VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Award in Skin Peeling
Next Start Date | 19th July 2026
Train in a professional chemical peel course and gain a VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 qualification, allowing you to perform AHA, BHA, and combined peel treatments safely and within professional practice.
✔ Individual treatment rooms
✔ Max 4 students per class
✔ Hands-on training on real models
✔ Learn AHA, BHA & combined peel treatments
✔ Fully insurable qualification
£1,300
Available!
Professional Chemical Peels Training – Master Advanced Skin Peeling
The VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Award in Skin Peeling is a professional chemical peel course in London designed for qualified beauty therapists looking to specialise in advanced skin treatments. It provides learners with the clinical knowledge and practical skills to perform AHA, BHA, and combined chemical peel treatments safely and effectively.
After completing this course, students can work in aesthetic clinics, medical spas, or salon settings offering professional skin rejuvenation treatments.
This VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 qualification is fully insurable and recognised across the UK aesthetic industry.
About This Level 4 Skin Peeling Qualification
Duration: 8 weeks (one day per week)
Schedule: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Class Size: Maximum 4 students
Training Setup: Individual treatment rooms for practical sessions
Location: Ladbroke Grove, London (10 minute walk from the station)
This VTCT (ITEC) Level 4 Award in Skin Peeling is an accredited qualification that prepares you to perform professional chemical peel treatments within a clinical environment. Upon completion, you will be qualified to offer AHA, BHA, and combined chemical peel treatments in aesthetic clinics, medical spas, or salon settings.
This Level 4 qualification is designed for beauty therapists looking to specialise in advanced skin treatments and progress within aesthetic practice.
You’ll need:
✓ Prior Qualifications: A Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification or Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy Treatments (essential)
✓ Foundational Knowledge: Understanding of skin anatomy, facial treatments, and professional consultation skills
✓ English Language: Good speaking, reading, writing, and understanding (essential for safety protocols and client consultations)
✓ Age: Minimum 19 years
This Level 4 chemical peels course is perfect if you:
✓ Are a qualified beauty therapist wanting to specialise in advanced aesthetic treatments
✓ Want to work in aesthetic clinics, medical spas, or high-end London salons
✓ Are interested in results-driven treatments with visible client outcomes
✓ Want to offer premium services commanding higher treatment prices
✓ Prefer intensive training in individual treatment rooms with small class sizes
✓ Value personalised attention from experienced tutors
Don’t meet the requirements yet? Contact us – we can advise on the best pathway to get you qualified (like our Level 3 Access To Aesthetic Therapies course in Ladbroke Grove).
This comprehensive 8-week course covers all essential knowledge and skills for professional chemical peel treatments:
Skin Science and Peel Chemistry
Understanding how chemical peels work:
• Advanced skin anatomy and physiology for chemical peeling
• Understanding the epidermis, dermis, and how peels work at different depths
• pH levels and acid formulations
• Fitzpatrick skin types and ethnic skin considerations
• How different acids interact with skin cells
• The science behind skin regeneration and collagen stimulation
• Understanding keratolytic action and exfoliation
Types of Chemical Peels
Master all professional peel types:
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) Peels
• Glycolic Acid Peels: Strengths, uses, application techniques for anti-ageing and texture
• Lactic Acid Peels: Gentle alternative for sensitive skin, hydrating properties
• Mandelic Acid Peels: Best for ethnic skin, acne, and pigmentation concerns
• Understanding water-soluble acids and surface exfoliation
• Selecting appropriate strengths (20% to 70%)
BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) Peels
• Salicylic Acid Peels: Oil-soluble penetration for oily and acne-prone skin
• Strengths and applications (15% to 30%)
• Treating congested pores and active acne
• Understanding lipophilic properties
Combination Peel Techniques
• Layering and combining different acids for enhanced results
• Progressive peel protocols within professional guidelines
• Customising treatments based on skin type and condition
• Understanding how to safely adapt treatments within Level 4 scope
Professional Treatment Protocols
Safe, effective chemical peel application:
Client Consultation and Assessment
• Comprehensive skin analysis and Fitzpatrick typing
• Understanding client goals and setting realistic expectations
• Medical history and contraindications screening
• Photography and consent documentation
• Creating personalised treatment plans
Contraindications and Safety
When NOT to perform chemical peels:
• Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) use – absolute contraindication
• Active infections, cold sores, open wounds
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Recent facial surgery or laser treatments
• Certain medications (photosensitising drugs, blood thinners)
• Keloid scarring tendency
• Unrealistic expectations or body dysmorphia
• When to refer clients to dermatologists
Pre-Treatment Preparation
• Skin priming protocols (2-4 weeks before treatment)
• Home care products to prepare skin
• Patch testing and test areas
• Managing client anxiety and education
Application Techniques
• Professional setup and health and safety
• Cleansing and degreasing skin properly
• Even application methods (brush, gauze, cotton buds)
• Layering techniques for combination peels
• Timing and monitoring during treatment
• Reading visual cues (erythema, frosting, client comfort)
• Neutralisation techniques (when required)
• Post-treatment soothing and sun protection
Aftercare and Home Care
• Post-peel protocols and expected reactions
• Managing the peeling process (flaking, shedding)
• Sun protection and lifestyle advice
• Home care products and retail opportunities
• When to contact you vs. when to seek medical advice
• Treatment intervals and scheduling follow-ups
Managing Different Skin Concerns
Tailoring peels for specific conditions:
• Anti-ageing: Fine lines, wrinkles, loss of firmness
• Pigmentation: Melasma, sun damage, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Acne and oily skin: Active breakouts, congestion, enlarged pores
• Acne scarring: Atrophic scars, ice pick scars, texture irregularities
• Rosacea and sensitivity: Selecting gentle peels, managing redness
• Ethnic skin: Understanding PIH risks, choosing appropriate acids
Risk Management and Complications
Professional safety protocols:
• Understanding potential adverse reactions (burns, hyperpigmentation)
• Managing complications if they occur
• When to seek medical advice or refer clients
• Insurance requirements and professional indemnity
• Informed consent and client record keeping
• Professional standards and regulations
In your individual treatment room throughout the 8 weeks, you’ll practise chemical peel treatments on real clients, developing the clinical knowledge and practical confidence needed for professional aesthetic practice.
Schedule: One day per week for 8 weeks
Hours: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Class Size: Maximum 4 students
Training Setup: Individual treatment rooms for practical sessions
Location: Ladbroke Grove, London (10 minute walk from the tube station)
What Makes Our Chemical Peels Training Different:
Chemical peels require precise application, timing, and professional judgement when working with acids. At Portobello Aesthetics Training Academy in Ladbroke Grove, you train in individual treatment rooms with just 4 students – ensuring you develop proper techniques without the distractions of large classroom environments.
Why individual treatment rooms matter for chemical peels training:
• Professional environment – Work exactly as you would in a real clinic setting
• Focus and concentration – No distractions when timing treatments and monitoring skin reactions
• Client privacy – Professional treatment experience for your models
• Proper equipment setup – Learn correct product arrangement and workflow
• Individual attention – Your tutor focuses on your specific technique and helps you improve
Progressive Training Over 8 Weeks:
Weeks 1-2: Skin science, peel chemistry, introduction to AHA peels (glycolic and lactic acid), theory and demonstrations
Weeks 3-4: Practical AHA peel sessions, mandelic acid, introduction to BHA peels (salicylic acid), hands-on practice with supervision
Weeks 5-6: BHA practical sessions, combination peels, introduction to advanced peel protocols, safety protocols
Weeks 7-8: Combination peel techniques, progressive treatment planning, final assessments, business planning
Throughout: Building your portfolio, completing case studies, receiving feedback on technique, and developing confidence with each peel type before progressing to more advanced treatment approaches
You Don’t Need to Worry About:
✓ Individual Treatment Room Access – Professional space for chemical peels practice throughout your 8-week training
✓ Professional Chemical Peel Products – All AHA, BHA, and combined peel solutions provided
✓ All Treatment Supplies – Neutralisers, post-peel products, PPE, application tools
✓ Models Provided – We arrange models for your practical sessions (or you can bring your own if you prefer)
✓ Comprehensive Course Materials – Manuals covering peel chemistry, protocols, consent forms, aftercare sheets
✓ VTCT (ITEC) Registration & Assessment Fees – All included (no hidden costs)
What You Need to Bring:
✓ Uniform: Tunic, black trousers, flat closed-toe shoes
✓ Models: We provide models for your practical sessions (you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer)
✓ Commitment: Attend all 8 weekly sessions for progressive learning
You’ll be assessed through:
✓ Practical Assessments – You will complete 6 practical assessments, performing chemical peel treatments using AHA, BHA, and combined peel techniques in a clinical environment.
✓ Theoretical Assessments – You will complete 1 online exam covering peel chemistry, skin science, and safety protocols.
Assessment takes place throughout your course, not as separate exam days. Your tutor provides ongoing feedback, so you’ll know exactly where you stand before final assessment.
Upon Successful Completion:
You’ll receive your VTCT Skills (ITEC) Level 4 Award in Skin Peeling that:
✓ Qualifies you to perform professional chemical peel treatments in aesthetic clinics and salons across London
✓ Enables you to obtain professional insurance for chemical peels services
✓ Is recognised by employers and professional bodies in the aesthetic industry
✓ Allows you to offer AHA, BHA, and combined peels professionally
✓ Opens doors to advanced aesthetic careers in London’s growing industry
The Level 4 Award in Skin Peeling provides learners with advanced chemical peels skills needed to work in aesthetic clinics, medical spas, and high-end salons. Chemical peels command premium pricing and attract results-driven clients seeking visible skin improvements.
Career Opportunities with Level 4 Chemical Peels:
• Aesthetic Clinics and Medical Spas – Many London clinics specifically seek therapists qualified in chemical peels
• High-End Salons – Offering advanced treatments elevates salon services and clientele
• Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Clinics – Working alongside medical professionals
• Add to existing practice – Build on your Level 3 beauty therapy services with advanced aesthetics
• Self-employed practitioner – Mobile or clinic-based chemical peels services
Why Chemical Peels is a Good Career Choice:
✓ Premium pricing – £80-£200+ per treatment in London depending on peel type and area
✓ Course packages – Clients often need 3-6 peels for optimal results (recurring revenue)
✓ Retail opportunities – Home care products add additional income
✓ Growing demand – Results-driven treatments are increasingly popular
✓ Specialist skill – Not all therapists are qualified in chemical peels
✓ Career progression – Gateway to other Level 4 aesthetic treatments
Further Training Opportunities:
After completing chemical peels, many practitioners choose to expand their treatment offering by progressing onto additional advanced skin treatments.
• Level 4 Skin Needling (Microneedling)
Chemical peels also combine effectively with microneedling, allowing you to deliver more advanced and results-driven skin rejuvenation treatments for your clients.
For those looking to build a long-term career in aesthetics, progressing onto a full Level 4 qualification provides a broader, industry-recognised pathway into advanced skin treatments.
But Here’s What Really Matters:
Even after completing chemical peels training and starting to offer treatments, you can contact your tutor for advice.
Questions about challenging clients? Need guidance on appropriate peel selection? Want advice about managing post-treatment reactions?
We’re here for you.
That’s the PATA difference – you’re part of our professional network for life.
Your Pathway to Chemical Peels Expertise
This course is designed to develop your knowledge and practical ability in professional skin peeling. Throughout the 8 weeks, you will build an understanding of peel chemistry, acid selection, application techniques, and safe treatment protocols.
You will gain hands-on experience working with AHA, BHA, and combined chemical peel treatments in a clinical setting, allowing you to develop the confidence required to perform treatments safely and effectively.
Many practitioners choose to combine chemical peels with microneedling to deliver more advanced and results-driven skin rejuvenation treatments.
What Makes Our Level 4 Chemical Peels Training Different
Individual Treatment Rooms for Chemical Peels Practice
Unlike many training environments where students share space, you will practise chemical peel treatments in individual treatment rooms. This allows you to focus on application techniques, timing, and client management without distraction, working in a professional clinical setup.
Small Class Size – Maximum 4 Students
Chemical peel treatments require precision and individual attention. With a maximum of 4 students per course, you will receive direct guidance from experienced tutors, allowing your technique and decision-making to be closely supported throughout your training.
Comprehensive 8-Week Format
This course is structured over 8 weeks (one day per week), allowing you to progress from superficial peels through to more advanced treatment approaches. You will build your knowledge and practical skills gradually, developing confidence with each stage.
Professional-Grade Products
You will train using clinical-grade chemical peel solutions, gaining an understanding of product formulations, pH levels, strengths, and how to select appropriate treatments for different skin types and conditions.
Expert Tutors with Extensive Aesthetic Experience
You will be taught by experienced aesthetic practitioners who regularly perform chemical peel treatments in professional settings, providing practical insight into safe and effective treatment delivery.
Looking to Offer More Advanced Skin Treatments?
If you are planning to offer both chemical peels and microneedling, you can enrol on our combined course package to expand your treatment offering.
Alternatively, if you are looking to progress further, our VTCT Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Aesthetic Therapies provides a broader pathway into aesthetic practice.
Questions You’re Probably Asking About Chemical Peels Training
Do I need to be qualified in beauty therapy already?
Yes – this is a Level 4 course which means you must already hold a Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification. This ensures you have foundational knowledge of skin anatomy, facial treatments, consultation skills, and professional working practices. Chemical peels are advanced treatments, so this prerequisite protects both you and your future clients.
Will I be insured to work after completing this course?
Yes. This VTCT Skills (ITEC) Level 4 qualification is recognised by professional insurance providers across the UK. Upon qualifying, you’ll be able to obtain appropriate insurance to perform chemical peel treatments. We recommend providers such as Balens, Guild, or PEI, all of whom accept this qualification.
How many treatments will I perform during the course?
You’ll perform multiple treatments throughout the 8 weeks, working with different models and performing various types of peels (AHA, BHA, and Combined peels). Typically you’ll complete 8-12 treatments as part of your practical training and assessment. With only 4 students in your class, you’ll have extensive hands-on time – no waiting around watching others.
Is chemical peels training difficult?
It’s an advanced treatment, so there’s learning involved – particularly understanding acid chemistry, pH levels, and how different peels interact with various skin types. However, with our small class size (just 4 students), individual treatment rooms, and experienced tutors with 45+ years combined experience, you’ll receive focused attention needed to master these skills.
What if I haven’t worked in beauty therapy for a while?
That’s fine. Whilst you need the Level 3 qualification to enrol, we don’t require recent practice. Your tutors will ensure you’re comfortable with consultation and professional standards before progressing to practical chemical peel application. Small class size means extra time for anyone needing to refresh skills.
Can I bring my own models or will you provide them?
You’ll arrange your own models for practical sessions. We’ll guide you on what to look for – models need to meet certain criteria (age, skin type, health conditions) depending on which peels you’re performing. Many students use friends, family, or existing clients. We provide detailed guidance throughout.
What’s the difference between AHA, BHA, and combined chemical peels?
AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) peels like glycolic and lactic acid are water-soluble and work on the skin’s surface – brilliant for brightness, texture, and light pigmentation. BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) peels like salicylic acid are oil-soluble, penetrating into pores making them excellent for oily and acne-prone skin. Combined chemical peels involve layering or combining different acids to achieve more advanced results, depending on the client’s skin type and concern. You will learn how to adapt and customise treatments safely within professional guidelines.
How much should I charge for chemical peels once qualified?
This depends on your location and target market. Generally, basic AHA peels start from around £80, BHA peels £90-£120, and Advanced or combined peel treatments £120–£200+ in London. Many practitioners offer package deals (e.g., course of 3 peels for £210, or 6 peels for £390) which encourages client commitment and provides regular income.
Are chemical peels safe for all skin types?
Different peels suit different skin types, which is exactly what you’ll learn during training. Some peels (like glycolic acid) need careful consideration on darker skin tones due to pigmentation risks, whilst others (like mandelic acid) are specifically chosen for sensitive or ethnic skin. A huge part of your training focuses on skin analysis, Fitzpatrick typing, and selecting appropriate treatments.
What’s the downtime after different chemical peels?
Light AHA and BHA peels typically cause slight redness for a few hours and light flaking for 2-3 days. Clients can usually return to normal activities immediately. More advanced peel treatments may cause more visible peeling over several days, depending on the protocol used. You’ll learn how to educate clients about realistic downtime for each peel type.
What happens if I miss a session?
We understand emergencies happen. If you miss a session, you’ll need to make it up to meet course requirements and qualification criteria. Depending on circumstances, this might mean joining that specific session with our next cohort. Please inform us as soon as possible if you can’t attend.
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