Ethical Makeup and Beauty Practice Online Short Course

This self-paced online short course is designed for both professionals and aspiring makeup artists at any level and conscious consumers who want to move beyond ‘clean beauty’ marketing and develop a truly informed, sustainable approach to cosmetics. The course explores essential concepts in sustainable beauty, including defining terms like 'natural', 'clean', 'zero-waste', 'sustainable', and 'green beauty', while emphasising the importance of certifications and labels.

Led by industry professional Crystabel Riley, the course combines practical techniques with critical thinking, guiding students through ingredient analysis, ethical decision-making, and low-waste practices. Students learn how to decode cosmetic labels, evaluate common ingredient controversies (such as microplastics and silicones), and reduce waste in both personal and professional kits.

Through hands-on tasks, reflection and discussion, students build the skills to navigate complex ethical debates, challenge misinformation, and create a personalised, conscious beauty practice. By the end of the course, students will have a clear action plan for integrating sustainability into their work as well as tools for further research and development as the industry constantly evolves.

This course is ideal for makeup artists, beauty professionals, skincare formulators and industry enthusiasts who are passionate about integrating sustainability and ethical practices into their work. It’s also well-suited for students and educators in beauty, as well as anyone looking to deepen their understanding of sustainable beauty principles and apply them both personally and professionally.

This self-paced course is designed for students aged 11 years and up. To ensure a supportive learning environment, students will be placed into age-appropriate groups for forum access and peer-to-peer support. Grouping will be determined by the date of birth provided at the time of booking.