How to check a therapist is qualified for the treatment you want
Check a therapist's qualifications, verify their registration, ask about training and contact their references before booking. Here's exactly what to verify.
A therapist's credentials matter far more than their salon décor or Instagram following. If someone is treating your skin—especially if you're dealing with acne, rosacea, eczema or any inflammatory condition—you need to know they've actually studied the science, not just watched a YouTube tutorial. The difference between a qualified therapist and an enthusiastic amateur can be the difference between results and a damaged skin barrier.
Start by asking what qualifications they hold. In South Africa, look for a National Diploma or Higher Certificate in Beauty Therapy, Aesthetics, or Skincare from a SAQA-accredited college. These typically involve 18 months to three years of structured study in anatomy, skin physiology, product chemistry and contraindications—the conditions under which a treatment should not be given. Ask them directly: what is your highest qualification and from which institution? A genuine therapist will answer without hesitation and often offer to show you the certificate.
If they specialise in treating a specific skin concern—acne, pigmentation, ageing—ask what additional training they've done beyond their base qualification. Some therapists complete short courses in laser therapy, chemical peels, or microneedling; others train in advanced facial mapping or corrective techniques. Request details of the training provider, duration and when it was completed. This is not nosiness; it's due diligence. A therapist who's invested in extra training usually speaks about it readily because they're proud of the investment.
Verify their registration and insurance
Ask if they're registered with a professional body relevant to their scope of practice. Depending on what they do, this might include the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) if they're performing any clinical or therapeutic skincare, or membership of associations like the South African Association of Beauty and Wellness Professionals. Request their registration or membership number and verify it yourself—don't just take their word. Most professional bodies maintain searchable registers on their websites. Check the register, confirm their name and number match, and note the date their registration is valid until.
Ask whether they carry professional indemnity insurance. This covers you if something goes wrong during treatment. A therapist without insurance is a red flag, particularly if they're using any device-based treatments or chemical products. Ask for proof of current insurance coverage; they should have a certificate on file.
Contact their previous clients and observe their caution
Request references from at least two or three clients with the same skin concern as yours. Call them. Ask not just whether they were happy, but whether the therapist explained what results were realistic, warned them about potential side effects, and stopped or adjusted the treatment if their skin reacted badly. A good therapist manages expectations and prioritises skin safety over profit.
Pay close attention to how the therapist talks about contraindications. If you mention you're on Roaccutane, pregnant, have active dermatitis or take photosensitising medication, do they immediately note this and explain why it affects what they can offer? Or do they brush past it? A qualified therapist knows which treatments are off-limits and will not proceed. They should ask detailed questions about your medical history, current medications and any previous bad reactions to products or treatments.
Watch how they handle the patch test or trial. Before committing to a full course of facials or any active treatment, insist on a patch test or single trial appointment. A responsible therapist welcomes this; they want to see how your skin responds before you invest time and money. If they pressure you to book a package immediately, that's a warning sign.
Finding a qualified therapist takes more legwork than booking the first available slot, but your skin will thank you. On Strove, verified therapists display their qualifications and client reviews, which gives you a head start—but always ask the verification questions above directly. A few minutes of homework now prevents weeks of skin regret later.
Common questions
- What qualifications should a skin therapist have?
- Look for a National Diploma or Higher Certificate in Beauty Therapy, Aesthetics, or Skincare from a SAQA-accredited institution. Ask them directly what their highest qualification is and request to see the certificate. Additional training in specific treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy is a plus.
- How do I verify a therapist's registration?
- Ask for their registration or membership number with their professional body (such as the HPCSA if applicable). Search the relevant register yourself online to confirm their name, number and current registration status. Do not rely on them telling you they are registered.
- What should I ask previous clients?
- Contact at least two or three references with the same skin concern as yours. Ask whether the therapist explained realistic results, warned about side effects, and adjusted treatment if the client's skin reacted badly. This tells you whether they prioritise skin safety over upselling.
- Why does professional indemnity insurance matter?
- This insurance protects you if something goes wrong during treatment. A therapist without it—especially one offering device-based or chemical treatments—is taking risks with your skin. Ask for proof of current coverage; they should have a certificate on file.
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