Health and Beauty Therapist

Today’s beauty and health therapist is a highly qualified professional, constantly adapting to a dynamic and fast-moving profession. The health and beauty therapist uses a battery of electronic equipment and highly specialized techniques for both face and body. There are also strict rules for hygiene and clinical procedures that must be adhered to in the interests of health.

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The tasks of health and beauty therapists include the following: assessment and treatment of skin and figure problems; slimming treatments in conjunction with a recommended doctor’s diet; cosmetic sales; application of specialised make-up techniques; permanent and temporary removal of unwanted facial and body hair; manicuring; pedicuring; tinting of eyelashes and eyebrows; and the application of a variety of electrical equipment and specialised massage techniques, such as reflexology, aromatherapy and manual lymph drainage.

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Personal Requirements

• pleasant personality
• enthusiasm, drive and creativity
• empathy with people
• ability to communicate well
• courteous and professional
• willing to take the responsibility for decisions
• goal-orientated

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How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution has its own entry requirements.

Students are selected on merit and have to undergo a selection test and a personal interview.

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What to Study

Degree / Diploma:  B.Tech or N.Dip: Somatology - CPUT, CUT, DUT, TUT, UJ.

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Employment

• beauty salons
• cosmetic companies
• cruise ships
• electrolysis clinics
• gymnasia
• health hydros and spas
• theatres
• television and film companies and studios
• advertising and modelling agencies
• psychiatric clinics and old-age homes
• self-employment, with enough experience and capital, can start own business

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Further Information

S A Association of Health and Skincare Professionals
Savannah Office Park
Cycad Building
Corner 9th & Rugby Street
Weltevreden Park, 1707
Tel: (011) 675-6518
www.saahsp.co.za

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Getting Started

• try to get a part-time or holiday job in a beauty salon
• speak to health and beauty therapists about this type of career and if possible, spend a few days observing them at work

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