Beautician

Beautician in South Africa: prices and how to find one

Updated 31 October 2026

A beautician in South Africa usually charges per treatment: a facial in Cape Town is listed from R 250 to about R 1,870, a spray tan from R 180 to R 950, and professional makeup per face from R 550 to R 1,500. These are approximate ranges taken from sellers' websites in October 2026. The quickest way to see current rates in your city is to describe the job on BlaBlaPrice.

Qualifications and licences

The standard for hairdressing, cosmetology and beauty work asks for at least two years of practical, relevant experience and skill in the national unit standards. A beauty therapist advert also asks for an NQF Level 4 (matric) qualification, a valid South African ID and basic computer literacy, so ask to see certificates and experience letters. A salon that opens needs a municipal business licence, which requires proof of payment and a fire inspection.

Season and schedule

October 2026 is late spring. Summer runs from December to February and winter from June to August, so a salon that wants a beautician for the summer months should agree the rota before December.

How it is priced and where it is done

Prices are quoted per treatment or per face, so ask what one quote covers and how long a session lasts. Starting a home-based beauty business can cost from around R 10,000 to R 50,000, according to one cost guide, while a fully equipped hair salon in rented space can start at R 100,000. Name your city in the request (Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town or Gqeberha) so that sellers near you can reply.

What to put in your request

Name the treatments you need, such as facials, makeup, nails, massage or fitness coaching, and say whether you want a one-off session or a regular slot. Add the type of venue (salon, spa, gym or home visits), the working days and hours, and any education or experience you need.

On BlaBlaPrice the request is free for buyers. You describe the job in your own words in a chat, and the AI asks for missing details, looks through sellers' websites and price lists in South Africa, and shows the prices and businesses it finds. Beauty sellers registered on the platform receive your request and reply in the chat with their offer, terms and availability. Your contact details stay hidden, and you decide with whom to exchange them. You can also send the request link to salons and beauticians you already know. Start at the request field on the home page, read how it works, or see the nail technician category.