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15 Best Beauty Therapy Courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

beauty therapy courses in South Africa
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South Africa is Africa’s largest market for cosmetics and personal care products. In 2018, the sector recorded close to US$3.2bn in revenue.

Household spending on personal care products is expected to grow by 25% over the next five years – Invest SA.

The stat above leads credence to the promising career anyone who chooses to study beauty therapy courses in South Africa could have.

This article will tell you all about beauty therapy courses in South Africa, their fee structure, and the best places you can study beauty therapy courses in South Africa.

Table of contents

Benefits of Studying a Beauty Therapy Course

If you’re into all things beauty, studying our course is a great way to turn your interest into an amazing career. You’ll earn impressive cosmetic skills that will take your talents to the next level. Completing our Beauty Therapy Course will give you the chance to:

#1. Create Happiness With Your Skills 

A beauty therapist takes pride in making people feel confident and beautiful. With this course, you’ll learn valuable cosmetic techniques that you can use to make your clients happy.

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#2. Become a Boss

Do you dream of owning a business someday? The cosmetics industry is a great choice for you. By studying this course you’ll gain expert knowledge on how to start and run a beauty spa. 

#3. Expand Your Skill Set

Do you know what the best part of being a beauty therapist is? It’s impossible to get bored.  There are so many areas of expertise. You’ll learn how to provide various treatments, from head to toe.

#4. Earn Credibility in the Industry

After you complete our Beauty Therapy Course, you’ll receive a certificate. You can use it to prove to your employers and clients that you have the skills and education to do the job.

Skills You’ll Gain from Our Beauty Therapy Course

You’ll gain extensive knowledge of many aspects of the beauty industry. Our Beauty Therapy Course has nine subjects that’ll sharpen your skills. This course is the perfect starting point for a successful career. You’ll learn:

#1. Great Skin Care Practices

Gain top skills from our Facial Skin Care Theory and Techniques subject. You’ll learn how to cater your techniques to suit various skin disorders and other client needs.

#2. Professional Salon Management

Learn how to manage a salon and perfect your customer service skills. This course helps you understand your role as a therapist and teaches you how to run a successful salon.

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#3. Effective Consultation Methods

Master world-class beauty consultation techniques that’ll make clients feel confident in your abilities. You’ll learn how to communicate and carry yourself in a professional environment

Is Studying a Beauty Therapy Course for me?

The world of beauty is competitive and fast-paced. You’ll need to be flexible and a fast thinker. Not to worry, this course will teach you how to navigate this ever-changing industry. A career in Beauty Therapy is a good choice if you: 

  • Are creative 
  • Crave versatility 
  • Enjoy working with people 
  • Love the idea of giving luxurious spa treatments 
  • Have an interest in the beauty and self-care industry 

Career Opportunities If you study beauty therapy courses in South Africa

Besides being a beauty therapist, there are tons of career options available to you. With our help, you’ll be able to step into the field with confidence and amazing skills. After you complete our Beauty Therapy Course you can become a:

  • Salon Owner 
  • Beauty Consultant 
  • Skincare Specialist
  • Massage Therapist 
  • Lash and Brow Technician 

How do I Become a Beauty Therapist in South Africa?

There are no formal requirements needed to become a beauty therapist in South Africa. It would give you a competitive edge if you complete a course with us. Our well-rounded Beauty Therapy Course will help you thrive in the industry. 

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15 Best Beauty Therapy Courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

Here are the best beauty therapy courses in South Africa you can take:

#1. Beauty Therapy Advanced Course

R36 876.00

This course covers both the business and beauty aspects that a beauty therapist must understand. You will learn about different beauty therapy techniques like facial skincare, full body massage, makeup application, and nail care.

You will also learn about which business aspects to consider when working in a salon, such as business-oriented language, professional skills applicable to a salon environment, entrepreneurship, and business and office administration.

Course Details

#2. Massage Techniques Proficiency Course

R8 190.00

In the Massage Techniques Proficiency Course, You will learn about the different skin types, skin tones, and skin problems that may arise. You will learn how to assess clients and apply treatments accordingly. This course also covers business subjects like customer service, networking, entrepreneurship, and business English.

Course Details

#3. Facial Skin Care Skills Course

R8 715.00

You will learn the characteristics of, and treatment for, each skin type and how to determine a client’s skin tone. You will also learn how to identify skin problems. This course covers networking for business, assessing clients, hygiene practices, and professional communication.

Course Details

#4. Massage Techniques Skills Course

R8 715.00

You will learn about the different skin types, skin tones, and skin problems that may arise. You will learn how to assess clients and apply treatments accordingly. This course also covers business subjects like customer service, networking, entrepreneurship, and business English.

Course Details

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#5. Makeup Application Proficiency Course

R8 116.50

You will learn about different makeup techniques like contouring; and applying eye shadow, foundation, and lipstick. You will also learn how to match clients’ skin types and hair color with the correct makeup and about brow shaping and lashes.

The course covers business subjects like entrepreneurship, networking, customer service, and English for business.

Course Details

#.6 Salon Management Advanced Course

R24 832.50

This course focuses on the administration and management of a beauty salon. You will learn about managing personnel, how to provide excellent customer service, and how to communicate professionally with staff and clients.

You will also learn the basics of financial management, human resource management, and labor relations.

Course Details

#.7 Nail Care Proficiency Course

R12 232.50

You will learn about the anatomy and physiology of hands and feet, as well as the nail structure. You will learn about nail techniques like UV gel nails and nail decorating. This course also covers business subjects like networking, business English, customer service, and entrepreneurship.

Course Details

#8. Beauty Therapy Short Course

R6 100.50

This short course in beauty therapy covers anatomy and physiology. You will learn about the different parts and components of the human body, how to operate professionally in a beauty salon environment, and how to use proper business English when dealing with clients and co-workers.

Course Details

#9. Hair Removal Proficiency Course

R8 998.50

You will learn about the different hair removal techniques, waxing, threading, hair removal creams, and laser hair removal. You will also learn about the history of hair removal. This course covers business-related subjects like English for business, customer service, networking, and entrepreneurship.

Course Details

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#10 Makeup Application Skills Course

R10 836.00

This course covers makeup techniques, makeup tools, brow shaping, and lashes. You will learn how to assess a client and how to choose eye shadows, lipsticks, foundations, and concealers. You will also learn about contouring and makeup for specific ages and occasions. This course also covers networking for business, hygiene, and professional communication.

Course Details

#11. National Certificate in Hairdressing

R52 000

Students who enroll to study this beauty therapy course in South Africa will learn the following

  • Client Consultation, including in-depth hair and scalp analysis
  • Shampooing and Conditioning
  • Perming, Relaxing, and Neutralising Hair
  • Colouring Hair
  • Pin Curls and Finger Waves
  • Ladies Hair Cutting and Styling
  • Men’s Cutting, Styling and Barbering
  • Hair Extensions and Braiding, including Bonding, Weaving and Dreadlocks
  • Hairdressing Competition Techniques
  • Magazine and Photoshoot Training
  • Product Training
  • Health and Safety in the Salon
  • Business studies
  • Professional Conduct

Course Details

#12. Professional Make-up Artistry

R52 000

Students who enroll to study this beauty therapy course in South Africa will learn the following

  • Day Make-up
  • Evening Make-up
  • Bridal Make-up
  • Photographic Make-up
  • Corrective Make-up
  • American
  • French
  • Japanese
  • Nail Technology
  • Manicure
  • Pedicure
  • Eyelash Extensions

Course Details

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#13. Hair and Beauty

R90 000

This course will teach students all they need to know about hair and beauty using the modules below:

  • Client Consultation, including in-depth hair and scalp analysis.
  • Shampooing and Conditioning
  • Perming, Relaxing, and Neutralising Hair
  • Colouring Hair
  • Pin Curls and Finger Waves
  • Ladies Hair Cutting and Styling
  • Men’s Cutting, Styling and Barbering
  • Hair Extensions and Braiding, including Bonding, Weaving and Dreadlocks
  • Hairdressing Competition Techniques
  • Magazine and Photoshoot Training
  • Product Training

Course Details

#14. National Certificate in Beauty & Nail Technology

R57 500

If you enroll in the National Certificate in Beauty and Nail Technology, you will be taught using the following modules:

  • Facials
  • Waxing
  • Manicure
  • Pedicure
  • Tinting & Shaping
  • Fundamentals
  • Health & Safety
  • Department
  • Consultation
  • Business Management
  • Swedish Massage
  • Indian Head Massage
  • Hot Stone Massage
  • Stress Massage
  • Infant Massage
  • Lomi-Lomi / Hawaiian Massage
  • Nail technology
  • Eyelash Extensions
  • Make-up

#15. Beauty Therapy Comprehensive Expert Certificate

The Beauty Therapy Comprehensive Expert Certificate course provides students with extensive knowledge of the beauty care industry today.

You will learn:

  • Introduction to Business English
  • Professional Salon Skills
  • Introduction to Make-Up Application 1
  • Introduction to Make-Up Application 2
  • Facial Skin Care Theory
  • Facial Skin Care Techniques
  • Lash and Brow
  • Nail Technician: Manicure and Pedicure
  • UV Gel Nails and Decoration

Read Also: Higher Certificate courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

What is the Average Beauty Therapy Course Cost in South Africa?

Beauty therapy course fee in South Africa vary depending on the course and the institution, but here are some examples:

  • Beauty Therapy Institute: The Beauty Therapist Certificate costs R73,300, with a discounted fee of R65,970. 
  • Optimi College: The Beauty Therapy Advanced Course costs R36,876, with a deposit of R2,500 and monthly instalments of R1,227.71. 
  • Cosmetology Beauty College: The Nail Technology, Make Up Artistry, and Eyelash Extensions courses cost R4,000, R4,000, and R2,500, respectively. 
  • Face to Face: The Skin Care & Eye Therapy course costs R7,000. 
  • College on Hills: The National Certificate course has a registration fee of R350

FAQs: beauty therapy courses in South Africa

What are the basic requirements for beauty therapy courses in South Africa?


Matric: A Matric certificate or equivalent is typically required.


Age: Most courses have a minimum age requirement, usually 18 years old.


Health Certificate: A health certificate may be necessary to ensure suitability for practical training.

What are the different types of beauty therapy courses available in South Africa?


Short Courses: These focus on specific skills like manicures, pedicures, waxing, or makeup artistry.


Diploma Courses: These provide a broader range of skills, including skin care, body treatments, and advanced therapies.


Degree Courses: These are more academic and focus on the theoretical aspects of beauty therapy.

How long do beauty therapy courses take to complete?


Short Courses: Can range from a few days to a few weeks.


Diploma Courses: Typically take 6 months to 1 year.


Degree Courses: Usually take 3-4 years.

What are the top beauty schools in South Africa?


Lisof: A renowned institution offering various beauty courses.


SA College of Applied Esthetics: Offers a range of accredited beauty courses.


The Beauty School: Provides comprehensive training in beauty therapy.


Sorbet Academy: Offers professional beauty training.

What are the career opportunities for beauty therapy graduates in South Africa?


Self-Employment: Starting your beauty salon or spa.


Salons and Spas: Working as a beauty therapist in established salons or spas.


Cruise Ships and Hotels: Working on cruise ships or in luxury hotels.


Retail: Working as a beauty consultant or product demonstrator.


Teaching: Becoming a beauty therapy instructor.

Conclusion

There are many beauty therapy courses in South Africa with varying costs and different schools offering them.

These beauty therapy schools in South Africa are scattered all over Mzanzi and are fully equipped to give you the best experience in whatever you want to learn in the beauty industry.

So, decide on what you want to learn in the beauty space find the school that best suits your needs, and offers the best price for the course and get started. Goodluck.

References

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