South Africa

South Africa has no formal requirements or qualifications to get started in the beauty industry, except for massage therapists. Practitioners can offer beauty services without the need for any license. They, however, can become nationally recognised by taking courses recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority.

Regulated Beauty Service in South Africa:

• Massage Therapist

Non-Regulated Beauty Services in South Africa:

• Makeup Artist
• Nail Technician
• Waxing Technician
• Facialist
• Spray Tanning Technician
• Lash Technician
• Barber
• Hairstylist

Regulated Beauty Service in South Africa

Massage Therapist

Chapter 2 Section 15 of the Allied Health Professions Act 1982 states that massage therapists must be registered practitioners in South Africa. The council may require proof of training and experience along with other requirements from the practitioners. They will then review the qualifications and determine if the applicants are qualified for the licensing exam.

Section 16A of the same chapter also indicates that training providers must be approved by any relevant board in the country or the council.

More requirement information is provided here:

https://ahpcsa.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/The-AHP-Act_63-of-1982_as-amended.pdf

Non-Regulated Beauty Services in South Africa

Makeup Artist

Being a makeup artist in South Africa doesn’t need certifications or licenses. Skilled individuals can serve clients and enjoy earning in the industry.

Nail Technician / Waxing Technician / Facialist / Spray Tanning Technician / Lash Technician / Barber / Hairstylist

Beauty therapists like nail techs, hairstylists, facialists and barbers are not regulated in the country. They are not required to secure a license to practise as professionals in beauty.