Seasoned professional estheticians and beauty therapists now have a pathway to elevating their career to an international standard with the CIDESCO Recognized Prior Learning (RPL) program.  In the past, estheticians who obtained their license without a CIDESCO diploma would need to spend years of study and tuition fees to return to school for CIDESCO credentials.  Now, with the RPL program, beauty professionals with at least two years’ experience can apply for the program to utilize their hard-earned knowledge from the workplace and prior studies. This program allows beauty therapists and esthetics practitioners to take their expertise to the next level and earn a CIDESCO diploma, one of the most prestigious certifications in the beauty industry, to refine skills and stand out as a globally recognized professional.

This program streamlines the certification process by providing structured guidance, practical exam preparation, and a clear pathway to meet CIDESCO’s international standards. Instead of starting from scratch, candidates leverage their hands-on experience while receiving expert support to successfully complete the required practical examination.

The CIDESCO RPL Program

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.

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 academies by drawing back alumni for refresher programs and mentorship.  Whether you are a student pursuing a CIDESCO diploma, an educator preparing the next generation of professionals, or an esthetician expanding your credentials, you are now a part of the global family that prioritizes knowledge, ethics and exceptional client care.”

In addition, CIDESCO diplomates and members have access to global networking, continuing education opportunities, and can participate in events like the CIDESCO International Congress and Conferences to access insights on innovation, science and global beauty trends.

How to Fast-Track Your Path to the CIDESCO INTERNATIONAL SKIN CARE  Diploma

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 Post-Graduate 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, a practical exam and assessment of the project with case histories.

Steps towards acquiring the CIDESCO RPL diploma include:

Step One: Become a CIDESCO member in your country.

Step Two:  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 Three: Schedule the exam through the CIDESCO school or section.

Step Four: 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 Five: 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 Six: 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 Seven: Take the final Practical Exam demonstrating esthetics skills.  This is taken in person at their school or section.

Proper preparation is key to obtaining the diploma, so it is crucial that potential candidates avail themselves of an accredited CIDESCO RPL program. For example, the CIDESCO RPL Diploma Practical Exam Preparation Course is available through LydiaSarfati.com and streamlines the certification process by providing structured guidance, practical exam preparation, and a clear pathway to meet CIDESCO’s international standards. Students are walked through the practical elements of the exam and can perfect their technique in the exam setting. Learning modules include an Introduction, Hygiene and First Aid, Makeup Removal, Skin Analysis, Exfoliation , Extraction, Lashes & Eyebrows tints , Facial Massage, Masking, Makeup, Waxing and Theory

“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 Recognized Prior Learning (RPL) Program is available through the Lydia Sarfati Post-Graduate Skin Care Academy in Secaucus, New Jersey, and the Institute of Esthetics, Cosmetology & Massage in Houston, Texas.