Somatology salary in South Africa: how much can you really earn?
The average somatology salary in SA is estimated to be R11,000 per month. It is becoming a popular profession in the beauty and wellness industry, with a specialisation in the holistic treatment of the body and skin. Professionals in the field must understand anatomy and physiology to provide holistic care.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Key takeaways
- Somatologists in South Africa earn from R10,000 per month to over R13,000 per month.
- Qualified somatologists treat skin and body problems with opportunities to work in the beauty and health industries, including spas, salons, medical clinics, wellness centres, or resorts.
- Aspiring somatologists can earn diplomas at accredited institutions like the Durban University of Technology, Central University of Technology, and Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
How much do somatologists earn in South Africa?
The average somatologist's salary per month in South Africa is estimated at R11,000 per month (R132,000 per year), according to Glassdoor.
Entry-level positions make approximately R10,000 per month (R120,000 per year) while the highest paid professionals in the profession earn a salary of more than R13,000 per month (R156,000 per year).
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Is a somatologist a doctor?
Somatologists are not medical doctors and cannot diagnose or treat medical conditions. However, they work closely with medical professionals in the medical aesthetics field, including plastic surgeons and dermatologists. A somatologist's work focuses on the aesthetic aspects.
What jobs can a somatologist do?
A qualified somatologist can pursue several roles in the beauty, health, and wellness industry. They can do any or a combination of these roles in South Africa:
- Spa therapist: Offer treatments like massages, facials, body wraps, and hair removal using electrolysis or waxing.
- Aesthetician: Offers advanced skin treatments, including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser therapy, and other anti-ageing or skin-rejuvenation procedures.
- Wellness coach: Specialises in a holistic approach to improve overall health and well-being
- Medical aesthetician: Working alongside dermatologists or plastic surgeons to provide pre- and post-operative skincare
- Dermatology assistant: Assist with skin treatments and patient care in clinical settings
- Laser therapist: Uses laser treatments for hair removal, skin rejuvenation, and pigmentation issues
- Develop skincare and wellness products
- Sales consultant: Recommend and sell skincare and cosmetics retail products to clients
Source: Getty Images
Where can somatologists work?
Somatologists can work in various settings, including:
- Salons and spas: A classic path where they provide a range of services like facials, massages, manicures, pedicures, and waxing
- Health and wellness centres, including settings like health hydros and gyms
- Aesthetic and medical clinics where they work alongside plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and nurses
- Cruise ships and resorts: Can work on international cruise liners or in high-end resorts to provide wellness services to guests. You will require an ITEC qualification to practice internationally.
- Private practice: Somatologists looking to become their own boss choose to open businesses like a salon, private clinic, or mobile beauty service.
- Beauty schools: Teach somatology or cosmetology courses in beauty schools or cosmetic companies
Source: Getty Images
How to become a somatologist in South Africa
Somatology requirements include completing a recognised diploma at a university or a private college. The programmes cover subjects like body therapy, cosmetic science & nutrition, anatomy, physiology, and soma techniques & aesthetic sciences.
Students can further their education with an advanced diploma or a master's degree. Institutions offering recognised somatology programmes in SA include:
- The Cape Peninsula University of Technology: A 3-year Diploma in Somatology and a 1-year Advanced Diploma in Somatology at the Department of Wellness Sciences
- Durban University of Technology: A 3-year Diploma in Somatology and a 1-year Advanced Diploma in Somatology for those pursuing the Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP)
- Central University of Technology: A Diploma in Somatology within the Department of Health Sciences at their Bloemfontein Campus
- Newbridge Graduate Institute: Three-year Diploma in Somatology covering holistic beauty, aesthetics, and wellness treatments
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Somatology lacks a statutory register for professional practice
Somatologists do not have an official register under the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA) or the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). There have been discussions around the need for formal regulation due to the invasive nature of some treatments to ensure safety and public protection.
The professionals can be registered with the South African Association of Health and Skincare Professionals (SAAHSP). The NPO serves as the non-statutory professional body for the skin, body, and nail care industry.
Is somatology in demand in South Africa?
The demand for qualified somatologists is growing across South Africa as the beauty industry evolves. With a recognised diploma in the profession, you can work in various settings. Somatologist and lecturer Liesl Teixeira told the Sowetan in 2012 that the profession can be rewarding, but it takes time to make it.
The pros are that the sky is the limit, you can own your own business, and you can make lots of money... The cons are that the money and success doesn't happen quickly, meaning you have to work very hard and build a clientele.
Source: Getty Images
Conclusion
Somatology salaries in South Africa vary depending on where you are working, whether it is a high-end spa in Cape Town or a holistic clinic in Johannesburg. The profession's earning potential is likely to increase as you develop your skills and build a loyal clientele.
DISCLAIMER: This article is not sponsored by any third party. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on to make decisions of any kind. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility.
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