What Does It Take to Build a Career in Beauty Therapy?
- Nedine Stroebel
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
We spoke to Anra Faber, a Health and Skincare Therapist with more than 28 years of experience in the beauty industry, to find out what it really takes to build a career in beauty therapy.
I have always wanted to pursue a career in beauty therapy. Looking back on my time in the industry, I can honestly say that it has been one of the most exciting, rewarding and constantly changing careers I could have chosen.
My journey into the beauty industry
My journey began in 1998 when I qualified as a Health and Skincare Therapist at Isa Carstens in Stellenbosch.
If there’s one lesson, I learned early in my career, it’s this: Isa Carstens said to look the picture, act the picture and be the picture of someone worthy of the beauty industry.
Those words have stayed with me throughout my career.
To me, that means looking the part, acting with pride and conducting yourself in a way that others can look up to. Professionalism isn't only about how you dress. It is about how you treat your clients and colleagues, how seriously you take your skills and the standard you set for yourself.
Being a successful beauty therapist takes more than simply having a qualification.
It takes passion, hard work, professionalism, empathy and a genuine love for working with people.
Don't take shortcuts
If you're considering a career in beauty therapy is to take your training seriously. Be willing to soak up as much knowledge as you can, don't take shortcuts, and practise until you master your practical skills.
A career full of opportunities
My career has taken me through many different experiences.
After qualifying, I spent nine months working at a spa in the English countryside before returning to South Africa, where I worked for a Dutch couple in Tokai, Cape Town.
I later completed a degree in Hospitality Management at the Central University of Technology in Bloemfontein while continuing to work as a therapist part-time.
Teaching gradually became another important part of my career.
I lectured part-time in Hospitality Management for the Damelin Group and later joined Camelot International, eventually managing their branch for several years.
Then, in 2011, I joined Qualitas Career Academy.
That decision opened another chapter in my career — one that has allowed me to combine my industry experience with my passion for education.
Beauty therapy is about people
For me, beauty therapy has always been about people — a good therapist needs empathy, patience, dedication and integrity, with the opportunity to make a difference in a client’s day, building their confidence and supporting their wellbeing.
Developing therapists, not just qualifications
Teaching beauty therapy is about much more than helping students earn a qualification. It is about preparing them for the realities of the industry.
A successful beauty therapist needs technical skills, but they also need to understand client care, communication, professionalism, personal presentation and the importance of continued development.
One of the most rewarding parts of my role is being able to share my knowledge and experience with young, upcoming therapists and ignite a passion in them to keep learning and growing in this fast-paced industry.
And I don't only teach from theory.
I still enjoy working with clients myself after all these years, which allows me to lead by example and stay connected to the realities of the industry.
What does it really take to become a beauty therapist?
If you are considering a career in beauty therapy, ask yourself whether you genuinely enjoy working with people. It isn't only about skincare, nails, makeup or treatments; it's about earning someone's trust, understanding their needs and creating an experience that makes them feel valued.
A career worth investing in
If you are passionate about beauty and considering turning that passion into a career, my advice is simple: work hard, keep learning, stay dedicated, believe in your abilities — and never sell yourself short.
At Qualitas Career Academy in Bloemfontein, your beauty therapy journey starts with practical skills and can grow into confidence, experience and a career you can be proud of.
Discover our Beauty & Wellness courses or book your free campus tour and take the first step towards your future.
