How to Get Insurance as a Beauty Student or Trainee

By Nadia Jibril, Education & Certification | International Institute of Beauty

Embarking on a career in beauty is both exciting and empowering. Whether you're learning to perfect a classic facial, applying lashes, or mastering massage techniques, there's one essential step you shouldn't overlook: student insurance.

As a beauty student or trainee, insurance may not be the first thing on your mind but it should be. It not only protects you while you train, but also lays the foundation for your future as a confident, professional therapist.

In this guide, we’ll break down why you need insurance, how to get it, and what to look for when choosing the right policy. Because being prepared is just as important as being passionate.

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Why Do Beauty Students Need Insurance?

Whether you’re practising on models, family, friends, or paying clients as part of your coursework, you’re working with real people and real risks. Accidents, allergic reactions, and misunderstandings can happen, even with the best intentions.

Student insurance protects you from:

• Claims of injury or allergic reactions

• Damage to clients’ property

• Accusations of negligence or poor results

• Legal fees or compensation costs

  
  

More importantly, most accredited training providers and industry bodies require you to hold student insurance before you can practise on models, submit case studies, or attend practical workshops.

What Does Beauty Student Insurance Cover?

Beauty student insurance typically includes:

Public Liability

Covers injury to a third party or damage to their property during your training.

Treatment Risk

Protects you if something goes wrong during a treatment such as a reaction to wax, tint, or products.

Product Liability

Covers issues caused by the products you use or provide during training.

Legal Expenses

Assists with legal fees if a claim is made against you.

Some insurers also include:

• Equipment cover

• Accidental damage

• Personal accident insurance

• Professional indemnity (in some cases)

  
  

As a student or trainee, your policy should be tailored to your current training level, while allowing you to work safely on models as part of your learning.

When Should You Get Insured?

As soon as you begin any practical training. Even if you’re still in the early stages of your course, the moment you begin offering treatments even on friends or models you should be insured.

Many training centres will request proof of student insurance before allowing you to complete practical elements or case studies.

Who Offers Student Beauty Insurance in the UK?

Several trusted providers offer student policies specifically for beauty trainees. Here are some of the most recognised in the UK:

1. ABT (Associated Beauty Therapists)

One of the most popular choices, ABT offers low cost student insurance covering a wide range of treatments. Their policies are accepted by most accredited training providers.

• Coverage: Over 200+ treatments

• Cost: From around £25 per year

• Bonus: Access to discounts on courses and CPD training

  
  

2. The Guild of Beauty Therapists

Another respected provider, The Guild offers comprehensive student insurance and includes membership benefits such as industry news, online courses, and forums.

• Coverage: Treatments included as you study

• Cost: Approx. £25 to 30 annually

• Bonus: Progresses easily to full insurance after graduation

  
  

3. Salon Gold (Student Insurance)

Salon Gold offers student cover for a broad range of beauty, holistic, and aesthetic treatments. Their platform is quick and user friendly.

• Coverage: Personalised by treatment

• Cost: Varies depending on what you study

• Bonus: Optional add ons for tools and equipment

  
  

4. Balens Insurance

Known for insuring complementary and holistic therapists, Balens also offers student insurance suitable for massage and wellness training.

What Treatments Are Covered?

Most policies allow you to practise only the treatments you are currently training in, and often require your course to be:

• Accredited by a recognised body (e.g., VTCT, ABT, BABTAC, The Guild)

• Tutor led, with practical components

• Documented with a certificate of enrolment or training schedule

  
  

Covered treatments may include:

• Facials

• Waxing

• Manicures and pedicures

• Lash and brow treatments

• Massage

• Skincare consultations

• Holistic therapies (e.g., Indian head massage, reflexology)

  
  

Advanced aesthetic treatments (like microneedling or injectables) are typically excluded unless you hold the necessary qualifications and a full practitioner policy.

What to Look for in a Student Insurance Policy

When choosing a policy, consider the following:

Accreditation

Make sure the insurer accepts your training provider and course accreditation. If in doubt, contact them with your course details.

Flexibility

Choose a policy that allows you to add treatments as you progress, especially if you’re enrolled in a multi module course.

Upgrade Options

Check how easily you can upgrade to a full professional policy once you qualify.

Price and Coverage Balance

While affordability is important, don’t sacrifice essential cover just to save a few pounds. Read the policy details carefully.

Support

A good insurer will offer guidance, fast responses, and claims support when you need it.

How to Apply for Beauty Student Insurance

Applying is usually a quick process and can often be done online. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Your full name and contact details

• Name of your training provider

• List of treatments you’re currently studying

• Course dates and estimated completion

• Payment details (most policies are paid annually)

  
  

Once approved, you’ll receive a certificate of insurance which you can share with your training provider and keep for your records.

Can You Practise on Clients with Student Insurance?

Yes but only in a training context.

That means:

• You’re still enrolled in your course

• You’re practising on models, friends, or volunteers as part of your coursework

• You’re not offering treatments as a full time business

  
  

Once you qualify, you’ll need to switch to a full professional insurance policy before charging for treatments or taking on paying clients independently.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Future Starts Now

Getting insured as a beauty student isn’t just a box to tick it’s an investment in your safety, your confidence, and your future career.

Whether you're learning facials, lashes, massage or beyond, insurance gives you peace of mind as you grow your skills. It shows your commitment to professionalism and ensures you're covered if something unexpected happens.

So don’t wait. As you take the first steps in your beauty journey, make sure you’re protected from day one because you deserve to feel confident and secure as you learn.