❖ Professional Nail Services
❖ Make-up
❖ Media Make-up
CIDESCO CERTIFICATES
❖ Anatomy & Physiology (fully online)
❖ Manicure & Pedicure
❖ Manual Facial
❖ Microneedling
❖ Microdermabrasion
❖ Teacher Training (fully online)
❖ Facial
❖ Skin Peeling
❖ Facial Electricals
❖ IPL & Laser Treatments For Skin Rejuvenation
❖ IPL & Laser Treatments for Hair Reduction
❖ Natural Nail Services
Dear CIDESCO Members
It is with immense pride and heartfelt gratitude that I once again address you in this edition of the CIDESCO Link magazine.
As we celebrate our 80th Anniversary, CIDESCO has stood as a beacon of excellence, professionalism and global unity within the beauty, spa and wellness industry.
This achievement is a direct reflection of the dedication of our educators, graduates, examiners, schools, sections, members, partners and the past and present CIDESCO Board of Directors along with the Head office team.
As we honour our past, we also celebrate the exciting future we are building together and are focused on evolving to meet the needs of a changing industry. The modern beauty and aesthetic landscape demand flexibility, inclusivity and innovation. CIDESCO is proud to respond with forward thinking initiatives designed to empower new learners and experienced professionals.
There have been several key developments with CIDESCO, regarding regulation and introducing carefully designed qualifications that reflect industry trends and emerging areas of expertise.
Recognising the importance of flexibility in Education, CIDESCO has developed a unitised training structure. This modular approach allows learners to progress step by step. Building skills over time and giving an educational journey that suit individual circumstances, it makes CIDESCO Education more accessible than ever before.
One of our most exciting initiatives is the introducing of Access to Aesthetics Practice, this progressive entry pathway was designed to broaden participation in our industry. Our new 800 Hour beauty programme was in response to global demand for a highquality foundational training, this comprehensive qualification delivers a robust blend of theory and practical training.
I am looking forward to meeting you all as we celebrate together our 80 years at the CIDESCO World Congress in Nadi, Fiji this August. To each and every Section and member, thank you for your unwavering commitment and support for CIDESCO International it’s your passion that drives our continued success and inspires the next generation of professionals.
Warm Regards
Mary O’Donoghue President CIDESCO International
Author: Runa McNamara, Education Consultant, CIDESCO International
In a thrilling development for beauty and aesthetics education, CIDESCO is proud to unveil three cutting-edge qualifications designed to meet the evolving needs of the beauty industry. These qualifications have been meticulously developed to align with the most current HABIA (Hair and Beauty Industry Authority) National Occupational Standards, ensuring that they cater to the demands of modern beauty professionals and their clients.
Each qualification CIDESCO offers has been unitised and referenced to the classic syllabi that educators and learners have come to trust. They are structured around Learning Outcomes clear and measurable statements that outline what a learner should know and be able to demonstrate by the completion of each unit. Moreover, Assessment Criteria are in place to provide specific
benchmarks used to evaluate the quality of a learner’s work, ensuring that learners achieve not only the unit but ultimately their qualification.
This streamlined qualification, developed in response to feedback from our schools, focuses on core areas like facial skincare, body care, and therapies, excluding ancillary units. It consists of 12 units, with 11 mandatory and 1 optional unit, covering essential subjects such as:
• CCO302 Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology
• CBT302 Facial Skincare and Therapy Treatments
• CBT303 Body Electrotherapy
Assessment methods for this diploma include Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), client consultation records, oral questions, mock exams, and practical examinations.
Designed to support practitioners aiming to step into the advanced aesthetic industry, this certificate focuses on health and safety, consultation, skin analysis, and skincare. It provides an introduction to both surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures, supported by fundamental science and dermatology knowledge. The 6 mandatory units include:
• CCO303 Skin Dermatology
• CCO307 An Overview of Cosmetic Surgery and Advanced Aesthetic Procedures
• CBT306 Facial Skincare for Aesthetic Practice
Assessments include MCQs, a research presentation, client records, and practical exams, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of aesthetic practices.
This extensive qualification integrates the CIDESCO syllabi with the Habia NOS standards to align with UK-regulated qualifications. It covers a wide range of beauty therapy practices, from manicures to electrotherapies, ensuring learners acquire the necessary skills for the beauty therapy sector. The diploma encompasses 22 mandatory units, such as:
• CBT201 Wax Depilation
• CBT203 Makeup
• CBT303 Facial Electrotherapy
The assessment strategy remains robust, featuring MCQs, client records, practical exams, and a research presentation.
CIDESCO encourages educators to explore the updated unit specifications available in the Knowledge Base. It's crucial to review and update current schemes of work to ensure all assessment criteria and content are thoroughly covered. As the industry evolves, so too must our teaching resources, especially where new technologies are incorporated.
Exciting webinars detailing these qualifications are available for viewing, and CIDESCO invites any questions or feedback at info@cidesco.com. We are confident that these refreshed qualifications will inspire and elevate the standards of beauty and aesthetic education worldwide. Join us in embracing this new chapter in beauty education!
Runa McNamara, Education Consultant, CIDESCO International
This August, the CIDESCO World Congress heads to the stunning islands of Fiji.
Taking place from 29th to 31st August at the beautiful Crowne Plaza Nadi Bay Resort & Spa, this event brings together the finest minds and talents from across the global beauty, spa and wellness industry. Whether you're looking to elevate your career, expand your knowledge or connect with fellow professionals on an international stage, this is going to be a memorable and rewarding event.
This year is also an important milestone for CIDESCO as we mark our 80th anniversary.
That’s eight decades of excellence and innovation in the beauty and spa therapy industry.
To join us in Fiji email info@cidesco.com
In celebration of CIDESCO’s 80th anniversary
CIDESCO is proud to announce the reopening of the CIDESCO Global Awards. This prestigious accolade is available for both graduates and current students in the Beauty Therapy and Make-up categories. Winning this award is not only a mark of excellence but also a significant milestone in your professional journey.
CIDESCO’s popular Massage Workshops are back. They will be taking place at Professional Beauty in London on the 4th & 5th of October 2026 in London.
One of the highlights of this year's event is (1) Dr Shogo Mochizuki, the 26th Generation Kobido Grandmaster who will speaking about ‘The Art of Kobido’ for the first time.
The program also includes:
• 10 Main Sen Sib Energy Lines – Kru Lumpai (2)
• The Hidden Language of the Skin –Marie Reynolds (3)
• Facials 101 – Lydia Sarfati (4)
• Intergrating Pressure, Movement & Stretch – Slav Marinov (5)
• The Ozempic Face Syndrome –Anna Tsankova (6)
• The Timeless Secrets of Ayurveda –Nordine Meguellati (7)
• Cosmetic Acupuncture – Amanda Shayle (8)
CIDESCOInternational's presenceatthe5thedition oftheWorldMassage MeetingatCosmoprof WorldwideBolognaearlier thisyearwasnothingshort ofextraordinary.
It wasacelebrationofthe art,science,andhumanity oftouch.Theeventserved asaglobalplatformfor innovation,andCIDESCO was proudtohelpleadthe conversation.
Highlights from our presenting members:
• HayleySnishkobroughtwarmthandwisdomtoher sessiononEmpatheticMassageasaHealingTherapy exploringhowpresence,intention,andlistening handstransformeverytreatment.
• DorisSeaushowcasedthedepthandeleganceofTCM Concept&Massage,connectingancienttraditionwith modernpractice.
• FlaviaMorellato,founderofMetodoIntegro®, demonstratedManualLymphaticDrainageandBeyond aholisticapproachtodetox,healingandwhole-body care.
AttendeesalsodiscoveredSargaBodywork,aninnovativetechniqueusingaspecialisedstrap andthepractitioner'sownbodyweighttodeliverdeep,meditative,envelopingpressure a freshperspectiveoncontemporarybodywork.
GuidedbeautifullythroughoutbyHayleyandManuela,theMeetingwasaresoundingsuccess atestamenttothepassionandprofessionalismofallwhoattendedandpresented. CIDESCOisproudtochampionexcellenceinmassagetherapyontheworldstage.
CIDESCO International’s Webinar Series featuring advice and insights from world leading beauty professionals, continues to educate and inspire.
In 2026 we have been pleased to hear from (pictured clockwise from top left):
CIDESCO Section USA President, Lydia Sarfati on the Complete Facial Treatment Blueprint.
Award winning therapist, Hayley Snishko on Massage and the Nervous System.
Award winning facialist, Smita Ahluwalia on Retail Strategy.
Nichelle Foster Mosley, The Barrier Queen on Global Majority Skin & Pigment Pathways.
Health & Beauty Group CEO, Roberto Valente on how to craft a beauty brand identify.
CIDESCO Associate member, Bioline Jatò who introduced their new and exclusive Bioline Jató working method: the Serum Layer System.
NEXT CIDESCO WEBINAR – 23rd September 14:00
Alison Bladh, Award-Winning Nutritional Therapist, CIDESCO Beauty Therapist and Founder of the Meno Massage Method
Grand Makadi Spa, the flagship wellness destination of Grand Spa in Egypt has become a CIDESCO-accredited spa. Located on Egypt's stunning Red Sea coast, the spa delivers exceptional wellness experiences through worldclass facilities, highly trained therapists, and authentic treatments inspired by Egyptian hospitality.
Grand Spa is among Egypt's leading spa operators, managing luxury hotel spas across the Red Sea while maintaining the highest international standards of quality, education, and guest care.
In today’s beauty, spa and wellness industry, excellence is more than just skill, it’s a standard. For students passionate about building a global career in beauty therapy, aesthetics, or spa and wellness, CIDESCO International Qualifications represent the gold standard of education and professional recognition worldwide.
The CIDESCO Diploma is the world’s prestigious qualification for Aesthetics and Beauty Therapy which has set international standards since 1957.
The portfolio of Diplomas includes:
• Beauty Therapy
• Spa Therapy
• Skincare
• Beauty & Spa Management (fully online)
• Holistic Massage
• Body Therapy
• Professional Nail Services
• Make-up Artistry
• Media Make-up
• Aromatherapy
• Electrical Epilation
• Aesthetics
• Advanced Asthetics
• Oncology Wellness
CIDESCO introduced the Certificate Programme in response to the changes and needs within the Beauty and Spa Industry globally. This includes:
• Anatomy & Physiology (fully online)
• Manicure & Pedicure
• Manual Facial
• Microneedling
• Microdermabrasion
• Teacher Training (fully online)
• Facial
• Skin Peeling
• Facial Electricals
• IPL & Laser Treatments For Skin Rejuvenation
• IPL & Laser Treatments for Hair Reduction
• Natural Nail Services
If you are a school or college interested in expanding your student courses please contact info@cidesco.com.
Individuals should contact their local CIDESCO School.
South Korea’s rise in beauty tourism reflects a global shift towards resultsdriven treatments, advanced technology and highly personalised client experiences. Increasingly, clients are seeking more than products they want visible results and immersive, professional care. Read the full article here
How to make it as a nail tech:
The nail industry is evolving quickly, with success now depending on both technical skill and strong business awareness. From trend-led designs to pricing and client retention, nail professionals must stay informed to remain competitive in a fastmoving, social media-driven market. The need to combine high-quality training with ongoing education and business strategy is key for long-term success in the nail sector. Read the full article
An article has explored why Gen Z therapists are leaving salons, and what it takes to keep them. For industry leaders, the findings are worth noting. From fair pay structures and clear career pathways to mental health support and modern technology, the article highlights that retaining young talent requires more than good training; it requires a supportive, values-led environment where growth is visible and leadership is transparent. Read more here
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The 2026 Beauty Reset Report from NielsenIQ and CEW UK paints a clear picture for beauty professionals: consumers are spending more carefully, AI is reshaping how products are discovered and simplified, and results-driven treatments are winning. That's why understanding these shifts is key to staying ahead. From pricing strategy to digital visibility, the findings are well worth a read. Read the full article
For salon owners and spa operators, sustainability in 2026 is no longer about marketing promises, it's about proof. New research reveals that 59% of consumers now distrust sustainability claims without independent verification, making third-party certifications and recognised standards essential for maintaining client trust and premium positioning. Clear, measurable communication about sustainability efforts will define successful businesses in the year ahead, while avoiding discussion altogether risks undermining the very trust that underpins client loyalty and pricing in the wellness sector Read more here
“The beauty and wellness industry is evolving rapidly, and skincare has become one of the most in-demand sectors worldwide. With the rise of medical aesthetics, corrective skincare, and result-driven treatments, the need for highly trained skincare professionals has never been greater”
says Nickel Forbes, owner of Nickel’s Beauty Institute in Barbados.
At our institution, we are committed to preparing students not only for today’s beauty industry but for the future of advanced skincare education and innovation.
One of the most impactful programs we offer is the CIDESCO Manual Facial Certificate.
This is a course designed to build confident, knowledgeable, and industry-ready estheticians with a strong foundation in professional skincare.
Our Manual Facial Certificate program is offered as a sixmonth full-time course or an eight-month part-time course, creating flexibility for students from different backgrounds and lifestyles. The program combines in-depth theory with intensive practical training to deliver a complete educational experience.
Students are immersed in subjects such as skin analysis, facial treatment techniques, cosmetic chemistry, cosmetic science, product knowledge, consultation procedures, hygiene and sanitation, dermatology principles, and professional client care. However, what truly sets this program apart is the hands-on experience.
Throughout the course, students work extensively on live models in a professional learning environment. This allows them to gain real-world experience, perfect their techniques, strengthen client communication skills, and build the confidence required to succeed in the industry. By graduation, students leave not only with certification, but with practical experience and a professional portfolio that prepares them for immediate employment opportunities.
In today’s competitive beauty industry, confidence and experience are everything and our students graduate with both.
Skincare is no longer limited to traditional spa services. The growth of medical aesthetics has transformed the industry, creating exciting opportunities for estheticians to work
alongside dermatologists, cosmetic doctors, and advanced skincare professionals in medical aesthetics clinics and clinical skincare environments.
The CIDESCO Manual Facial Certificate provides students with the essential foundation needed to enter this expanding field.
Many graduates use this qualification as a stepping stone into advanced skincare and medical aesthetic treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, dermaplaning, skin tag and mole removal, and other corrective skincare procedures. As the demand for advanced aesthetic services continues to grow, having a strong foundation in skincare education allows students to confidently progress into more specialized and results-driven treatments.
As a school owner, one of the greatest rewards is seeing students discover careers they never imagined possible. This course opens doors not only locally, but internationally, while helping students build lifelong careers in an industry driven by confidence, wellness, and transformation.
One of the strongest elements of the program is the focus on skin science, dermatology principles, cosmetic products, and cosmetic science. In today’s skincare industry, clients are more educated, ingredient-conscious, and results-focused than ever before.
Understanding skin conditions, product formulations, active ingredients, contraindications, and homecare recommendations has become an essential part of being a successful esthetician.
Our students are trained not only to perform treatments confidently, but also to understand the science behind healthy skin and professional skincare products. This knowledge allows graduates to deliver a higher level of client care while building trust, professionalism, and confidence within the skincare industry.
One of our recent graduates, now working in a medical aesthetics clinic, shared that the cosmetic product knowledge gained throughout the course became one of her biggest advantages in the workplace. She explained that understanding skincare ingredients, professional product recommendations, and treatment planning gave her the confidence to educate clients effectively and contribute professionally within a clinical skincare environment.
Testimonials like this highlight the true purpose of education creating confident professionals who are ready to excel in realworld environments.
At our institution, we believe education should inspire, empower, and transform lives. The CIDESCO Manual Facial Certificate is more than just a skincare course it is the beginning of a journey into a thriving global industry filled with opportunity, innovation, and growth.
As the demand for skilled skincare professionals continues to rise, we remain committed to delivering internationally aligned education that prepares students to lead the future of beauty and wellness with confidence, professionalism, and passion.
“We are not only training estheticians we are shaping the future leaders of the skincare industry.”
“Why Beauty and Wellness Therapy Is Smarter, More Holistic and More Scientific Than Ever”
Anna Tsankova CIDESCO Graduate and CIDESCO Ambassador International Speaker and Educator, Founder InSpark Institute - Elevating Massage Mastery
There was a time years ago when I started my career and was taught that beauty therapy and facials were based on 3 steps cleanse, tone, moisturise and facials were mainly layering products on the skin with gentle pampering strokes or squeezing spots and pores. Facial treatment was seen as either a pleasant luxury or simply a deep-cleansing necessity. It was rarely taken seriously outside the world of spas and salons.
Luckily, the tides are shifting.
Over the last decade, the beauty industry has undergone a quiet but remarkable transformation. Behind the results of glow-enhancing facials and transformational sculpting massage techniques lies a deeper understanding of anatomy, skin physiology, inflammation, stress biology, cellular ageing science, and even nervous system regulation itself. Modern professional beauty therapy is no longer considered a surface work. It is integrated, intelligent, evidence based and is deeply connected to wellness.
And consumers are changing too, wanting everything at once. When investing both money and time, their expectations are higher than ever, results, relaxation, personalisation, expertise, and guidance. Today's beauty professional is often expected to have knowledge not only in topical skincare, but also anatomy, physiology, diet, nutraceuticals, and sometimes even the skills of a part-time psychologist, navigating conversations about stress, burnout, husbands, children, lack of sleep, and modern lifestyle pace or stress, all while performing a treatment.
With the constant information overload across social media, clients today are more exposed to skincare information and are equally more educated than ever before yet often more overwhelmed and confused by endless advice, trends, and marketing gimmicks. It is now essential to have a professional and qualified expert to educate them and help guide them towards their goals.
Clients want help but also to understand why their skin suddenly reacts, why they look exhausted despite sleeping, why stress appears on the face almost instantly, or why aggressive treatments can sometimes have long-term consequences, leaving the skin looking worse rather than better. People are moving away from the idea of "fixing flaws" and toward maintaining and supporting healthier, more resilient skin over time, with greater focus on longevity, prevention, and bio-harmony.
I am excited that the conversation around beauty is evolving, and that science is leading it. Skin, after all, is far more than a surface. It is the body's largest organ, a living protective barrier constantly communicating with the immune, vascular, hormonal, and nervous systems. It reacts to environment, emotions, lifestyle, sleep, nutrition, and stress. In many ways, the face becomes a visible diary of modern life.
Long before terms like "skin longevity" or "inflammaging" entered public conversation, experienced beauty therapists were already observing these patterns in treatment rooms every day. We saw how emotional stress could affect the face, how pollution can dull the complexion, how muscle and jaw tension can deepen facial expression and lines, how fatigue appeared around the eyes, and how chronic inflammation affected skin sensitivity and the ageing process.
Now, research is beginning to validate many of these observations.
The skin barrier, once rarely discussed outside dermatology and corneotherapy, has become one of the beauty industry's most important topics. Consumers are realising that over-exfoliating, overusing active ingredients, and constantly attacking the skin in pursuit of perfection can compromise its function rather than improve it. The era of "more is more" is fading. In its place comes a more balanced philosophy: support the skin instead of fighting it. It is very much the 360-degree approach to skin health that I have followed and spoken about for many years, and I am happy to see this quiet shift happening across the industry.
This change explains the growing popularity of treatments focused on restoration and regeneration. Professional and advanced facial massage methods, lymphaticinspired techniques, barriersupportive skincare, fasciafocused therapies, and nervoussystem-calming treatments are all seeing renewed attention and appreciation. Not because they are trendy wellness buzzwords, but because people now understand that healthy-looking skin is connected to the health of the tissue itself and also to emotional wellbeing and overall state of mind.
This is also where the regenerative category is becoming one of the most significant developments in professional skin therapy. Trendy Polynucleotides, exosome-based formulations, growth factor signalling, and biotech-derived peptides are reshaping what "antiageing" actually means. The conversation is moving from suppressing visible signs of ageing toward supporting the skin's own repair mechanisms
communicating with fibroblasts, modulating inflammation, and reinforcing the tissue's long-term capacity to renew itself. This “ageing well” is not a passing trend. It reflects a broader scientific reorientation toward regeneration and biological longevity, and it is changing both the language and the standards of expectation across our field.
Stress, in particular, has become impossible to ignore in modern beauty conversations. The face absorbs modern life in surprisingly visible ways. Hours spent staring at screens, poor posture, shallow breathing, jaw clenching, emotional tension, sleep deprivation, and constant overstimulation all leave traces.
Puffy eyes, dull skin, tight foreheads, tension headaches, reactive flare-ups, and tired facial expressions are often not simply cosmetic concerns they are physiological ones. I am sure this sounds familiar to many professionals reading this, as we now regularly see clients presenting with one or several of these concerns. It also highlights why advanced education and continuous professional development have become so important within modern beauty therapy.
One reason facial massage has experienced such a powerful revival globally is the growing understanding of the multiple benefits of therapeutic touch. Once viewed as merely relaxing, it is now appreciated for its potential role in supporting circulation, relieving muscular tension patterns, encouraging relaxation responses, and improving overall tissue vitality. The language surrounding manual therapy has evolved too. Today's advanced beauty professionals discuss fascia, tissue glide, mechanoreceptors, lymphatic pathways, and neuromuscular tension with growing confidence and sophistication.
Beauty therapy is becoming less superficial and more biomechanical Hormonal life stages are reshaping the conversation too. The hormonal fluctuations affecting collagen loss, sensitivity shifts, and inflammatory patterns associated with perimenopause and menopause are now routinely seen in the treatment room, and they require a different planning logic than the one many of us were originally trained in. Recognising the hormonal context behind a skin presentation is, increasingly, part of the professional baseline education.
At the same time, technology is rapidly reshaping the profession. Advanced clinics and spas now combine skilled touch with a variety of technologies, from LED therapy, radiofrequency, ultrasound, microcurrent, cryotherapy, and AI-assisted skin analysis systems.
And here I would add a note of caution, against the prevailing enthusiasm. In my view, energybased devices such as focused ultrasound, certain ablative lasers and high-intensity modalities have genuine clinical uses, but they belong in a category of treatments that should be applied very selectively, with clear indication, and not as routine maintenance.
The short-term tightening or lifting effect is undeniably appealing, yet the longer-term consequences of repeated thermal injury to the dermis, the subcutaneous tissue, and the underlying fat compartments are still poorly understood, and increasingly being observed in practice manifesting as premature volume loss, fibrotic changes, faces that no longer move the way they used to, and skin that ages in ways the client did not anticipate. Used wisely, these devices are powerful tools in the right hands. The damage begins when they become routine, and the tissue we are trying to protect starts to give way. Professional judgement, not menu inclusion, should decide their place.
Yet interestingly, as beauty becomes more technological, the value of human touch appears to be increasing rather than disappearing. I personally believe beauty and massage therapists are not going to be out of jobs anytime soon.
Perhaps because touch offers something devices alone cannot fully replicate such as the human connection, empathy and compassion.
Yes, treatment today is no longer simply about applying products. Clients seek experiences that help them feel restored, regulated, and cared for in a world that often
feels overstimulating and exhausting. The modern treatment room has become part treatment space, part wellness sanctuary.
This is where professional expertise matters more than ever As social media floods consumers with misinformation, miracle trends, and unrealistic beauty ideals, qualified beauty professionals play an increasingly important role in helping clients navigate skin health responsibly. Understanding anatomy, physiology, contraindications, hygiene, ingredient science, and realistic treatment outcomes is no longer optional it is essential.
This is why formal advanced training and continuous professional development remain so important within the industry. Education and professional standards are becoming central to the future of beauty therapy, particularly as clients become more informed and more selective about who they trust. And perhaps that is the most exciting part of the industry's evolution.
Beauty is no longer only about appearance. It increasingly intersects with emotional wellbeing, stress management, healthy ageing, confidence, lifestyle, and self-care. The modern beauty therapist is not simply performing a facial they are working with the face as part of a much bigger picture.
Because skin is never just skin. It reflects how we live, how we recover, how we age, how we cope with stress, and ultimately, how well we care for ourselves. And perhaps that is the true future of beauty therapy not chasing perfection, but supporting healthier skin, healthier ageing, and healthier humans.
Salvatore Campo, Owner and school Director and Tiziana Allegrini, Coordinator at Campus SRLS explain their passion for the Beauty & Spa Management (BSM) Diploma.
This Diploma is fully aligned with CIDESCO protocols to equip professionals for Italy's booming spa and thermal tourism sector. From our online platform we deliver flexible, high-impact online hybrid education blending global standards with practical Italian insights.
Course Structure and Delivery Of Our fully online BSM Diploma features asynchronous video lessons for anytime enrollment, covering spa operations, business strategies, marketing, regulations, innovation, hygiene, and finance through slides, case studies, exercises, and project work. Highlights include personalized online tutoring, periodic checkpoints, recorded lessons for review, and a final exam with business plan presentations - accessible to therapists, masseurs, and entrepreneurs, led by expert teachers.
Benefits for Our School and Students
CIDESCO partnership positions Campus SRLS as Italy's pioneer, driving enrollment growth and key collaborations amid rising wellness demand. Students earn an EU-recognized diploma for Spa Manager Roles, gaining actionable skills in profitability, client relations, team leadership, and innovation transforming careers with real-world expertise.
"The CIDESCO Beauty & Spa Management course was a choice I would make again without hesitation. It taught me to see the spa with new eyes, not just as a place of care and wellness, but as a living project of vision, management, client relationships, and quality standards.
With the teachers, I found something rare: true presence competence, warmth, availability. The exam day was unforgettable full of emotion and heart-pounding excitement, but above all, the certainty of having given my all. This diploma isn't an endpoint; it's a starting point.“
Maira Saisi, BSM April 2026
"I took part with great enthusiasm in the BSM Spa Beauty & Management course a highly comprehensive and meticulously crafted program.
The content was engaging, up-to-date, and professionally top-tier, offering concrete, immediately applicable skills. I especially appreciated the recorded lessons for deepening topics and the effective periodic checkpoints for review. The teachers' professionalism and constant support were invaluable.
The final exam, with targeted questions on our project work and PowerPoints, was intense and stimulating. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a career leap in beauty management.“
— Denise Manno, BSM April 2026
"The CIDESCO BSM journey was crucial for me, both professionally and personally.
At the start, I had many fears, especially since Italian isn't my native language I worried about expressing myself, following lessons, or passing assessments. But this path showed me that limits often exist more in our minds than reality. I'm proud to have completed the entire course in Italian, created and presented my business plan in Italian, and faced every challenge with determination.
The teachers' human, motivating, and professional support helped me believe in myself.
The final exam was an overwhelming emotion anxiety, adrenaline, fatigue, but above all satisfaction. I learned: don't wait for the perfect moment seize opportunities and create them yourself. I'll carry this experience forever. “
Vilmante Cekanauskaite, BSM April 2026
How the CIDESCO Make-up Diploma is redefining professional artistry — and opening doors that talent alone cannot.
There is a moment every makeup artist remembers. The first time a bride looks in the mirror and her breath catches. The first time a client on a commercial set trusts you completely. The first time you realise that what you hold in your hands is not simply a brush it is someone’s confidence, their story, the face they will wear on the most important day of their life. That moment does not arrive by accident. It is built, methodically and beautifully, through the right education.
The beauty industry today is not merely growing it is transforming. Make-up artistry has claimed its place as a respected global profession, sought across bridal suites, fashion editorials, film sets, and luxury beauty campaigns. Yet with that elevation comes an uncomfortable truth: talent without training has a ceiling. In a world where every aspiring artist has a ring light and a social media account, what truly separates a professional from an amateur is not the products in their kit. It is the depth of their knowledge, the precision of their craft, and the credibility of their qualification.
At our school, the CIDESCO Make-up Diploma was chosen not because it is prestigious though it undeniably is but because it is honest. It prepares students for the actual demands
Of the profession, not an idealised version of it. The curriculum moves through skin preparation and colour correction, bridal and photographic make-up, hygiene protocols, client consultation, and the modern techniques that today’s industry demands: HD make-up, soft glam finishes, natural bridal aesthetics, and camera-ready artistry shaped by the realities of digital and social media.
What makes this training distinctive is the balance it strikes. Every session combines timeless professional standards with contemporary creative demands. Students do not simply learn techniques in isolation they develop judgment. They learn to read a client, to adapt under pressure, to understand why a particular choice works for a particular face in a particular light. That is the difference between knowing how and knowing when.
The CIDESCO name is recognised across more than 40 countries. For a student graduating from our programme, that recognition is not an abstract achievement it is a practical one. It means a bridal artist can move markets. It means a freelancer can approach luxury clients with confidence. It means an educator can teach with authority. In a profession where reputation is everything and first impressions are built before a single word is spoken, the qualification in your portfolio speaks before you ever walk into the room.
From the perspective of running an educational institution, this international standard also shapes how we teach. It holds us accountable not just to syllabus requirements, but to the principle that every student who graduates from our doors must be genuinely industry-ready. That responsibility is one we carry with pride.
The most compelling evidence for any training programme is not found in its curriculum documents. It is found in the careers of the people who completed it.
“The training did not just teach me make-up it taught me how to carry myself as a professional. That confidence is what my clients respond to.”
CIDESCO
Graduate, now an established bridal make-up artist
Another graduate, who has since built a loyal client base working across commercial and editorial projects, reflected on the shift that happened during her practical sessions: “Before this programme, I knew how to do make-up. After it, I understood make-up. There is a real difference, and my clients feel it.”
These are not exceptional stories. They are the expected outcome of education taken seriously by the institution that delivers it and the student who commits to it.
What the CIDESCO Diploma offers, ultimately, is not simply a collection of techniques. It offers transformation. It shapes make-up artists who are articulate with clients, composed under pressure, creative without losing precision, and professional in every sense of the word.
It prepares them not just for their first job, but for the career that follows for the moments when they will become the authority in the room, the trusted artist, the mentor to the next generation.
The beauty industry will continue to evolve. Trends will shift,
technologies will change, and new platforms will redefine what it means to reach an audience. But quality education will always be the foundation on which lasting careers are built. It was true when CIDESCO was founded. It is true today. And for every student who chooses to invest in their craft with that level of seriousness, the possibilities are genuinely extraordinary.
“The brush in your hand is only as powerful as the knowledge behind it. Choose your education accordingly.”
Author: Meerra Mevawala, Creative Director and Principal of Meerras International School of Makeup & More (MIS) in Mumbai, - CIDESCO-accredited Media Make-up School.
IBA Nail School is the first nailsonly school to become a CIDESCO International Accredited Training School. The School’s founder and president, Beatriz Hernandez reflects what this means to them and their students.
This recognition reflects our commitment to excellence in nail education, elevated industry standards, and providing students with internationally respected educational opportunities.
Becoming a CIDESCO International Certified Training School represents an important milestone not only for IBA Nail School, but also for the advancement and professional recognition of nail education within the beauty industry.
CIDESCO RECOGNIZED PRIOR LEARNING PROGRAM
At IBA Nail School, we are proud to offer the CIDESCO Nails RPL Program (Recognized Prior Learning), designed specifically for experienced nail professionals who are ready to elevate their careers through internationally recognized education and certification.
The CIDESCO RPL pathway was created for nail technicians who already possess hands-on industry experience and want the opportunity to validate their knowledge and skills through one of the most respected beauty education organizations in the world: CIDESCO.
Our RPL program is structured to support working professionals while maintaining the high standards expected from CIDESCO certification.
The CIDESCO Nails RPL Program at IBA Nail School consists of:
• 3 months of online preparation
• 4 days of intensive in-person preparation
• Mock testing
• Official examination day
The online preparation phase allows students to study theory, review procedures, strengthen product knowledge, and prepare for the written and practical portions of the examination at their own pace while continuing to work in the industry.
The in-person portion is focused on refining techniques, correcting habits, practicing under examination standards, and preparing students mentally and professionally for the CIDESCO examination process. Mock testing plays a critical role in helping students build confidence and understand the level of professionalism and precision expected during the exam.
AUTHOR: Beatriz Hernandez
Founder and President
Institute of Beauty Artistry aka IBA Nail School
CIDESCO International Certified Training School
To qualify for the CIDESCO Nails RPL Program, students must provide proof of a minimum of 2 years of experience in an official and legitimate education qualification in nails. This requirement ensures that candidates entering the program already possess foundational industry experience and are prepared for the advanced expectations of the CIDESCO examination process.
The CIDESCO credential gives nail professionals international recognition and credibility within the beauty industry. For many students, earning this diploma represents more than a certification it becomes a personal and professional milestone.
Benefits include:
• Increased professional credibility
• International recognition
• Advanced career opportunities
• Stronger confidence in technical and theoretical knowledge
• Elevated professionalism and service standards
Many experienced nail technicians have years of talent and practical experience but never had the opportunity to receive an internationally recognized diploma. The RPL pathway gives those professionals the ability to showcase their expertise on a global level.
Offering the CIDESCO Nails RPL Program allows IBA Nail School to continue its mission of elevating nail education standards and providing meaningful opportunities for beauty professionals. As a school owner, it is incredibly rewarding to help experienced nail technicians gain recognition for the skills they have developed through years of dedication and hard work.
The program also strengthens the professional image of the nail industry by encouraging higher standards in education, sanitation, technique, and overall professionalism.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this program is watching experienced nail professionals rediscover confidence in their abilities while preparing for an internationally respected examination. Students often describe the process as challenging, motivating, and transformative.
The CIDESCO RPL Program is not simply about passing an exam it is about recognizing experience, refining skills, and empowering nail professionals to reach a higher level in their careers.
www.cidesco.com.
While the CIDESCO Nails RPL Program is an internationally recognized certification pathway through CIDESCO, it does not certify students to obtain a Nail Technology license in the state of South Carolina. The RPL program is intended for experienced nail professionals seeking international recognition of their existing skills and experience. Students seeking state licensure in South Carolina must still meet the licensing requirements established by the South Carolina Board of Cosmetology.
At 31, after completing my CIDESCO certification three years ago, I chose to turn a long-held dream into reality. What began as a personal interest in skin, hair, and overall health grew into something more meaningful: a desire to help others feel confident, balanced, and comfortable in their own skin.
Botané, a head spa and skincare clinic is built on that purpose. The name is inspired by the Greek word for plants, reflecting a philosophy rooted in botanical, ecological, and clean products. Every treatment is thoughtfully designed using natural ingredients and a holistic approach that respects both the skin and the body.
By combining head spa rituals, therapeutic massage, and advanced skincare, Botané offers a complete experience - where deep relaxation meets visible, lasting results. Each treatment is created to restore, rebalance, and renew.
For those seeking more than just a treatment, for those seeking a moment of calm, care, and true transformation, Botané offers a unique and elevated wellness experience in Molde.
About Botané
The concept of Botané is deeply rooted in creating a space where every client feels at home: welcomed, seen, and cared for from the moment they arrive.
An important part of the experience is time. Each appointment is intentionally extended, allowing space beyond the treatment itself. Whether we take a moment to talk about skincare, enjoy a cup of tea, or simply sit in calm silence, the goal is to create a sense of ease and balance, something many people truly need in their everyday lives.
Botané is also designed as a private and exclusive space. During each appointment, the salon is closed to others, ensuring there are no interruptions. This allows me, as a therapist, to be fully present and gives each client the rare opportunity to fully disconnect, relax, and enjoy a treatment in complete peace.
Author: Bonte, CIDESCO Graduate and Owner and founder of Botané Head Spa & Skincare, Norway
Lydia Sarfati, President, CIDESCO Section USA
Seasonedprofessionalestheticians andbeautytherapistsnowhavea pathwaytoelevatingtheircareertoan internationalstandardwiththe CIDESCORecognizedPriorLearning (RPL)program. Inthepast, estheticianswho obtainedtheir licensewithoutaCIDESCOdiploma would needtospendyearsofstudy andtuitionfeestoreturntoschoolfor CIDESCOcredentials. Now, with the RPL program,beautyprofessionals with atleasttwoyears’experience canapplyfortheprogramtoutilize theirhard-earnedknowledgefromthe workplaceandpriorstudies.This programallows beautytherapistsand estheticspractitionerstotaketheir expertisetothenext level andearna CIDESCOdiploma,oneofthemost prestigiouscertificationsin thebeauty industry,torefineskillsandstandout asagloballyrecognizedprofessional.
Thisprogramstreamlinesthe certificationprocessbyproviding structuredguidance,practicalexam preparation,andaclearpathwayto meetCIDESCO’sinternational standards.Insteadofstartingfrom scratch,candidatesleveragetheir hands-onexperiencewhile receiving expertsupporttosuccessfully completetherequiredpractical examination.
For nearly 80 years, CIDESCO has set the global benchmark for beauty and spa therapy and education, with accredited schools and professionals across more than 40 countries. CIDESCO stands for Comité International d’Esthétique et de Cosmétologie, a non-profit organization founded in 1946 in Brussels and today headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. CIDESCO membership is open to leading schools, colleges, beauty salons and spas worldwide as well as students looking to achieve a superior level of training.
The importance of higher credentials plays out in real numbers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, skincare specialist employment is projected to grow between 7% to 10%, outpacing the average for all occupations, with salaries commiserate to levels of advanced education.1
The CIDESCO RPL program is available internationally and recently launched in the United States through the work of Lydia Sarfati, President, CIDESCO Section USA, CIDESCO diploma
holder and CEO of Repêchage Skin Care and Lacy Gill, Director of Education for CIDESCO Section USA and Assistant Director at the Institute of Cosmetology Esthetics & Massage.
“We’re beyond excited to introduce the RPL Program to the United States and globally,” says Sarfati. “It is a pathway to elevating careers and honoring hands-on expertise while guiding the individual towards the internationally respected CIDESCO diploma, the gold standard in beauty and skincare.”
“When you chose CIDESCO, it is an international passport of opportunities,” says Sarfati. “CIDESCO graduates are in demand, from luxury spas, medical esthetics, clinics, wellness, resorts, cruises, and so many more. The RPL program also benefits many institutions and individuals. It creates a pool of the highest credentialed talent, as well as provides an additional student base for esthetics schools and
academiesbydrawingbackalumni forrefresherprogramsand mentorship. Whetheryou area studentpursuinga CIDESCO diploma,aneducatorpreparingthe nextgenerationofprofessionals,or anestheticianexpandingyour credentials,you arenowa partofthe globalfamilythatprioritizes knowledge,ethicsandexceptional clientcare.”
Inaddition,CIDESCOdiplomatesand membershaveaccesstoglobal networking,continuingeducation opportunities,andcanparticipatein eventsliketheCIDESCO InternationalCongressand Conferencestoaccessinsightson innovation,scienceandglobalbeauty trends.
The CIDESCO Recognized Prior Learning (RPL) program is designed for licensed, experienced estheticians. Through this program, the therapist is evaluated and credited for prior professional knowledge gained through licensing, continued education and real-world experience. If the beauty therapist or esthetician meets eligibility requirements, they can complete the CIDESCO PostGraduate Beauty Therapy curriculum through independent study, structured preparation, and a final CIDESCO examination.
This pathway is ideal for working professionals who want to elevate their credentials, expand career opportunities, or pursue international recognition while still maintaining their day-to-day business.
This examination consists of a theory Multiple Choice Question 100 (MCQ) test, a paper, and a practical exam.
Step 1: Become a CIDESCO member in your country.
Step 2: Please submit an application, including proof of license, work experience, and a professional portfolio. A senior education CIDESCO team will review application materials to confirm eligibility.
A skin care profesional must have an official and legitimate educational qualification in the program they would like to upskill. The candidate will be required to submit signed confirmation that they have performed all treatments that are covered in the qualification in which they are to be examined. The training program administrators will register their candidates in the relevant programs. Please note that Teacher Training and Oncology Esthetics do not have RPL options.
Step 3: Schedule the exam through the CIDESCO school or section.
Step 4: Submit a written paper on a topic in the industry from 2500 words. This must be completed before the exam. All participants must complete the written assignments as per individual qualification requirements.
Step 5: Take a mock Practical Examination with the school or section to become familiar with the examination procedures and how the exam is conducted before sitting for their practical examination. The training provider can offer to upskill the candidate in those areas their knowledge is not sufficient.
Step 6 Take the Multiple-Choice Question exam, a virtual test with 100 multiple choice questions. Individuals must receive a 70% or above score to pass this exam. If the candidate does not receive a minimum of 70% they will be required to retake the examination. Two retake exams can be taken within 2 years from the original exam date.
Step 7 Take the final Practical Exam demonstrating esthetics skills. This is taken in person at their school or section.
Properpreparationis keytoobtaining thediploma,soit is crucialthat potentialcandidatesavail themselves ofanaccreditedCIDESCORPL program.Forexample,theCIDESCO RPL DiplomaPracticalExam PreparationCourseis available throughLydiaSarfati.com https://www.lydiasarfati.com/courses/c idesco-rpl)andstreamlinesthe certificationprocessbyproviding structuredguidance,practicalexam preparation,andaclearpathwayto meetCIDESCO’sinternational standards.Studentsarewalked throughthepracticalelementsofthe examandcanperfecttheirtechnique in theexamsetting.Learningmodules includeanIntroduction,Hygieneand FirstAid, MakeupRemoval,Skin Analysis,Exfoliation, Extraction, Lashes& Eyebrowstints,Facial Massage,Masking,Makeup,Waxing andTheory
“You won’t go through this journey alone,” notes Director of Education Lacy Gill. “With these courses, we are here to help you prepare every step of the way, from study guides to exam tips and mentorships.”
“The CIDESCO RPL program opens doors, elevates resumes and shows the individual’s commitment to the global standards,” says Lydia Sarfati. “It provides the beauty therapist and esthetician with a chance for advancement, refinement of skills and the opportunity to become a leader in the esthetics field.”
Further information about the CIDESCO RPL progam is available at https://cidesco.com/qualification/be auty-therapy-post-graduate/, https://www.cidescousa.com/cours es-and-certifications, through the Lydia Sarfati Post-Graduate Skin Care Academy in Secaucus, NJ (https://www.lydiasarfati.com/cours es/cidesco-rpl) and the Institute of Esthetics, Cosmetology & Massage in Houston, TX.
REFERENCES:
1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personalcare-and-service/skincarespecialists.htm
JULY
UV Safety Awareness Month
11 – International Essential Oils Day
24 – International Self-Care Day
AUGUST
Psoriasis Awareness Month
Happiness Happens Month
SEPTEMBER
Organic September
18 – World Wellness Weekend
23 – National Fitness Day
OCTOBER
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
10 – World Mental Health Day
18 – Menopause Awareness Day
NOVEMBER
Movember
National Diabetes Month
5 – Stress Awareness Month
8-9 - Diwali
17 – Self-Care Week
DECEMBER
Decembeard
24 – Christmas
31 – New Years Eve
AUGUST
29 – 31 - CIDESCO Fiji Congress 2026 Nama Fiji is proud to announce that it will host the prestigious CIDESCO International World Congress from 29–31 August 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Nadi Bay Resort & Spa, bringing the global beauty and wellness industry’s most respected leaders, educators, and innovators to Fiji for the very first time.
8-9 - Hud & Kosmetik– The largest trade fair in the Swedish beauty industry!
Hud & Kosmetik is the ultimate meeting place and source of inspiration for everyone working in the beauty industry. For two days, professionals, experts, suppliers and the press gather to share ideas, news, and inspiration. Take the opportunity to network, gain insights and discover the latest trends in the industry.
The CIDESCO Associates Membership is open to brands and suppliers to the professional beauty, spa, aesthetics and wellness industries and individual professionals within these sectors.
There are a number of benefits to becoming an Associate member of CIDESCO. This includes use of the CIDESCO Associates logo, a profile on the CIDESCO International website and connection with the CIDESCO global membership which spans worldwide.
To find out more contact info@cidesco.com
Top Row from left: Madge Wallace in Johannesburg, Lee’s Beauty Centre & Spa in India, Nickels Beauty Institute in Barbados. Middle Row from Left: Students from Elite Beauty School in Zimbabwe, International Beauty School, India. Bottom Row from left: LTA School of Beauty, iicaglobal in India, Hudpleieakademiet in Norway, VIBA in Lebanon,