Somatology is a career about the body

Liesl Teixeira, a somatologist and lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology, decided to become a somatologist because she likes working with people and making people feel good.

Basics

A somatologist used to be known as a beauty therapist but the new title encompasses more skills than just aesthetics.

The salary of a somatologist varies from area to area; it is dependent on the therapist's sales abilities and other skills. Somatologists earn a basic salary plus commission.

Teixeira says you need to market yourself and canvass for clients when you first start out. "Be an entrepreneur," she says.

Job description

Somatologists treat and prevent disorders involving the skin and body and are concerned with the overall health and well-being of their clients.

They recommend and carry out slimming treatments, sell cosmetics, do specialised make-up techniques, manicures and pedicures, tints and remove unwanted facial and body hair, permanently or temporarily.

A somatologist uses a variety of electrical equipment and does specialised massage such as reflexology, aromatherapy, manual lymph drainage and Swedish massage.

Pros and cons

"The pros are that the sky is the limit, you can own your own business and you can makes lots of money," says Teixeira.

"The cons are that the money and success doesn't happen quickly, meaning you have to work very hard and build a clientele. Also the long hours are another con."

Required studies or experience

There are many places where you can study somatology. Teixeira recommends a four-year course.

The technikon offers two courses, the National Diploma in somatology and the BTech degree in somatology. The diploma is three years long, whereas the degree is four years.

Technikons also offer prospective students the opportunity of working in the industry while studying through their experiential training.

The subjects students need to have in school are either anatomy and physiology, or biology, or science. Tertiary institutions will also look at maths when you apply.

Personality types

If you are someone who can listen, have drive and ambition, patience, and can focus, then you have the personality for this job.

"You need to be comfortable around people and touching them," says Teixeira

An average day

On an average day you have to come in before the clients to prepare. You do the treatments the whole day and have to accommodate your clients as best as possible.

This can mean that you will work during your lunch hour or even late into the evening. Being flexible is important especially if you will be working from 7am to 7pm.

Some salons work on a rotation system which will give you a little more freedom.

The best thing about the job

"The fact that you can help people, you make people look and feel good about themselves. When you look good, you feel better. This is a feel-good profession," smiles Teixeira.

The worst thing about the job

"The human factor - difficult clients and late clients.

"The job can also be a bit emotionally draining because your clients tend to dump all their problems on your shoulders. So by the end of the day you have taken on other people's burdens."

Source: Sowetan