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.
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 specialized 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 specialized massage techniques, such as reflexology, aromatherapy and manual lymph drainage.
Satisfying Aspects
- being able to do thorough assessments and give relevant treatments
- helping cure skin problems
- being able to help clients
- compliments from satisfied clients
- the opportunity of self employment
Demanding aspects
- starting early or working late if clients require it
- dealing with difficult clients
- at times physically and emotionally tiring
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
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory school subjects: None
Recommended school subjects: Life Sciences, Physical Sciences
Students are selected on merit and have to undergo a selection test and a personal interview.
Training
Degree / Diploma: B.Tech or N.Dip: Somatology - CPUT, CUT, DUT, TUT, UJ.
Employer
- beauty salons
- cosmetic companies
- cruise ships
- electrolysis clinics
- gymnasiums
- 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
Contact
S A Association of Health and Skincare Professionals
P O Box 318
Pinegowrie, 2123
Tel: (011) 275-0516 Fax: (011) 513-3085
www.saahsp.co.za