Diploma In Natural Skincare Formulation Course (NSF)
Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation – Learn to Formulate Professional-Quality Skincare from Scratch
Are you ready to learn how to formulate clean, natural, and effective skincare products? Whether creating for personal use, offering bespoke solutions to salon or beauty therapy clients, or launching your own skincare brand, our Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation provides the knowledge and practical skills you need.
This comprehensive course teaches you the core principles of natural cosmetic formulation. You’ll learn how to develop a wide range of products from scratch, including cream emulsions, anhydrous formulations, gels, and liquid surfactant-based cleansers. You’ll gain a deep understanding of pH balance, skin acidity, and how to choose ingredients suited to different skin types—empowering you to create targeted, effective skincare.
Explore the therapeutic properties of natural ingredients such as butters, waxes, clays, botanical extracts, hydrolats, essential oils, and flower waters. Learn how to incorporate these natural elements into your formulations safely and effectively.
You’ll also uncover the common pitfalls in natural skincare formulation, such as stability issues and the critical role of preservatives. Importantly, we’ll guide you through the legal responsibilities of a skincare formulator—vital knowledge for anyone planning to sell their products professionally.
Diploma In Natural Skincare Formulation - Overview
- Includes 8 modules with step-by-step tutorials.
- Learn to formulate natural skincare products from scratch.
- Covers creams, balms, gels, and cleansers.
- Understand ingredients, skin types, and pH balance.
- Study product safety, stability, and preservation.
- Learn legal essentials for selling skincare products.
- Fully online with tutor support and flexible access.
- Suitable for beginners or aspiring skincare entrepreneurs.
Professional Memberships & Affiliations
Create and Launch Your Own Natural Skincare Brand
Our Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation is more than a course—it’s a creative journey where you’ll develop your own range of natural skincare products. From day one, you’ll apply your knowledge to hands-on formulation, creating real products using organic and botanical ingredients.
With guided tutorials, example formulations, and practical demonstrations, you’ll build confidence as you master essential techniques. You’ll be encouraged to develop and submit your own skincare range as part of the final assessment, turning knowledge into real-world application.
Each module explores different product types and skin needs, helping you build a personalised product portfolio—the perfect foundation for launching your own brand or skincare business.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is perfect for beginners, especially those passionate about making natural skincare products using organic and botanical ingredients. Whether you want to formulate for personal use or are considering starting your own beauty brand, this course provides a solid foundation.
It’s ideal for learners who have no previous experience with cosmetic formulation or knowledge of cosmetic regulations and manufacturing practices. We break down the essential concepts into clear, manageable lessons—no prior scientific background is needed.
A Perfect Starting Point for Future Skincare Entrepreneurs
If you’ve previously attended a short day course or workshop and want to refresh or expand your knowledge, this diploma is the perfect next step. It offers a deeper, more structured learning path, helping you transition from hobbyist to professional.
Whether you dream of launching a natural skincare brand or want to understand formulation professionally, this course will equip you with the skills, confidence, and practical tools to move forward.
Harness the Power of Essential Oils in Skincare
As essential oil experts and experienced aromatherapists, we place a strong focus on the safe, effective, and evidence-based use of essential oils in skincare. In this course, you’ll go beyond surface-level blending to understand how essential oils can be used as therapeutic, skin-active ingredients that deliver real benefits.
You’ll learn how to select and incorporate essential oils based on both aromatic profile and skin function, crafting products that are beautifully fragranced and targeted to support specific skin concerns. You’ll learn to formulate for sensitivity, inflammation, and other skin concerns, while also enhancing the user experience through scent synergy. Essential oils become a powerful part of your skincare toolkit.
Aromatherapeutic Formulation: Skincare with Purpose
This course introduces the principles of aromatherapeutic formulation, where essential oils are not just fragrance—they’re functional ingredients. You’ll explore how their natural properties support various skin conditions, from irritation and dryness to congestion and sensitivity.
You’ll also discover how to align aromatic profiles with skin goals, creating products that nurture both skin and senses. With our expertise in essential oil therapy, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how to use these natural actives safely and effectively in modern, high-performance skincare.
Formulate with Confidence, Guided by Experts
With our background in professional essential oil therapy, we guide you through essential topics such as dermal safety, dilution guidelines, contraindications, and the synergy of blends. You’ll gain the confidence to create products that are not only effective but also safe, compliant, and aligned with industry best practices.
This foundation in aromatherapeutic skincare gives you a distinct edge—whether you’re formulating for personal use, professional practice, or a natural skincare brand.
Next Enrolment Opens - Monday, 14th July 2025
Please note: Places on the Diploma in Natural Skincare course are limited to ensure the highest quality of training and support for each student. We recommend securing your spot early to avoid disappointment.
8 Modules of learning
Start your journey with a warm welcome to Purodem and full access to your course dashboard and student community via our online learning platform. In the NSF: Introduction Module, you’ll receive your Course Handbook, Reading List, and Personal Development Profile to guide your progress. You’ll also begin your Essential Oil Aroma Evaluations, which are an integral part of the course.
This module sets the foundation for your learning and gives you everything you need to navigate your Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation with confidence.
Module 1 - Skin Science & key Ingredients
Understand the anatomy and function of the skin and the key ingredients used in natural skincare.
Topics include:
- Anatomy & physiology of the skin
- A brief history of skincare from ancient to modern times
- What makes an ingredient “natural”
- Benefits of natural and organic ingredients
- Synthetic ingredients and common harmful additives
- Natural vs synthetic: truths and myths
- Introduction to carrier oils, fats, and waters
- Emulsifiers and gums in organic skincare
- Preservatives in natural products
- Understanding formulations vs. recipes and how to adapt them
Module 2 - Properties Of Essential Oils
Discover how to safely and effectively use essential oils in your natural skincare formulations.
Topics include:
- 20 popular essential oils and how they’re produced
- Categories of essential oils: citrus, floral, herbal, and spice
- Benefits of essential oils for the skin
- Calculating and blending essential oils in skincare
- Safe use of essential oils, including those to avoid
- Carrier oils and their properties
- Creating personalised aroma blends for your products
Module 3 - Workspace Setup & GMP
Lay a solid foundation with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and the essentials of a safe, organised workspace.
Topics include:
- What GMP is and why it matters in skincare formulation
- Setting up and managing your workspace efficiently
- Tips for working in shared spaces
- Essential equipment and proper storage/handling procedures
- Importance of record-keeping and legal responsibilities
- Using a formulation diary
- Creating a Product Information File (PIF)
- Writing your own GMP statement for your portfolio
Module 4 - Cosmetic Cream Emulsions
Learn to formulate and create cream emulsions tailored to different skin types and needs.
Topics include:
- Introduction to emulsions and their role in skincare
- Basic principles of making emulsions
- The versatility and function of emulsions
- Types of creams and lotions
- How to create and adapt a simple cream formulation
- Hands-on lessons in making creams for different skin types
- Designing and producing a finished cream emulsion for your portfolio submission
Module 5 – Gel-Based Products
Learn how to formulate and create gel-based skincare products for various skin needs and applications.
Topics include:
- Introduction to gel skincare products and their uses
- Basic principles of gel formulation
- The versatility of gel-based products
- Common gel products and their benefits
- Overview of different gel types
- How to create a simple gel formulation
- Practical lessons in making gels for various skin types
- Design and produce a gel-based product for your portfolio submission
Module 6 – Anhydrous Products
Explore how to formulate anhydrous skincare products such as body butters and balms, free from water.
Topics include:
- Introduction to anhydrous formulations
- Basic principles of anhydrous product creation
- The versatility of anhydrous products in skincare
- Why and when to use anhydrous formulations
- Overview of butters, balms, and their functions
- Benefits of water-free skincare products
- How to create a simple anhydrous oil-based formulation
- Theory and structure of different balm types
- Hands-on sessions for making butters and balms
- Design and produce an anhydrous product for portfolio submission
Module 7 – Surfactant Formulations
Master the formulation of cosmetic surfactant products such as cleansers and washes for different skin types.
Topics include:
- Introduction to surfactant products and their roles
- Core principles of surfactant formulation
- The versatility and variety of surfactant-based products
- Why surfactants are used in skincare ranges
- Overview of surfactant product types
- How to create a simple liquid soap formulation
- Understanding surfactant selection for skin compatibility
- Practical lessons in making surfactant cleansers and washes
- Design and produce a surfactant product for portfolio submission
Module 8 – Range Building & Regulatory Compliance
Learn how to develop a cohesive skincare range and understand the key legal requirements for selling your products.
Topics include:
- Identifying your target audience
- Planning your product range and selecting suitable packaging
- Understanding labelling laws and compliance
- Making ethical marketing claims
- How to get your products certified
- Introduction to toxicology and safety testing
- Basics of stability testing and what methods to use
- Obtaining product liability insurance
- Key regulations for selling skincare commercially
- Understanding region-specific legal requirements
Track Your Progress and Build Your Portfolio
Each of the eight modules is designed to build your knowledge and skills step by step, guiding you from beginner to confident skincare formulator. As you move through the course, you’ll:
Follow a clear, structured learning path with guided lessons and module checkpoints
Complete hands-on formulation tasks for every core product type
Build a personalised skincare range aligned to your goals
Submit practical assessments for tutor feedback and final review
Develop a full learning portfolio, including formulations, product samples, GMP documents, and your brand concept
By the end of the course, you’ll not only understand how to formulate natural skincare products—you’ll have a professional-level portfolio and the foundation to launch your own skincare brand or confidently formulate for personal or professional use.
Diploma In Natural Skincare Formulation - Summary
- Eight Comprehensive Modules: Delivered through our easy-to-use distance learning platform, allowing you to study the Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation from anywhere in the world.
- High-Quality Video Tutorials and Resources: Includes 4K and HD video lessons, downloadable course materials, and practical guides to support your formulation training.
- Self-Paced Online Learning: Study independently at your own pace with full access to structured modules and practical formulation exercises.
- Full Access to the Purodem Academy: Our exclusive learning environment allows you to connect with your course content, join student groups, and engage in community forums.
- Mobile Learning Convenience: Access your course and student community on the go via iPhone, iPad, and Android devices.
- Ongoing Tutor Support: Receive regular guidance and feedback from experienced tutors as you progress through your course.
- Internal Assessments and Final Evaluation: Complete module-based assignments and submit your final portfolio for tutor assessment and feedback.
- Professional Certification: Upon successful completion, you will receive your certificate, which qualifies you to obtain insurance and start your own skincare business or brand.
- Two-Year Course Access: You can enjoy flexible access to your course content for up to two years from the date of enrolment.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation is a comprehensive online course that teaches you how to formulate natural, organic skincare products safely, professionally, and effectively for personal or commercial use.
This course is ideal for beginners, beauty therapists, wellness professionals, or anyone interested in creating natural or organic skincare products for personal use or to start a skincare brand.
Yes! The entire course is delivered online through our easy-to-use learning platform, allowing you to study from anywhere in the world at your own pace.
You will have two years of access to complete the Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation, allowing you to fit your studies around your schedule.
No prior experience is needed. This Natural Skincare Formulation course is designed to guide complete beginners through all the essential formulation principles, techniques, and safety standards.
You’ll learn how to formulate a wide range of skincare products, including creams, balms, gels, serums, surfactant-based cleansers, and more, using natural and organic ingredients.
Yes. As essential oil experts, we teach evidence-based essential oil usage for skincare, including safety, skin compatibility, and how to create aromatherapeutic blends for specific skin needs.
Our course explains the key differences between natural and organic skincare formulation, covering ingredient sourcing, certification, and how to label and market your products appropriately.
Yes. This diploma meets high standards of professional training, preparing you to formulate confidently and meet legal requirements for launching a skincare business.
Yes. Once you’ve successfully completed all modules and submitted your final portfolio, you’ll be awarded a Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation, which can be used to obtain product liability insurance.
Absolutely. You’ll regularly have access to experienced tutors who can support you, answer questions, and provide personalised feedback on your progress.
Yes! This organic skincare formulation course includes training in product range development, branding considerations, GMP, and the legal compliance needed to sell your products professionally.
Through the Purodem Academy, you’ll receive access to 4K and HD video tutorials, downloadable formulation workbooks, example recipes, assessment templates, and student discussion forums.
Yes. You can access your course via our custom app on iPhone, iPad, and Android devices, making it easy to learn and stay connected wherever you are.
After successful completion, you’ll receive your diploma, build a full formulation portfolio, and have the confidence and qualifications to launch your own brand or work as a natural skincare formulator.
Course Pricing & Payment Options
The cost of the Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation (NSF) course is £795.00.
Payment Plan
For those who want to spread the cost of the NSF course, we offer the following payment plan option to spread the cost over six payments:
- Initial Payment: £295.00
- Five Monthly Instalments of £130.00 charged on the 1st of each month.
- The total cost of the NSF course via payment plan is £945.00 to cover the additional administration costs. Terms & Conditions apply.
Ready to Begin? Enrol Today!
Take the first step towards creating your own natural skincare range. Enrol now in our Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation and start learning how to formulate professional-quality, organic skincare products. Whether for personal use or to launch your own brand, everything you need to succeed starts here.