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UBT231X Threading services

Unit reference number: J/615/0799

Level: 2

Guided Learning (GL) hours: 20

Overview

This unit is about providing temporary hair removal using threading techniques. Learners will develop their knowledge and skills to prepare for and provide threading services. Learners will also develop their understanding of possible contra-indications to, as well as benefits and effects of, temporary threading services.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit, learners will:

LO1 Know the salon requirements for threading services

LO2 Understand the effects, benefits and precautions for threading services

LO3 Be able to prepare for threading services

LO4 Be able to provide threading services

Version 5

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Assessment requirements

Learners must produce a portfolio of evidence which includes: 1. Service portfolio 2. Summative practical assessment

1. Service portfolio

Learners must produce a service portfolio. The service portfolio must contain evidence that learners have:

Performed a minimum of 3 threading services - Eyebrows re-shape (suggested service time 20 minutes)

- Eyebrow tidy/maintenance (suggested service time 10 minutes)

- Upper lip (suggested service time 10 minutes)

- Chin/side of face (suggested service time 10 minutes)

Used all equipment - Couch

- Trolley

- Towels

- Additional support

- Waste disposal

- Mirror

- Powder

Used all resources - Thread

- Brow brush

- Sanitised scissors

- Aftercare soothing lotion

- Gloves

- Apron

- Bowls

- Sterilising or disinfecting solution

- Bedroll

- Tissues

- Cotton wool

Used all techniques - Mouth technique

- Hand technique

- Neck technique

Given all types of advice - Avoidance of activities which may cause contra-actions

- Recommended time intervals between threading treatments

- Suitable home care products and their use The portfolio must be completed prior to learners undertaking the one summative practical assessment.

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Evidence from the one summative practical assessment must also be presented in the portfolio.

2. Summative practical assessment

Learners must carry out a complete service which will be observed, and marked by centre assessors. The practical assessment must take place in a real or realistic working environment on a real client. At a minimum the practical assessment for this unit must cover:

Treatment – complete a threading service to re-shape an eyebrow area, in a commercially acceptable time

Resources – appropriate selection of equipment and consumables to demonstrate the full range of treatment and to meet the treatment needs and outcomes

Products – as a minimum the candidate must demonstrate the use of pre-threading preparation solutions and post threading soothing product

Recorded professional discussion can also be used as an assessment method attached to the practical assessment and is particularly useful for gathering evidence for criteria related to evaluation and reflection. Professional discussions should be planned and recorded.

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Unit content

LO1 Know the salon requirements for threading services

Describe how to set up the work area:

Prepare the work area to allow for - Ease of access and free movement around the couch

- Effective lighting

- Hygienic set up of couch and trolley

- Selection of products and equipment to meet the needs of the client

Ensure a safe working environment - Clean and hygienic work area

- The use of a suitable sterilisation and sanitisation for equipment

- No trailing wires

- Effective positioning of couch trolley and stool to allow ergonomic and safe practice

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Gloves, apron

Explain how professional beauty therapists present themselves:

Clean professional uniforms create a positive impression of the beauty therapist and the salon. Uniforms should be made from a comfortable fabric to facilitate the stretching involved in the treatment

Beauty therapists should wear closed in footwear, no jewellery, no piercings, short polish-free nails, hair neatly tied back, and any fringe secured

Personal hygiene and cleanliness including showering, covering cuts and abrasions, wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, oral hygiene, including clean teeth, fresh breath, are all important elements of professional presentation

Describe the salon requirements for record keeping:

Accurate appointment systems, stationery, loyalty, rewards, acknowledgement of occasions

How to establish and record clear information that is accurate and in logical order, how to refer to existing records

Skin sensitivity tests, adaptations and modifications, recommendations

Treatment planning and how to update records at the end of the treatment, update at each visit, maintained electronically, paper records

Describe the importance, purpose and methods of patch tests:

A patch test is designed to alert the therapist to any pre-disposed skin sensitivity on the client’s behalf. Any active, new or known ingredient that can potentially produce a reaction is usually patch tested 24-48 hours before treatment. All patch tests provided need to be noted and recorded, listing all products, where patch test took place on the body and, if appropriate, client signature and date

Patch testing would include all active or new products to be used within the treatment such pre and post treatment products. Client records need to be updated with results. Conducted to ascertain suitability of products and sensitivity of the client

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Patch test application techniques - Cleanse area (either ankle or wrist)

- Apply each threading product to the area

- Leave on for a minimum of 24 hours

- Explain positive and negative reactions

- Record results on record card, including products used and where placed

Explain how to interpret results of the patch test - Positive – red, itchy, irritated, swelling, sore

- Negative – no change to skin

Explain the insurance requirements for the delivery of threading services:

As a minimum a salon should hold where applicable, employers insurance as well as public liability insurance and professional indemnity

Identify the legal requirements for providing treatments to minors:

The age at which an individual is classed as a minor and how this differs nationally

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LO2 Understand the effects, benefits and precautions for threading services

Explain the effects and benefits of different hair removal techniques:

Tweezing

Shaving

Depilatory creams

Abrasive mitts

Sugaring

Threading

Electrical epilation machine

Electrical depilatory

Intense pulsed light

Laser

Waxing Describe the different working techniques:

Hand technique

Mouth technique

Neck technique

The correct methods for brow preparation, how to stretching and manipulating the skin during application and removal, the correct working speed of removal, understanding of direction of hair growth and removal method. Methods of ensuring client comfort

Describe the contra-indications to threading services:

Example of contra-indications that may prevent treatment – cardiovascular conditions, thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, hypotension, heart conditions, haemophilia, any condition already being treated by a GP or another practitioner, medical oedema, nervous and psychotic conditions, recent operations, diabetes, sexually transmitted infections, contagious infections, skin diseases, pubic lice, known allergies to products and ingredients thin and fragile skin

Examples of contra-indications that may restrict treatment – fever, medication affecting skin, blood or immune system, diabetes, moles, infected in-growing hairs, skin tags, menstruation, localised swelling, inflammation, cuts, bruises, abrasions, scar tissue, two years for major operation and six months for a small scar, sunburn, heat rash, hormonal implants, hypersensitive skin, loss of skin sensation, vascular skin, varicose veins, 48 hours after sun tanning, positive reaction to patch test, steroid based medication

Identify the possible contra-actions that may occur during or after a threading service:

Excessive erythema, skin irritation, abrasions, broken hairs, histamine reaction, excessive and diminished regrowth, inflammations itching, excessive perspiration, bruising, burning, in-growing hair, blood spotting, distortion of the follicle, folliculitis, possible change in pigmentation to the area over long period of time removing from the same area

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Explain how to effectively respond to contra-actions:

An allergic reaction to products – the client may experience sensitivity or a burning sensation. Remove all products immediately, apply a cold compress, record the information on the client’s record card; seek medical advice if symptoms persist

An allergic reaction to products – the client may experience redness, itching, swelling, rash, burning or stinging, blistering. Remove all products immediately with suitable remover, clean the area with cool water, apply a cool compress, record the information on their record card, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. Recommend hypo-allergenic products

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LO3 Be able to prepare for threading services

Prepare and check the client, work area, equipment and products for treatment:

Prepare treatment area according to salon requirements – ensure a sturdy couch, trolley and stool are available to use. Organise access to threading products and equipment

Prepare yourself and your client using the appropriate products or techniques according to manufacturer’s instructions

Ensure all equipment and products are to hand

Ensure patch testing has been carried out and recorded 24-48 hours previously to test reaction levels if necessary

Agree the service and check for contra-indications or restrictions to treatment:

Verbal communication – speaking manner and tone, sensitive to client, open questioning related to treatment

Non-verbal communication – eye contact, body language, listening

Record keeping – contra‑indication check, signatures, name, address, contact numbers, age range, reason for treatment, occupation, sport/hobbies, medical history, allergies/hypersensitivity, contact lenses, contra-actions, skin sensitivity tests recorded

Establish - Hair growth pattern and skin condition the treatment area

- Current sensitivity levels, medication and health concerns

- Client expectations and wishes. Client commitment, both financial and economic

- Age of client and the legal requirements for providing treatments to minors

Explain the treatment procedure to the client:

Explain how the client should position themselves for treatment, how long the treatment will take and the sensation the client should expect to feel. Discuss the client’s expectations from treatment. Discuss how the client’s personal influencing factors may influence treatment

Instruct the client on clothing removal and positioning:

Removal of clothing and jewellery as appropriate, positioning throughout the treatment

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LO4 Be able to provide threading services

Prepare the client’s skin for service:

The area should be cleansed using appropriate antiseptic skin cleanser

Skin should be prepared with appropriate medium (powder)

Advise the client on how and where to support the skin as required Select the equipment to achieve the desired results:

Selection of equipment and thread to suit client’s treatment objectives

Carry out threading techniques:

Learner to wear gloves to treat where required

Ensure the client is suitably positioned and the areas is exposed and effectively lit for treatment

Skin sanitiser is applied to the area and skin is blotted dry with clean tissue

A light dusting of powder is applied to the area, enabling the thread to slip more easily over the skins surface

Prepare the thread by looping and twisting into position

The hair is removed by pulling the thread taut, against the direction of hair growth. Multiple hairs are removed in one go with a multiple plucking effect

The learner uses a seesaw motion to move over the area and remove all unwanted hairs in a methodical manner

Ensure work techniques minimise discomfort to the client

Reassure the client and communicate positioning instructions clearly during the service

Clear away and remove hairs that might be lying on the client’s skin with clean cotton pads and dispose of appropriately

Apply a soothing lotion to the area to cool and calm the skin

Treatment completed within a commercially acceptable time Provide suitable aftercare advice to the client:

Avoid heat treatments, exercise, UV Rays, self-tanning products, perfumed products and heavy make-up for 24 hours

Advise client on frequency of treatment – every 3-6 weeks – depending on hair growth

Healthy eating and advice on fluid intake is recommended to ensure the client’s skin is at optimum health and receptive to future treatment

All lifestyle activities individual to the client that may need to be considered for the individual and appropriate advice given, such as smoking, extreme outdoor sports or a dedication to swimming

Advice on retail products to continue the beneficial effects of treatment – hair growth inhibitor products and exfoliation products

Update and maintain treatment records:

Record the outcomes of the treatment ensuring records are up to date with the products used, information of particular note, any reactions for the treatment, aftercare given and feedback from the client with all patch testing results clearly recorded and signed for

Prepare the area for the next service:

Clean the product tops and bottles and return to storage, dispose of all waste as per any local government guidelines, place used towels in laundry, tidy all consumables away following salon requirements. Reset the couch with fresh towels and couch roll ready for the next treatment. Ensure the area is left clean and prepared for the next service. Ensure effective ventilation is achieved between services

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Skin cancer awareness

Please note this information will not be assessed for the achievement of this unit. Public awareness of skin cancer has never been higher, and yet skin cancer remains the

fastest growing cancer in the UK, especially amongst young people. The chances of a

positive outcome can be dramatically increased with early identification and diagnosis.

Professionals in hair, beauty, sports massage and health and wellbeing industries work

closely with clients and in many cases have sight of areas of skin which may not be easily

visible to the client. An informed awareness of the signs, symptoms and changes of

appearance to be aware of when checking for early signs of cancer is a crucial tool for the

conscientious practitioner in order to provide the most thorough service and in some cases,

possibly lifesaving information signposting.

Signs to look for when checking moles include utilising the ABCDE guide:

A - Asymmetry – the two halves of the area/mole may differ in their shape and not match.

B - Border – the edges of the mole area may be irregular or blurred and sometimes show

notches or look ‘ragged’.

C - Colour – this may be uneven and patchy. Different shades of black, brown and pink may

be seen.

D - Diameter – most but not all melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. If any mole gets

bigger or changes see your doctor.

E - Elevation/evolving – elevation means the mole is raised above the surface and has an

uneven surface. Looks different from the rest or changing in size, shape or colour. Anyone

can get a suspicious mole or patch of skin checked out for free by the NHS by visiting their

doctor, who may then refer to a dermatologist (an expert in diagnosing skin cancer).

If you require any additional NHS information please refer to https://www.nhs.uk/be-clear-on-

cancer/symptoms/skin-cancer

If your learners are interested in learning more about skin cancer awareness alongside this

qualification, VTCT runs the following qualification: VTCT Level 2 Award in Skin Cancer

Awareness for Non-Healthcare Professionals.

This qualification has been specifically designed for those working in the sports massage,

health and wellbeing, beauty, hairdressing and barbering sectors. It will enable learners to

identify any changes to their client’s skin and to highlight those changes to the client using

appropriate language and communication skills. It will enable the learner to raise awareness

of skin cancer and signpost their clients to public information about skin cancer.

This qualification will enable hair, beauty and wellbeing professionals to gain the appropriate

knowledge and communication skills required to provide non-diagnostic, professional advice

and information to clients in a discrete, empathetic and confidential manner.

For more information please refer to the Record of Assessment book: https://qualifications.vtct.org.uk/finder/qualfinder/1Record%20of%20Assessment%20Book/AG20529.pdf

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Assessment criteria

In order to pass this unit, learners must achieve all pass criteria. The pass criteria relate to the proficient demonstration of skills and knowledge.

Learning outcome

The learner must:

Pass

The learner can:

LO1 Know the salon requirements for threading services

P1 Describe how to set up the work area

P2 Explain how professional beauty therapists present themselves

P3 Describe the salon requirements for record keeping

P4 Describe the importance, purpose and methods of patch tests

P5 Explain the insurance requirements for the delivery of threading services

P6 Identify the legal requirements for providing treatments to minors

LO2 Understand the effects, benefits and precautions for threading services

P7 Explain the effects and benefits of different hair removal techniques

P8 Describe the different working techniques

P9 Describe the contra-indications to threading services

P10 Identify the possible contra-actions that may occur during or after a threading service

P11 Explain how to effectively respond to contra-actions

LO3 Be able to prepare for threading services

P12 Prepare and check the client, work area, equipment and products for treatment

P13 Agree the service and check for contra-indications or restrictions to treatment

P14 Explain the treatment procedure to the client

P15 Instruct the client on clothing removal and positioning

LO4 Be able to provide threading services

P16 Prepare the client’s skin for service

P17 Select the equipment to achieve the desired results

P18 Carry out threading techniques

P19 Provide suitable aftercare advice to the client

P20 Update and maintain treatment records

P21 Prepare the area for the next service

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Assessment guidance

Assessors must use the amplified assessment guidance in this section to judge whether assessment criteria have been achieved in the practical assessment.

P12 Prepare and check the client, work area, equipment and products for treatment

Learners must demonstrate that they have set up the treatment area in line with treatment requirements and have met health and safety requirements (e.g. the work area is free from clutter to prevent tripping hazards, the equipment is safe to use and has an up to date P.A.T. label). All the required products for the treatment are to hand and are fully stocked in advance.

P13 Agree the service and check for contra-indications or restrictions to treatment

Learners must demonstrate that they have consulted with the client using appropriate questioning techniques, as well as conducting visual and manual checks for contra-indications. Learners must explain the treatment in full to the client and ascertain the client’s treatment expectations. Learners must correctly identify the client’s hair growth pattern, skin condition and any treatment limiting conditions during the consultation and recommend the most appropriate method of threading. Any treatment preferences should also be discussed and agreed with the client.

Learners must record – contra-indication check, signatures, name, address, contact numbers, age range, reason for treatment, occupation, sport/hobbies, medical history, allergies/hypersensitivity, contact lenses, contra-actions, skin sensitivity tests.

P14 Explain the treatment procedure to the client

Learners must explain the treatment step by step to the client. At a minimum the explanation should include the treatment procedure for threading and the level of discomfort the client may feel during the treatment. All communication must be clear, concise and delivered in a manner that the client can easily understand. The therapist must check the clients understanding of the explanation.

P15 Instruct the client on clothing removal and positioning

Learners must demonstrate that they have provided their client with instructions on how to prepare for the threading service. Learners must demonstrate that they instructed the client as to what (if any) clothing or jewellery needs to be removed with safe storage offered. The provision of modesty covering was arranged where required and advice and guidance was provided to the client on how to position themselves for safety and comfort and to facilitate the service.

P16 Prepare client’s skin for service

Learners must demonstrate that they have prepared the area to be treated with the most appropriate products. The area should be cleansed using suitable pre-threading products and powder or oil applied if this is a requirement in accordance with technical instructions. Learners must demonstrate they have offered suitable and adequate covering for the client’s clothing or surrounding areas of skin not being treated.

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P17 Select the equipment to achieve the desired results

Learners must demonstrate that they have chosen the correct equipment and products for the client’s skin condition and hair type. Learner will demonstrate the use of thread, brow brush, sanitised scissors, aftercare soothing lotion, gloves, apron, eyebrow brush, bowls, sterilising or disinfecting solution, bedroll, tissues and cotton wool all utilised in the most appropriate manner to facilitate the treatment.

P18 Carry out threading techniques

Learners must demonstrate that they have checked client comfort levels regularly during the treatment. The client must be in a suitable position and thoroughly supported, learners must adopt a working position that does not put undue strain on their backs.

Learners must demonstrate correct application and removal of the hairs with threading services according to hair growth patterns and technical instructions. The thread must be hygienically applied ensuring the area is thoroughly prepared prior to treatments.

Learners must demonstrate sufficient support of the area during application and removal. Removal must be at a suitable speed to minimise discomfort to the client. Learners must ensure treatment area is left free from hair. Learners must apply a suitable aftercare product and gain approval from the client on the finished result. Learners must complete the threading service in a commercially acceptable time.

P19 Provide suitable aftercare advice to the client

Learners must demonstrate that they have provided the client with a minimum of the following advice: Avoid heat treatments, exercise, UV Rays, self-tanning products, perfumed products and make-up for 24 hours. Advise client on frequency of treatment – every 3-6 weeks, depending on hair growth pattern. Lifestyle activities that may need to be considered. Advice on retail products to continue the beneficial effects.

P20 Update and maintain treatment records

Learners must demonstrate that they have updated and recorded the client records in line with salon requirements to cover a minimum of the following information: aftercare advice, products used, treatment performed and client’s skin reaction to treatment and future recommendations for treatments.

P21 Prepare the area for the next service

Learners must demonstrate that they have prepared the treatment area by wiping down couch and trolley, removal and storage of products and unused consumables, removal for laundering of used towels, throwing away couch roll or used consumables, refreshing the consumables used and ensuring ease of set up for next therapist. Learners must dispose of all waste as per any local government guidelines.

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Resources

The special resources required for this unit are access to a real or realistic working environment which supports the provision of threading services.

Delivery guidance

Teachers are encouraged to use innovative, practical and engaging delivery methods to enhance the learning experience. Learners may benefit from:

Meaningful employer engagement so they relate what is being learned to the real world of work and understand commercial competency and the use of products, tools and equipment

Work experience within a commercial salon so they can practise their skills in a real environment

Using interactive information and technology, systems and hardware so they can learn about concepts and theories, research current trends, research product knowledge and produce visual aids

Links with other units

This unit is closely linked with the following units:

UCO34M Health, safety and hygiene

The health and safety unit will provide knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities for health and safety as defined by any specific legislation covering the role of a professional therapist. This unit greatly underpins all practical unit delivery. Learners will be required to apply their knowledge and understanding of health and safety when preparing for and providing services/treatments in real or realistic working environment.

UBT193M Consultation techniques and client care

Client consultation before all threading services is a legal requirement and failure to consult properly with clients prior to treatment could invalidate therapy insurance. It is essential that therapists elicit information from their clients about their medical history, including any allergies as well as checking for contra-indications. The client consultation unit underpins all technical units within this qualification and should be delivered prior to the delivery of any technical beauty therapy unit

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Version Details of amendments Date

v5 Skin cancer awareness page added

14/06/17