Beautician Jobs in South Africa: What You Should Know

Do you have a talent for applying make-up or hair styling? Have you considered a job as a beautician? People all across South Africa are paying top-dollar for a wide variety of beauty related services like skin care, manicures and electrolysis. If you’re interested in a career in this industry, then you should consider the following facts about beautician jobs.

First of all, a beautician can refer to several different beauty related services. Here are a few different specializations that you may be interested in:

1. Hair stylist

A hair stylist is someone who cuts hair and offers other beauty related services that are hair related. These might include coloring, extensions, and straightening. Hair stylists also have a talent for determining what the most flattering hairstyles and cuts are for their clients. Hair stylists may spend an extra amount of time preparing clients for special events, such as weddings.

2. Nail technician

A nail technician is a beautician who specializes in nail care. This can be manicures, pedicures, applying acrylic nails, and even performing hand and foot massages. Nail technicians are some of the most in-demand beauticians in South Africa today.

3. Make Up Artist

A make up artist is trained in the application of various types of cosmetics, like foundation, blush, mascara and blush. These beauticians are trained in various lighting and cosmetic application techniques in order to create a specific style or “look.” Make up artists may work with actors, musicians, models, celebrities or people who just want to improve their facial appearance.

4. Electrolysis Professional

These beauticians specialize in removing hair from the face and body with an electronic device. Electrolysis professionals must receive very specific training in order to acquire a license to practice in South Africa.

Beautician Training

Most beauticians will seek training from a cosmetology school which offers a 1, 2 or 3-year program where you can learn different aspects of the profession. For example, you may learn about skin care and make up in your first year and Hairdresser jobs for hair styling in your second year. During your third year you may choose to specialize in hair styling and obtain even more detailed training.

Many of these schools offer diplomas and various certification services. Also, in most cases, you are eligible for financial aid for your cosmetology study in South Africa. Keep in mind that it’s important to receive your training from a school that has a good training program in the beautician specialization that you choose.

Beautician Job Opportunities and Salary

There are jobs all over South Africa for beauticians. For example, spas and health clubs usually have full-time employment opportunities for nail technicians and hair stylists. If you’re a make up artist, then you may be employed by a commercial shopping center or you may choose to work on a contractual basis with photographers and entertainment companies. There’s a nearly endless supply of companies in South Africa that need qualified beauticians.

According to Payscale.com, the average beautician in South Africa earns about R80,000. This number can vary depending on your employer, experience and city that you work in. Currently, Cape Town and Johannesburg are the most popular destinations in South Africa for beauticians.