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The cost of beauty

We’re more than happy to indulge when taking care of our looks, but how much is really being spent? We unveil the figures behind some of the most popular beauty treatments.   

Grooming costs for women can be a bit expensive. According to various market research reports and studies, the global beauty industry is currently valued at more than $500 billion worldwide. It is known for directing aggressive advertising towards women, convincing them to indulge in various beauty monthly treatments and create high-maintenance beauty routines. Before we break down the cost, it’s important to note that while it may seem expensive and time-consuming initially, these beauty treatments can lead to better results and longer-lasting effects, reducing the need for constant touch-ups and adjustments over time. Here’s the cost of some of the most common beauty treatments that are worth it in the long run.  

Face  

Facial Treatments
An investment in your long-term skin health and appearance, regular facials will help keep your skin firm and looking its best as well as provide numerous health benefits. While there is a wide range of facial treatments (with varying prices) the costs below refer to the most basic facial treatments. These often involve gentle exfoliation, extractions, a facial massage, mask application and serums and moisturisers. On average, prices range R300 – R800.  

Eyebrow Waxing and Shaping
There’s no denying the face-framing power of groomed brows. Having them shaped regularly is a must for a polished look. In recent years, there have been a plethora of new brow treatments flooding the market (think lamination and microblading). However, the most common methods most prefer still seem to be waxing and threading, which range from R80 – R200 a session.  

Fillers  
Highly effective at reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, fillers can brighten up dull complexions by adding hydration back into dehydrated skin layers. This makes skin appear more radiant and glowing overall. Fillers per session can vary from R2 000 – R5 000 (dependent on areas being filled as well as the brand).  

Lashes  
Say goodbye to mascara (and hello to more time in the morning). With eyelash extensions, you can wake up with long, fluttering, gorgeous lashes. Eyelash extensions vary from R600 – R1 000 monthly for a full set.   

Hair 

Great hair has the ability to boost self-confidence while also enhancing one’s appearance. This is why taking care of it by going for regular trims or cuts, treatments and glossy colour is crucial in maintaining the health of your strands and scalp.

Colour (a basic single-process colour)  

  • Monthly: R600 – R1 000 

Cut and Blow

  • Monthly: R250 – R750  

Glossy or Conditioning Treatments 

  • Monthly: R400 – R800 per treatment  

Wig, Weaves and Braiding
The prices of wigs and weaves can vary widely depending on factors such as the hair type (Brazilian, Peruvian, synthetic etc.), length, density, brand, quality as well as where it’s purchased. With so many factors to consider, finding estimated costs can be quite challenging. Prices of synthetic hair can range from R500 to R1 500, while human hair wigs and weaves tend to be more expensive – with prices typically starting at around R1 000 and going up to several thousand rands. When it comes to braids, twists and faux locs, the pricing is based on a combination of the labour involved (thick vs thin strands) as well as the fibre used. In total, you can pay anywhere from R500 to over R1 000.  

Nails  

From enhancing nail health to improving your appearance, getting regular manicures and pedicures can help you feel more confident and attractive. Below are the approximate costs for basic nail treatments. However, there may be extra fees for specialised treatments such as paraffin wax dips, gel, acrylic, or nail art. As a base price, manicures can range from R250 to R450 monthly, while pedicures range from R300 to R500.  

Body  

When it comes to bodily hair care, waxing and hair laser removal are the most common treatments considered. While the former does result in hair growing back finer, the latter (while initially more expensive) offers long-lasting results which will save you money in the long run.  

Hair Laser Removal  

  • Monthly: R650 – R3 000 per session (depending on the area being treated)  

Waxing 

  • Monthly: R200 – R400 per session (depending on the area being treated)  

Take note
The true cost of beauty treatments is complex as it depends on various factors such as location, the reputation of the salon, specific treatment choices, the frequency of visits and individual preferences. 

 

Text courtesy of Balanced Life magazine
By: Leila Petersen
Photographs: Getty  

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