Skin testing
The importance of skin testing prior to hair colouring
It is important that all our clients undergo a simple colour sensitivity test at least 48 hours prior to their first time colour application, or if they have not had colour with us for more than 6 months. Skin testing is here to protect you. It only takes a few minutes. Read on to find out why this is an essential part of our hair colouring process.
Why is it so important to undergo skin testing before hair colouring?
Even if you have been dying your hair for years and have never had a reaction before, we cannot do a colour service without a skin test. Some people suffer reactions all of a sudden. You can develop a sensitivity at any time in your life.
What does it mean to be hypersensitive?
Hypersensitivity can be quite common.It is an over-reaction of the immune system to what is known as an ‘invading’ hapten, such as PPD. Haptens have the ability to provoke an immune response that brings about such dramatic changes in the body’s tissues (known as an allergic reaction or allergy). In extremely severe cases, reactions can be life-threatening and these allergic reactions can develop at any time.
Why do we recommend skin testing?
At Hair In The City we have a DUTY OF CARE to make sure that you are protected in these circumstances. The best way of ensuring that you are allergy free when it comes to hair colouring is to have test done a minimum of 48 hours before the application of hair colour. Here you can have a specific skin test done with the specific colour range we will have agreed on. This is without a doubt the safest and most efficient way of detecting any allergies that may cause damage to your skin.
Even if you have been colouring your hair for years and have never had a reaction before, we highly recommend a skin test. Some people suffer reactions all of a sudden. You can develop a sensitivity at any time in your life.
If you are taking medication this may vary your reaction to hair colour. Some medication suppress your sensitivity, while others may make you hypersensitive.
Why does the skin test have to be 48 hours before hair dye application?
In some cases, the most severe version of hypersensitivity is a cell mediated reaction which can take 48 hours to occur.
Skin testing for the application of bleach
We will still perform a skin test for bleach as you may need a toner during your service and a skin test is required for this.
There is no skin test we can perform for the bleach itself and each individual has a different sensitivity or tolerance to bleaching. Different factors such as skin type (dry, oily etc), room temperature and temperature of the person’s scalp all play a part in how bleach works. It is completely normal to feel and itching or tingling sensation, even a little heat when the bleach is applied to your hair and scalp, so do not be alarmed. If you feel any MAJOR discomfort during the bleaching process, please inform your stylist immediately.