vcc.ca
ESTH 1020: Skin & Body Therapy Specialized Treatments and Services
Effective date
January 2027
Department
Esth-Skin & Body Non-ITA
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
In this course students continue to build on the foundational knowledge from ESTH 1010. Students advance into specialized facial treatments using electrical equipment, including microdermabrasion, microcurrent, galvanic, LED, and ultrasonic technologies. Students also explore the theory of medical‑grade laser therapies, including IPL, laser, LED, and light therapy.
Incorporating professional‑grade products and chemical ingredients for corrective skin treatments, students enhance their understanding of ingredient technology. Students further develop skills in face and body treatments, including holistic massage, stone therapy massage, aromatherapy using essential oils, and lymphatic drainage. Emphasis is placed on client comfort, proper draping, and therapist ergonomics to support a professional and practical treatment experience.
In addition, students are introduced to advanced nail techniques, light‑curing technology, basic nail art techniques, and luxury hand and foot treatments.
Throughout the course, students learn in a professional health and wellness environment that provides real‑life, hands‑on experience. Students also participate in an offsite work experience, gaining insight into industry practices, business operations, and the daily running of a real‑world setting.
Students continue to build on outcomes from Qualifications Scotland to support progression toward unit accreditations.
Credits
16.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
ESTH 1010.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe the function and structures of anatomy and physiology systems as they relate to skin and body therapy processes.
- Use professional-grade products and chemical ingredients to perform corrective skin treatments and advanced skin techniques.
- Perform specialized facial treatments using a range of electrical modalities while adhering to safety considerations and recognizing contraindications.
- Advise clients on precautions and post-treatment care, tailored to various skin types and concerns.
- Perform face and body massage treatments, including relaxation body massage, stone massage, aromatherapy, and lymphatic drainage massage to help improve body functions and promote wellness for a holistic and comprehensive spa experience, implementing proper body mechanics and client/therapist positioning.
- Perform luxury manicure and pedicure therapies while adhering to safety considerations and recognizing contra indications
- Apply techniques in natural nail advancements, nail art and light-curing technology.
- Perform specialized holistic facial treatment techniques including scalp massage and cold modalities while adhering to safety considerations and recognizing contra indications
- Develop professional and personalized resumes and cover letters showcasing their key skills, unique strengths, and relevant experience in the health and wellness sector.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 100
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 150
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 150
Total Hours: 400
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 150
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 150
Total Hours: 400
Instructional Strategies
Students will be assessed on their theoretical and practical knowledge throughout the program. This evaluation involves a mix of assignments, projects, client services, and exams. Instructors will actively observe students and use practical assessment guides to measure their ability to apply what they've learned in real‑world scenarios. To advance in the program, students must achieve a minimum 70% score in combined theoretical and practical assessments for each course topic.
Students can retake a maximum of two theory exams per course when failing in theoretical exams.
Students must maintain an attendance rate of 90% per course to proceed to the next level and complete the program.
Students are given the opportunity to be assessed on their theoretical and practical knowledge and receive unit accreditation from Qualifications Scotland. To achieve the Qualifications Scotland units, students must obtain a minimum score of 70% on the theory written tests and be marked “successful” on all required practical tasks.
Students can retake a maximum of two theory exams per course when failing in theoretical exams.
Students must maintain an attendance rate of 90% per course to proceed to the next level and complete the program.
Students are given the opportunity to be assessed on their theoretical and practical knowledge and receive unit accreditation from Qualifications Scotland. To achieve the Qualifications Scotland units, students must obtain a minimum score of 70% on the theory written tests and be marked “successful” on all required practical tasks.
Grading System
Percentages
Passing grade
70%
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Practicum |
25 |
Spa work experience and related assignments |
|
Project |
15 |
Presentations and independent research projects. |
|
Assignments |
15 |
Completion of workbooks and independent study activities. |
|
Reflect |
5 |
Reflective practice assignments. |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
10 |
VCC Topic quizzes |
|
Clinical Examination |
10 |
VCC examination for Pedicure and Gel Polish |
|
Lab Work |
20 |
Hands on practice of course skills and techniques in VCC's public health and wellness spa, with competencies documented to show skill progression |
Course topics
- Face and Body Wellness and Massage Modalities include Stone Therapy, Aromatherapy, Pressure Point, Lymphatic Drainage, and Holistic Facial Treatments
- Anatomy and Physiology Structure and Function- Cardiovascular, Lymphatic, Endocrine, Digestive, Nervous and Olfactory Body Systems
- Natural Nail Enhancements and Light-Curing Technology for Hand and Foot
- Advanced Skin Treatment with Electrotherapy
- Resume Building and Self-branding
- Basic Nail Art Techniques
- Luxury Manicure and Pedicure Treatment Therapy
- Customer Service through Public Health and Wellness Spa Experience
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.