Hair Colour Patch Test

Service Description

WHY DO I NEED A PATCH TEST? Your safety is incredibly important to us. Hair colour products can cause an allergic reaction, even if you have coloured your hair before without any problems. Patch testing helps identify a potential sensitivity before your colour service and forms part of our salon safety procedures, manufacturer guidance and insurance requirements. A valid patch test must be completed at least 48 hours before your colour appointment. If the required patch test hasn't been completed, we won't be able to carry out your colour service. WHAT IS A PATCH TEST? We apply a small amount of the relevant colour product to your skin, usually behind your ear. You'll need to monitor the area carefully for 48 hours. If you experience redness, itching, burning, swelling, irritation or any other reaction, please contact us and do not proceed with your colour appointment. A patch test is an important precaution but cannot guarantee that an allergic reaction will not occur. HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE? You must be 16 or over to receive a hair colour service at The Hairdresser. We may ask for proof of age. I'VE HAD A PATCH TEST AT ANOTHER SALON – DO I NEED ANOTHER? Yes. Different salons use different brands, formulations and colour products, so a patch test carried out elsewhere cannot be used for your colour service with us. I'VE COLOURED MY HAIR BEFORE – DO I STILL NEED ONE? Yes, whenever a patch test is required under our current salon procedures. Sensitivities and allergies can develop over time, so having used hair colour previously without a reaction doesn't mean you cannot develop one in the future. WHEN WILL I NEED ANOTHER PATCH TEST? We may require a new patch test if enough time has passed since your previous test, your circumstances have changed, a different product is being used or manufacturer guidance requires one. If you're unsure whether your patch test is still valid, please contact us before your appointment. WHAT IF I HAVE A REACTION? Please let us know as soon as possible. We won't be able to proceed with a colour service using the product that caused the reaction. If you already have an appointment booked, we'll advise you on the next steps in accordance with our booking and cancellation policy.