Founder & CEO Meet Char
Charlene “Char” Stepney is the founder and owner of the Stepney Institute of Esthetics, where she combines over 30 years of industry experience with a passion for empowering beauty professionals A CIDESCO Diplomat, NCEA Certified Esthetician, Licensed Esthetics Educator, and Director of Membership for CIDESCO USA, Corneotherapist, Char also serves on the Advisory Board for Cosmetologists Chicago, home of the ABS Show
With a Bachelor’s degree in Business and currently pursuing her MBA, she blends her strong business acumen with certifications in holistic skin care, grounding, Ayurveda, and essential oils Coming from a legacy rooted in entertainment, she brings valuable expertise in promotion, marketing, and careerbuilding strategies
Through her work, Char is dedicated to helping professionals build careers that are not only successful but healthy, sustainable, and fulfilling for decades to come
CharleneStepney
RECOGNIZED PRIOR LEARNING
RECOGNIZED PRIOR LEARNING
PRE-QUALIFICATION
$250
No prior experience or training required
Qualify for the CIDESCO Skin Care & Beauty and Spa Management Exams
Our RPL Pre-Requirement Course is designed for experienced professionals seeking to validate their prior learning and fast-track their eligibility for the CIDESCO International Diploma This assessment-based program evaluates a candidate’s practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and professional readiness for the Skin Care Diploma
Skin Care Diploma Track Requirements:
Candidates must demonstrate competency in the following core areas of study: Basic Facial Techniques
Makeup Application & Final Look Presentation Brow & Lash Tinting
Strip Waxing & Stripless Waxing
Video Submission
Candidates must submit short videos (1–3 minutes each) demonstrating their skill in the following:
Performing a basic facial
Applying makeup and showcasing the final result
Tinting brows and lashes
Performing both strip and stripless waxing
Professional Documentation Requirements:
To support your application, candidates must also submit: Completed RPL Application for Proof of Professionalism
Copy of a current State License or Equivalent Credential
Two Professional Referrals
A Short Essay (250–500 words) outlining your experience, goals, and commitment to excellence and,
Complete A 30-Question Theory Exam covering:
Skin Anatomy & Physiology
Product Knowledge
Sanitation & Safety
Client Consultation
Facial Techniques
Waxing & Tinting
Makeup Fundamentals
BEAUTY AND SPA BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
BEAUTY AND SPA MANAGEMENT DIPLOMA 300 HOURS 100% ONLINE OR ONSITE
$2000
RPL for Business is Required
This comprehensive 300-hour Beauty and Spa Management Program is designed for individuals who are passionate about the wellness and beauty industry and are ready to take the next step into leadership and operational roles Whether you're a recent graduate, a working professional, or an entrepreneur looking to open your own spa, this course provides the essential tools, insights, and hands-on experience needed to effectively manage a beauty salon, spa, or wellness center The curriculum emphasizes both the theory and application of spa and salon business operations, giving candidates a deep understanding of how to create, manage, and grow a successful spa business With flexible delivery options available both 100% onsite or online, students can customize their learning experience to match their schedules and learning preferences.
Key Areas of Study:
Operational Management: Students will gain a clear understanding of daily spa operations, workflow optimization, guest flow, sanitation protocols, vendor relationships, and inventory control.
Stock Control: Learn how to manage inventory, track usage, minimize waste, and maintain proper stock levels, all of which are essential to maintaining profitability.
Beauty and Spa Trends: Stay updated with current and emerging trends in spa therapies, sustainable practices, product development, and digital technology in spa services.
Leadership and Human Resources: Develop leadership skills essential to team building, conflict resolution, performance reviews, and creating a healthy workplace culture.
Finance and Budgeting: Learn how to create and manage a spa budget, including cost control, pricing strategies, forecasting, and reading profit and loss statements.
Staffing, Hiring, and Training: Gain experience in writing job descriptions, interviewing, onboarding new staff, and maintaining legal and professional standards.
SKIN CARE DIPLOMA
SKIN CARE DIPLOMA
600 HOUR TRAINING EQUIVALENCY
$1250
Prerequisite: complete the RPL (Recognized Prior Learning On-Line Course)
Join the elite in the world of beauty and wellness with our CIDESCO Exam Training Program designed to help you master core international standards and gain global recognition. Program Overview
This program includes a focused 4-day onsite training that culminates in the official CIDESCO examination. Candidates will review essential theory, refine technical skills, and receive expert guidance to ensure confidence and competence on exam day.
Key Areas of Study
Advanced Facial Techniques
Strip Waxing & Stripless Waxing
Makeup Design & Application
Brow and Lash Tinting
Client Care and Professional Ethics
Sanitation and Sterilization Standards
Exam Structure
The CIDESCO exam is a 3-hour assessment that includes:
Written Examination: Theory & multiple-choice questions (MCQ) 2000 3000-word MLA formatted paper on suggested topics
Verbal Assessment: Professional communication, analysis, comprehension & consultation skills
Practical Examination: Hands-on demonstration of techniques in each key area
Prerequisites:
Candidates must:
Hold an esthetics license for at least 2 years.
Must be able to prove consistent practice in the field
Be recommended by a CIDESCO-accredited school or training provider
Must successfully complete the Recognized Prior Learning Intro
Certification Outcome
Successful candidates will be awarded the prestigious CIDESCO Skin Care Diploma, the world’s most recognized qualification for Aesthetics and Beauty Therapy professionals.
