CODE OF ETHICS | SIGMA INTERNATIONAL BOARD

PREAMBLE

SIGMA International Board (SIB) is dedicated to advancing high-quality education, ethical practice, and professional excellence in aesthetic and cosmetology training worldwide. As an independent, private, non-regulatory body, SIB functions as an academic and professional alliance rather than a licensing authority.

SIB is founded on principles of safety, integrity, fairness, and global best practices. All trainers, members, students, and partner institutions associated with SIB are expected to comply with this Code of Ethics in every educational, clinical, and professional activity conducted under its name.

1. Legal and Regulatory Responsibility

1.1 All SIB members and certificate holders must strictly follow the laws and professional regulations of the country or region in which they practice or teach.

1.2 Completion of any SIB training or certification does not grant legal authority to practice. Each participant is solely responsible for ensuring that their professional activities are permitted within their legal scope of practice.

1.3 SIB / SIGMA does not support, authorize, or legitimize unlicensed or illegal professional practice.

2. Academic and Training Integrity

2.1 All educational programs, assessments, and certifications must be conducted in a fair, transparent, and competency-based manner.

2.2 Trainers must present courses honestly and must not exaggerate outcomes, privileges, or professional rights associated with SIB certification.

2.3 Educational content must be grounded in scientific evidence and regularly revised to align with international standards and advancements.

3. Client Safety and Clinical Ethics

3.1 Patient and model safety must always take priority, including strict adherence to hygiene, infection control, and informed consent practices.

3.2 Any hands-on training involving human subjects must comply with local legal requirements, including proper documentation of consent and clear communication of risks and limitations.

3.3 No procedure may be performed without appropriate knowledge, training, supervision, and the full understanding of the individual receiving the procedure.

4. Professional Behavior

4.1 All SIB members must maintain professionalism, mutual respect, and cultural sensitivity in educational and professional environments.

4.2 Discrimination, harassment, abuse of authority, or unethical conduct toward patients, students, or colleagues is strictly prohibited.

4.3 False advertising, misleading claims, or suggesting government or medical council recognition where none exists is forbidden.

5. Transparency and Representation

5.1 SIB certifications must always be described as private, educational recognitions and not as licenses or regulatory approvals.

5.2 Members and institutions must accurately disclose their qualifications and must not misrepresent credentials or professional titles.

5.3 Use of SIB / SIGMA logos, titles, or certificates in promotions must be accompanied by an appropriate disclaimer clarifying SIB’s non-regulatory status.

6. Institutional and Partner Accountability

6.1 Partner academies and affiliated institutions must function with ethical governance, safety standards, and honest communication.

6.2 Institutions utilizing SIB certification must:
A. Clearly state that SIGMA International Board is an independent, non-governmental alliance.
B. Ensure that training is delivered by appropriately qualified trainers to eligible learners.
C. Maintain insurance coverage, legal compliance, and student protection policies.

7. Breach of Ethics and Disciplinary Measures

Violation of this Code may lead to:
A. Suspension or cancellation of SIB certification or membership.
B. Withdrawal of institutional affiliation or partnership.
C. Referral to legal or regulatory authorities in cases involving fraud, misconduct, or harm.

Acknowledgment

All SIGMA members, certified professionals, trainers, and partner institutions must formally agree to this Code of Ethics before participating in or conducting any SIB-associated program.

LEGAL & ETHICAL DISCLAIMER

SIGMA International Board is not governed by any medical council, statutory body, or government authority and does not issue licenses to practice medicine or cosmetology. All training and certifications provided by SIB are intended solely for educational and skill-development purposes.

Participants remain fully responsible for complying with the professional laws and regulations of their own jurisdiction. For example, certain countries may permit students to perform limited facial aesthetic procedures, while other regions impose stricter restrictions. Such variations must be respected at all times.

SCOPE OF PRACTICE

SIGMA International Board (SIB) provides international education, training, and certification programs designed to support learning, professional growth, and skill development in aesthetic and cosmetology-related fields.

Laws governing who may perform aesthetic or cosmetic procedures are different in every country and sometimes differ within regions of the same country. These rules are defined by local governments, medical councils, licensing bodies, and regulatory authorities.

In certain regions, non-physician professionals such as dentists, nurses, or trained cosmetology practitioners may be legally allowed to perform selected non-surgical aesthetic procedures within defined anatomical areas. In other regions, the same procedures may be restricted exclusively to medical doctors. Practicing outside one’s legally permitted scope may result in legal, professional, or ethical consequences.

Role and Limitations of SIGMA International Board (SIB)

SIGMA International Board functions as an international educational and certification organization. It is not a governmental or statutory licensing authority.

Certification or training provided by SIB does not grant legal permission to practice aesthetic or cosmetic procedures in any country.

SIB programs are intended to enhance knowledge, technical competence, and international professional credibility, but they do not replace national licensing, professional registration, or legal authorization.

All students, trainers, academies, and affiliated partners must independently verify and follow the rules set by their local health authorities, professional councils, and regulatory agencies before performing or teaching any procedures.

Participation in SIB courses does not exempt anyone from complying with local laws, professional guidelines, or ethical standards.

Important Guidance for Students and Partner Academies

Before enrolling in or conducting any SIB training program, all parties must ensure that :

- The trainer is properly licensed and legally permitted to teach and perform the procedures within their country or region.

- The student holds valid qualifications and is legally allowed to learn, assist, or practice aesthetic or cosmetology procedures according to local regulations.

- All practical procedures are carried out in compliance with applicable safety standards, infection control protocols, and legal requirements.

By enrolling in SIB programs, all participants acknowledge their responsibility to understand and follow the laws and professional regulations applicable in their own jurisdiction.

In countries where Cosmetology is regulated by Government (e.g. U.S.A.), students need to obtain state license first before appearing for SIB exams. SIB qualification then becomes your advanced Cosmetology qualification.