Certificate in Foundations of Professional Skincare and Makeup: Trends, and Techniques (Level 2)

The purpose of this micro-credential is to introduce learners to the foundational principles of professional skincare and basic makeup application, with an emphasis on hygiene, personal presentation, and current trends shaping the beauty industry. Designed at NZQCF Level 2, this 10-credit micro-credential supports individuals seeking to build confidence in personal grooming, gain entry-level knowledge and skills relevant to beauty-related roles, or prepare for further education in beauty therapy or makeup artistry.

Content:

Week 1: Foundations of Skin Health and Beauty Practice

• Introduction to skin anatomy, skin types, and common conditions
• Product knowledge: cleansers, toners, moisturisers, and sunscreens
• Daily skincare routines with practical application for different skin types
• Discussions around beauty standards and holistic wellbeing
• Establishing classroom tikanga (protocols) and whanaungatanga through shared discussion and collaborative learning

Week 2: Make-up Techniques, Safety, and Application

• Basic makeup techniques: day, evening, and special occasion looks
• Safe use, cleaning, and storage of tools and products
• Hands-on practice: guided demonstrations, peer models, and tutor feedback
• Emphasis on hygiene protocols, including culturally appropriate practices
• Incorporating values of kaitiakitanga (stewardship) when handling tools and shared resources

Week 3: Personalisation, Trends, and Reflection

• Analysing current skincare and makeup trends
• Learners explore product selection, customer needs, and seasonal considerations
• Portfolio compilation and self-reflection activities
• Final presentation of personal grooming plan and case-based application
• Peer and facilitator feedback, goal setting, and exploration of future pathways in education or employment

Outcome:
On successful completion of this micro-credential, learners/ākonga will be able to:

• Explain the fundamentals of skin health, types, and common conditions
• Apply basic daily skincare routines suitable for different skin types
• Perform basic makeup applications for day, evening, and special occasions
• Use, maintain, and store skincare and makeup tools hygienically

• There are no minimum academic qualifications required for admission to this micro-credential.
• All learners must be aged 16 years or older at the time of enrolment.
• Learners must agree to follow safe practice protocols, including hygiene and client care requirements, as part of the programme’s health and safety obligations.
• During enrolment, learners are asked to disclose any skin sensitivities, allergies, or health conditions that may be relevant to skincare product use and application to support learner wellbeing and inclusive participation.

New Zealand College of Business (NZCB) is a leading private tertiary education provider based in Christchurch, New Zealand, dedicated to delivering high-quality, industry-relevant education for both domestic and international learners.

Established in 2004, NZCB has built a strong reputation for academic excellence, practical learning, and student success. As a NZQA Category 1 institution, we specialise in applied business education, English language programmes, pathway education, and professional development programmes designed to prepare learners for real-world success.

Our programmes combine academic rigour with practical industry engagement, ensuring graduates develop the skills, confidence, and capabilities required to thrive in today’s global workforce.

NZCB maintains strong partnerships with universities, industry organisations, and international education partners across New Zealand and overseas, creating valuable progression pathways for our students.

At NZCB, we believe education should be practical, purposeful, and transformative.

Practical Education. Global Pathways. Real Success.