Skin Test Policy

This information applies if you are having a permanent colour or lightening service, including colour or lightening products for highlights, applied to the hair on your head or ANY other area of your body (eg, eyebrows, eyelashes, beards etc).

While the vast majority of people who have their hair coloured experience no problems, a small number of people have the potential to develop an allergy to some hair dye ingredients. The use of hair dyes is strictly regulated and their ingredients are approved for use in hair colour in the UK, the EU and across the world. However, an allergy can develop over time so it is possible that you could have an allergic reaction even if you have not had one in the past. As a professionally run hair and beauty salon and our commitment to exceptional customer care, we put your safety first.

Allergy alert tests must be done at least 48 hours in advance of your colour.

We will also carry out relevant industry tests for all new guests or existing guests who want a different chemical service, for example, colouring, bleaching/lightening. This will test the condition of your hair, the compatibility of previous products or services and confirm what the final result of the service will be. A test cutting and strand test may be suggested as this is the most effective way of finding out what the end result will look and feel like without risking your hair.

We will ask you to answer some questions and sign a consultation form, allergy alert and industry tests record card when you next visit the salon to confirm that you have answered them to the best of your knowledge. Your stylist or therapist will also sign the record and confirm whether an allergy alert test or other industry tests will be needed before the service can go ahead. We will ask new guests for your consent to keep your colour records for six years for your safety.

We will always carry out an allergy alert test for new guests aged 16* or over, even if you have had your hair coloured before. We will check when returning guests last had an allergy alert test. If it was more than six months ago, we will arrange for another test to be done.

*Sorry, manufacturers advise that hair colourants (including highlights) cannot be used on anyone aged under 16, so we can not provide colour services for this age group

One hour after the skin test has been performed, wipe the area with a slightly dampened piece of cotton wool. Do not then get the area wet with any form of shampoo or soap for the next 48 hours.

If you have a reaction to hair colour or to an allergy alert test, you must seek medical advice.