin tones.
- Flexible online delivery with structured assessments and feedback.
FAQs
Which peels can I perform after qualification?
Within your scope and insurer terms, you’ll be signed off for very superficial and superficial peels. Medium-depth peels are covered in theory.
Is this recognised by insurers?
Yes. This Ofqual-regulated Level 5 Certificate is accepted by major UK insurers.
Can I treat darker skin tones?
Yes. Training includes conservative, evidence-based protocols for Fitzpatrick IV–VI, minimising PIH risk.
Fees & what’s included
- Access to all learning modules and curated reading.
- Observation opportunities (in-clinic or video submission).
- Tutor feedback and support.
- All assessments: exams, portfolio, practical OSCE, professional discussion.
💬 For current fees and payment plans, please contact admissions.
Enrol today
👉 [Apply Now] – start your journey
👉 [Request a Course Guide] – full syllabus and assessment details
👉 [Speak to Admissions] – entry route advice
📧 info@nataonline.co.uk
📞 +44 (0)330 333 6293
🌐 nataonline.co.uk
National Aesthetics Training Academy (NATA) – an Ofqual-regulated, OTHM-awarded, JCCP-registered education provider, setting the standard in aesthetic medicine training.