Level 5, 6 or 7: Which Aesthetics Diploma Do You Actually Need?

Level 5, Level 6 and Level 7 often get described as one ladder you have to climb rung by rung. That is not quite how it works. Each ProQual diploma covers a different set of treatments, and the right one for you depends on two things: what you want to offer, and what you already hold.

Below is a plain comparison using the figures in ProQual’s own specifications, followed by where we would usually suggest you start.

The short answer

• Anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers: that is Level 7.
• Microneedling and chemical peels: that is Level 5.
• A wider advanced skin menu, such as skin boosters, mesotherapy, fat reduction or advanced micropigmentation: that is Level 6, where you choose at least three treatment units.
• Not a nurse or doctor but set on injectables? You will need a Level 5 or Level 6 diploma before Level 7.

Level 5, 6 and 7 side by side

Level 5: microneedling and chemical peels

Level 5 has five mandatory units: infection control, professional practice, anatomy and physiology for advanced aesthetic practice, microneedling, and chemical peels. Two of those, anatomy and professional practice, are themselves set at Level 6, which tells you how much theory sits behind the hands-on work.

There is no experience-only route into Level 5. You need a regulated Level 4 in aesthetic practice and a valid Level 3 first-aid qualification. Each practical skill is observed at least six times, and for microneedling that means three face and three body treatments. Full details are on our Level 5 Diploma page.

Level 6: build your own advanced skin menu

Level 6 shares the same three core units as Level 5: infection control, professional practice, and anatomy and physiology. You then choose at least three of seven treatment units: microneedling, chemical peels, micro-needle mesotherapy, no-needle mesotherapy, subcutaneous skin booster injections, non-surgical fat reduction and advanced micropigmentation.

It is also the only one of the three with an experience route. If you do not hold a regulated Level 4 but have five years of verifiable experience in the treatments it builds on, you can apply with evidence such as certificates, a CV and insurance documents. Everyone sits a trade test first. See the Level 6 Diploma page for the unit hours.

Level 7: injectables and complications

Level 7 is the qualification built for anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers. Its six mandatory units cover consultation, the psychology of facial aesthetics, values and ethics, botulinum toxin, temporary dermal fillers and the management of complications.

It is also the most demanding to assess. Every practical competence is observed at least ten times on live models, and the filler observations must include at least six needle and four cannula treatments.

One thing Level 7 does not do is make you a prescriber. Botulinum toxin is a prescription-only medicine, so if you cannot prescribe, you will work with someone who can. Our Level 7 Aesthetic Practice page goes through every unit and both entry routes.

Do you need all three?

No. The Level 7 qualification route asks for a Level 5 or a Level 6 diploma, not both, alongside a Level 6 qualification that includes anatomy and professional practice and a valid Level 3 first-aid qualification. Registered nurses and doctors can go straight into Level 7 today.

Choosing between Level 5 and Level 6 usually comes down to which skin treatments you want to offer while you work towards injectables. If you want a broader menu to earn from in the meantime, Level 6 gives you more choice.

What changes in January 2027

ProQual has published new versions of both higher diplomas, starting on 1 January 2027. The new Level 6 Diploma in Aesthetic Practice (610/7962/5) has 630 hours of total qualification time and accepts a Level 5 diploma, three years’ experience or healthcare registration. The new Level 7 Diploma in Aesthetic Practice and Injectable Procedures (610/7957/1) asks for a Level 6 diploma or degree in aesthetic practice, or healthcare registration plus a Level 6 with anatomy and physiology, as well as first aid and evidence of English.

ProQual has not said whether the current Level 7 will close. We cover the detail in our guide to the 2027 Level 7 changes.

Where to start, based on what you hold

• New to beauty and aesthetics: start with Level 3, which has no formal entry requirements, then move on to Level 4.
• You hold a regulated Level 4: you can go to Level 5 or Level 6.
• Five or more years of verifiable experience but no Level 4: look at the Level 6 experience route.
• You are a registered nurse or doctor: you can apply for Level 7 directly.
• On every route: keep a valid Level 3 first-aid qualification. We run the ProQual Level 3 first aid course for aesthetics at the academy.

Frequently asked questions

Is Level 7 harder than Level 6?

It is bigger and more heavily assessed. Level 7 has 660 hours of total qualification time against 535 for Level 6, and each practical competence is observed at least ten times rather than six. The subject is different too: injectables and complications rather than skin treatments.

Can I go straight to Level 6 without doing Level 5?

Yes. Level 6 asks for a regulated Level 4 qualification or five years of verifiable experience, plus valid first aid and a trade test. Level 5 is not a requirement.

Does Level 7 let me buy Botox myself?

No. Botulinum toxin is a prescription-only medicine and Level 7 does not give prescribing rights. If you are not a prescriber, you work with one.

Where can I study Level 5, 6 and 7 in North London?

At City Hair & Beauty Academy in Wood Green, a ProQual approved centre that teaches Level 3 to Level 7 under one roof. Message us on WhatsApp with what you already hold and we will tell you where you fit.