Do I need patch test with a new salon? | Abingdon | Didcot | Wantage | Oxfordshire

There are a number of reasons for a patch test. Firstly patch tests are essential for your safety, secondly they protect the salon against any reaction and any issues this may cause and thirdly it’s an opportunity for your salon to meet you and to discuss your needs in advance of an appointment by way of a consultation.

Allergic reactions to hair dye can range from mild irritation to severe swelling and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Irrespective whether you have used hair colour for years without an issue or if this is your first time, sensitivities can develop suddenly and can even be brought about by hormonal changes, new medication or just as time passes and so do our bodies. The patch test provides peace of mind for both you and your salon.

In practice this means that any new salon that you visit will necessitate the commitment from you to visit for the benefit of a patch test irrespective as to whether your last colour was most recent or not. Salons won’t be to establish if the patch test was delivered correctly, if it was delivered at all, when it was delivered and which products were used.

Insurance and product suppliers will insist on a salon undertaking patch tests to ensure best practice and compliance. This removes any liability in the unexpected event of a reaction and most salons will offer a strict policy to ensure that this translates to clients to avoid invalidating their own insurance. In the simplest form, salons would assume full responsibility in the event that you were to react to hair colour on their premises.