Why Do I Need a Skin Allergy Test Before a Hair Colour Appointment?

Why do I need a Skin Allergy Test - Francesco Hair Salon

on January 5, 2023

Pen Icon Colour - 5 January 2023

◴ Read time - 4 mins

Why Do I Need a Skin Allergy Test Before a Hair Colour Appointment?

At Francesco Hair Salon, the health and wellbeing of our clients is our priority, which is why our Skin Allergy Test Policy insists that if you’re a new client or you haven’t had a colour service with us in the last 6 months, you must undergo a Skin Allergy Test at least 48 hours before your colour appointment.

We know that life can be busy and a few quick trips to the salon within a week can seem a hassle, which is why we want to take the time to explain the importance of Skin Allergy Testing.

Why is a Skin Allergy Test Needed Before a Hair Colour?

Skin Allergy Tests help prevent the occurrence of allergic reactions to hair colour applications. We follow, exactly, the guidelines from Wella Professional (our manufacturers) whether you are a new or existing client. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to hair colour can include itching, hot or burning scalp, blood poisoning or at its most extreme, anaphylaxis.

To ensure that we are giving you the highest levels of customer care, we insist on Skin Allergy Tests for your comfort and protection.

Skin Allergy Test - Francesco Hair Salon

Why is a Skin Allergy Test Needed Before a Hair Colour?

Your health and wellbeing is our utmost priority. If we applied hair colour without performing an Allergy Test, it would compromise your safety and we’re not prepared to do that under any circumstances.

Reactions to hair dye are more common than you think, as explains Allergy UK’s Lindsey McManus…

Every week our helpline advisors speak to concerned callers who have experienced an allergic reaction or irritation after using hair colouring. We always recommend Skin Allergy testing before using hair dye products.

Do I Need a Skin Test if I’ve Already had a Colour Service Before?

If you have not had a colour service at our salon in the last six months you will need an Allergy Test. Our bodies are changing all the time and manufacturers only need to slightly adjust the ingredients and it could cause a reaction. Equally you can use the same hair dye without it being changed and then for no reason, become sensitised and suddenly react.

Why Did You Do Another Skin Allergy Test When My Current Skin Test Is In Date?

We may ask to perform a skin test sooner than you were expecting if we need to test with a different colour range; for example, if you want to change from your usual hair colour. We may also ask you to re-do your skin test if you’ve had Covid-19 in the last 12 months, as we do not yet know the full effects of the virus, but it could make you more susceptible to allergic reactions.

Why Do You Need Two Different Skin Allergy Tests On Different Days?

If your hair service requires two different hair-dye ranges, we need to test them separately so that we can clearly tell which range has caused the reaction and therefore avoid using that dye.

Why Do You Need Two Different Skin Allergy Tests On Different Days?

• Any new colour clients just need to pop into the salon a minimum of 48 hours before their appointment. A member of our team will complete the Allergy Test for you, it only takes 2 minutes so you don’t even need to book an appointment!

• The test is simple, we mix equal quantities of colour and peroxide together and apply to a cleaned area of skin on the inside of the elbow.

• This must then be left uncovered for 45 minutes, after which it can be removed using warm water only – shampoo, soap or wipes should not be used.

• It can take a little while before a reaction occurs, hence the 48 hour period prior to service to assess sensitivity.

• If you experience any reaction or discomfort you should contact your salon, otherwise continue with your colour service as usual.

How Do We Protect You?

All Francesco Hair Salon teams are highly trained to give you expert guidance when choosing your colour service. Colour Consultations are available free of charge at all our salons and ensure you have the opportunity to have an in-depth conversation with our team to discuss all your hair needs.

We are proud of our strict Skin Allergy Testing Policy. It shows that we care about our client’s well-being. Our clients are reassured that they are in expert hands and our teams are dedicated to looking after them.