Delivered by our sister school, LSB

Level 2 Beauty Therapy at London School of Beauty

Looking for a Level 2 Beauty Therapy qualification? This course is delivered by our sister school, the London School of Beauty & Make-up (LSB). Ray Cochrane no longer teaches the full Level 2 Beauty Therapy course, including the former evening option. We can help you understand the route; teaching, availability and enrolment are managed by LSB.

View Level 2 Beauty Therapy at LSB

What is Level 2 Beauty Therapy?

Level 2 Beauty Therapy is a foundation for learning several everyday salon treatments, rather than specialising in just one. It brings together practical treatment skills, the theory behind them and the professional habits needed to care for clients.

LSB advertises the VTCT Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy Studies. The corresponding VTCT Skills qualification is numbered 600/8660/9. Its core combines facials, waxing, lash and brow treatments, manicures and pedicures with client care and salon safety.

Who is this course for?

This route suits beginners who want a broad introduction to beauty therapy, career changers exploring salon work, and learners who want to experience different treatments before choosing a specialism. LSB states that no previous beauty experience is required. Its course is for learners aged 18 or over who have the English reading, writing and speaking skills needed for coursework and examinations.

Choose the full diploma if you want to learn across skin, hair removal, brows, lashes and natural nail care. If your goal is specifically to provide facials, a focused Facial and Skincare qualification may be a better match; the distinction is explained below.

What will you learn? Core unit breakdown

The qualification has seven mandatory units. These plain-English summaries explain their focus; the unit codes let you check them against VTCT Skills' specification.

1. Facials and skincare — UV20398
Learn to assess a client's skin and plan an appropriate facial. Study cleansing, exfoliation, skin warming, facial massage, masks and moisturising, alongside product selection, treatment records and aftercare. Relevant skin anatomy and physiology support the practical work.

2. Waxing — UV20418
Learn how to consult with clients, prepare the treatment area and remove unwanted hair using waxing techniques. The unit covers areas such as the face, legs, underarms and bikini line, together with treatment suitability and advice for care afterwards.

3. Eyelash and eyebrow treatments — UV20419
Develop skills in eyebrow shaping and lash and brow tinting. Learn to discuss the client's desired result, carry out the required pre-treatment checks and select an approach that suits their colouring. This core unit is not an eyelash-extension qualification.

4. Manicure — UV20470
Learn to assess the hands and nails, prepare a treatment plan, shape and buff natural nails, care for cuticles and skin, massage the hands and lower arms, and apply a suitable nail finish.

5. Pedicure — UV20471
Learn to assess the feet and toenails and provide a planned pedicure. Practical skills include nail shaping, skin and cuticle care, managing excess hard skin, foot and lower-leg massage, and nail finishing, with appropriate hygiene throughout.

6. Client care and communication — UV20453
Practise consultations, clear explanations and professional communication. Learn how to support client comfort, protect confidentiality, respond to feedback and handle concerns, so the service is centred on the individual rather than only the treatment.

7. Salon health and safety — UV20483
Learn to spot hazards, assess risks and maintain safe, hygienic working conditions. The unit also covers responsibilities around salon security and what to do in an emergency, including awareness of first-aid resources and evacuation procedures.

Are there optional units?

Yes. VTCT Skills requires 32 credits from the mandatory units and at least 8 from optional units. Options in the qualification include areas such as make-up, salon reception, nail art and eyelash lifting. These are examples of available options, not a promise that every option is taught at LSB. Ask LSB which optional units are included in your chosen intake before booking.

How is the learning assessed?

You need to demonstrate practical skills as well as understanding the theory. LSB describes tutor observation, practical and theory examinations, and a treatment portfolio. Ask its admissions team about the current assessment timetable, portfolio requirements and study commitment outside taught sessions. Attending the classes alone does not complete the qualification.

What can Level 2 Beauty Therapy lead to?

The diploma provides a foundation for applying for junior beauty-therapy roles or continuing to Level 3 Beauty Therapy. It helps you identify whether you most enjoy skincare, waxing, brows and lashes, or nail care. It is a starting qualification, not training in every advanced beauty or aesthetics treatment; further courses have their own entry requirements.

Level 2 Beauty Therapy or a Facial-only course?

The full Beauty Therapy diploma at LSB is the broader route, covering multiple treatment areas and salon practice.

Ray Cochrane's separate VTCT Level 2 Facial and Skincare course focuses on facial and skincare treatments. It is not the full Beauty Therapy diploma. Choose the route that matches the treatments and career you want to pursue.

Check the current course at LSB

Use LSB's course page for its current dates, fees, attendance, availability and enrolment options. Its team can confirm your suitability and the optional units included. Ray Cochrane can explain the difference between the routes, but LSB manages this full Beauty Therapy course.

View Level 2 Beauty Therapy at LSB

Qualification reference: VTCT Skills Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy Studies. Course-specific information: LSB's current course page.