South Africa’s beauty industry is bracing for one of its most profitable periods of the year, with salons across the country already reporting full appointment books as the festive season gathers momentum.
Demand has risen steadily throughout December, and operators expect the busiest trading days to fall between 15 and 23 December, a period when families travel, attend celebrations and prepare for year-end events.
The beauty sector remains a significant economic contributor, with more than 14,000 salons operating nationwide, most of them small and independently run.
A report by the Department of Higher Education and Training shows that the sector plays a significant role in economic growth, having contributed about R24.8 billion to GDP in 2015 and supporting over 185,000 jobs, many in informal and small-business environments.
Beyond employment, the industry also helps generate income for lower-income households and contributes roughly R8.75 billion in tax revenue each year.
In Pretoria Central, Surprise Nukeri, founder of Surprii Hair, said her salon has experienced a sharp increase in demand.
Located in Navy House, Nukeri specialises in wigs, customisation and installations — services that become particularly sought after as clients look for new looks before holidays or celebrations.
“Bookings started early this month, and from the 15th onwards I’m almost fully booked,” she said. “Clients want clean hairlines, fresh wigs and personalised installations. It is definitely our busiest period.”
Braiding and barber services have also seen a steady rise in demand, with clients seeking everything from intricate free-hand braids and neat wig lines to sharp haircuts and clean fades. These services require time and skilled labour, which contributes to their popularity during festive periods when appearance plays a key role in celebrations.
Tembisa-based township barber Josh Bamba, owner of JoshBarbers, said the festive mood is clearly visible in his shop.
“You can feel December in the air,” Bamba said. “People want to look sharp for the holidays, so the chairs rarely stay empty. December helps us make up for the slower periods earlier in the year.”
Braiding expert Michelle Nkosi from Matsulu added that specialised braiding styles remain highly requested.
“Clients book early for free-hand braids, straight-back and straight-up styles, and clean wig lines,” she said.
“Installations are growing fast, so I’m learning that skill because it’s one of the services driving growth in the industry.”
Make-up artists are experiencing similar festive pressure. Lorraine, owner of Glamourholic Beautyhub in Arcadia, said her make-up bookings have surged.
“Clients want full make-up looks for events and family gatherings, so my diary fills up quickly,” she said. “Most people book weeks in advance because they don’t want to miss out.”
Nail technicians are also benefiting from the season. Mpho Mudau, from NailsByMpho in Thohoyandou, said her appointments are almost fully booked.
“Nail services are in high demand, especially for weddings and year-end events,” she said. “December keeps us busy because clients want everything perfect before the celebrations.”
The nail industry remains one of South Africa’s fastest-growing beauty segments, valued at USD 175.7 million in 2023, with expectations that it will nearly double by 2030. The sector’s growth is reflected in salons where nail technicians fill their December calendars well in advance.
For many beauty SMEs, the festive period between 15 and 23 December plays a critical role in annual revenue. Strong trading helps businesses settle expenses, pay staff bonuses and stock up before the quieter months ahead.
Despite economic pressures and higher input prices, operators remain optimistic, saying festive demand continues to support the sector and provides a much-needed boost before the new year.
azwi@vutivibusiness.co.za
