Beauty Events in Africa

Africa's beauty event scene is growing quickly, with dynamic shows in South Africa, Nigeria and Egypt that reflect the continent's love of hair, nails and skincare. These events are full of energy, with competitions, education and brands catering for every hair texture and skin tone.

Johannesburg is the busiest city on the calendar. The Africa International Hair and Beauty Fair at Sandton Convention Centre usually runs each October and welcomes the public, with hair and nail competitions and education. Professional Beauty and Salon International Johannesburg is the trade event for salon, spa and clinic teams each September, held at The Galleria in Sandton. In West Africa, Beauty West Africa brings conferences and a trade floor to Lagos each November, and Egy Beauty Africa in New Cairo opens the trade season each April. South Africa is also home to the Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Conference and Awards for the spa and skincare community, and the online Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Awards.

Every beauty event in Africa is listed below with dates, venues and who can attend, so you can find your show and plan the trip.

Travelling across Africa

Johannesburg, Lagos and Cairo are the main gateways for the continent's beauty events, each with a large international airport. In Johannesburg, the Gautrain links O.R. Tambo International Airport with Sandton station, a short walk from Sandton Convention Centre and The Galleria. Lagos events are served by Murtala Muhammed International Airport, and the Egypt International Exhibition Center is in New Cairo, east of the city.

Where to stay

Sandton has many hotels within walking distance of its venues, which makes it the easiest base for Johannesburg shows. In Lagos, Victoria Island and Ikoyi are popular with business visitors.

Best seasons and tips

• Spring in South Africa, from September to October, is the peak season for Johannesburg events.
• Check who can attend. The Africa International Hair and Beauty Fair welcomes the public, while Professional Beauty and Salon International Johannesburg is trade only.
• Arrange local transport in advance, as most visitors travel by car or rideshare between venues and hotels.