Skin Testing – Why It’s Important
The Importance of Hair Colour Skin Tests at Wiles Studios in Northampton
One question we are regularly asked is 'do I need a skin test before my hair colour appointment at Wiles Studios in Northampton?' In this article, we look at the importance of skin testing and explain why it's important all clients follow our skin testing policy. We also highly recommend as many clients sign up for the Colourstart skin test option, as highlighted below. This will tell you precisely if and when YOU need a new skin test.
What Is A Skin Test? Also known as an Allergy Alert Test, the skin test checks for allergic reactions or sensitivities to the hair colour products we use. There are strict guidelines from manufacturers, insurers, industry bodies and the MHRA around using hair colour. So it is essential you have this test for your safety and also for the peace of mind of our stylists.
Why Do I Need A Skin Test? Reactions to hair colour can be serious and even life-threatening so we will test for all types of colour and product types including temporary colours, permanent shades and toners.
Who Needs A Skin Test? Everyone who has a hair colour will need a skin test or Allergy Alert Test. It is unlikely you will need a skin test before every hair colour appointment. However, the following people will need an up-to-date skin test:
- Clients who are new to hair colour
- Clients who have not had their hair coloured in 6 months+
- Clients who have coloured their hair at home or elsewhere in-between visits to Wiles Studios
- Clients who have had Covid-19 or a vaccination to Covid-19
- Clients who decide to change to a different hair colour
- Clients who are on new medication or have changed their medication
- Clients undergoing hormonal or health changes.
When Should I Do My Skin Test? There are two options. The in-salon skin test must be carried out 48 hours before your hair colour appointment. The Colourstart Passport option must be carried out 5 days before your hair colour appointment.
OPTION 1: We offer free Allergy Alert Tests (also known as skin testing) in our salon. You will need to make an appointment to attend the salon at least 48 hours before your hair colour service. We will apply a small amount of colour formula behind your ear and leave it for 48 hours. Should you experience any signs of irritation, reddening, swelling, inflammation or itching, please contact us. If you develop symptoms that make you unwell, please contact a medical professional.
OPTION 2: The Colourstart test costs £15 and can either be bought from the Wiles Studios online shop HERE or via Colourstart HERE (you will need to register for an account first). If you are on a mobile phone, you can also download the Colourstart app on Google Play here and from the Apple App store here. When you buy a Colourstart test from our online shop, we will be available to offer any advice you may need with regard to carrying out that test. We will not be able to offer this advice if you buy the test via Colourstart direct.
Once you have registered you will be asked a few screening questions, Wiles Studios is registered with Colourstart so will be able to see your results once you have shared them online. Before every colour appointment, simply answer a few questions on the Colourstart app which will then let you know whether you require a further skin test.
If you have any questions with regards to skin testing or your hair colour appointment, please do not hesitate to ask - and thank you for your understanding.
The Wiles Studios Team.
