Hairdresser or Beautician CV example

A Hairdresser or Beautician CV for South African employers: what to write, the duties and skills to list, a cover letter and tips.

Updated 29 October 2026 · By Tumelo Vincent Tau

1. An example profile

A short profile at the top of your CV says who you are and what work you want. Change it to fit your own experience:

Creative hairdresser with four years of salon experience in braiding, relaxers, colour and cuts. I build loyal clients and keep my station clean and professional.

2. Duties to list

Under each job like this in your work experience, list three to five of the duties you really did:

Wash, cut, style and colour hair
Advise clients on treatments and products
Book appointments and keep client records
Keep tools and work stations clean and hygienic
Sell salon products
Stay up to date with new styles and trends

3. Skills and certificates

Skills employers look for in this job:

Hair styling
Customer service
Hygiene
Creativity

Also list, if you have them:

Hairdressing or beauty qualification or trade test
Services you are skilled at (braids, colour, cuts, nails, make-up)
Photos of your work (a short portfolio link or pictures)
Product brands you know

4. Tips for Hairdresser or Beautician jobs

List exactly what you are good at: braids, weaves, relaxers, colour, cuts, nails, make-up.
A few clear photos of your work help a lot. Attach them, or add a link to your work page.
Mention returning clients or regulars: it shows that people trust your work.

5. An example cover letter

Send a short cover letter with your CV, naming the post and the reference number from the advert:

Dear Hiring Manager

Re: Application for the post of Hairdresser or Beautician

I would like to apply for the post of Hairdresser or Beautician, as advertised. Please find my CV attached.

For four years I worked at a busy salon doing braids, weaves, relaxers and colour, and many of my clients book with me every month. I keep my station clean, I stay up to date with new styles, and I am happy to show photos of my work.

I am available for an interview at any time and can be reached on 072 123 4567. Thank you for considering my application.

Yours faithfully
Thabo Mokoena

More help: how to write a cover letter, a CV with no work experience and job interview tips.