If you’re booking a professional hair colour, a skin test (also called a patch test) is a simple step that helps keep you safe. It checks whether your skin may react to the colour products we’ll be using, and it’s an essential part of responsible, professional colouring.
At MAJOR Hairdressing, we require a skin test 48 hours before certain colour appointments because we take our duty of care very seriously. Allergic reactions to hair colour are rare, but they can be serious, and it’s not always predictable who will react.
If you’re planning a colour appointment and you’re not sure what you need to book, start here: explore our full range of professional colour services.
Why skin tests matter (and why salons insist on them)
A skin test helps identify potential sensitivity to ingredients found in hair colour products (most commonly oxidative/permanent colour systems). Even if you’ve coloured your hair before, allergies can develop over time.
A professional salon should never treat patch testing as “optional”. It’s part of safe practice, and if a salon doesn’t mention it when it’s required, that’s a BIG red flag.
Who needs a skin test before hair colour?
You’ll usually need a skin test if:
- You’re new to the salon
- You haven’t had a skin test or colour at the salon within the last 6 months
- You’re having a new colour brand/type applied
- You’ve previously had irritation, itching, or swelling after colouring
- You’ve had changes in health (see below)
If you’re unsure what you’re booked for (roots vs highlights vs balayage etc.), the best place to start is our Hair Colouring page which breaks down techniques and what to expect.
When do I need to have a skin test?
In most cases, you’ll need your skin test at least 48 hours before your colour appointment.
At MAJOR Hairdressing we use Wella, and their guidance requires a 48-hour window. That means you’ll pop in briefly ahead of your appointment, we apply a tiny amount of product to the skin, and you monitor the area.
How is a skin test carried out?
It’s quick and easy. Typically:
- You pop into one of our salons for a few minutes (no appointment required)
- We apply a small amount of the colour product to your skin (usually behind the ear)
- You leave it on and monitor the area for the full recommended time
- If there’s no reaction, you’re good to go ahead with your appointment
If you need to find your nearest location, you can check our salons here:
https://majorhairdressing.co.uk/salons/
I’ve had a hair colour before, do I still need a skin test?
Sometimes yes.
Even if you’ve coloured your hair many times, you can still develop an allergy later. Things that can increase the chance of sensitivity include:
- Pregnancy or post-pregnancy hormone changes
- New medication
- A recent virus or illness
- Changes in skin condition (eczema, dermatitis, broken skin)
- Switching colour type (for example, a different permanent colour range)
If you’re a regular colour client with us and nothing has changed, you may not need a new test, but if anything has changed, we’ll advise you properly.
What does a reaction look like?
If you react, it may show up as:
- Redness or rash
- Itching or burning
- Swelling
- Blistering or weeping skin
If you notice any of the above, don’t ignore it. Thoroughly wash any colour residue off, let us know straight away and don’t go ahead with colouring until you’ve had professional advice.
What happens if I have a reaction?
If you react to a patch test, it doesn’t automatically mean “you can never colour your hair again”, but it does mean we need to take a safer route.
Depending on your situation, we may recommend:
- A consultation to discuss options and history
- Alternative approaches (different techniques, product choices, or a longer-term plan)
- A referral to a medical professional if needed
If you’re planning a bigger change (balayage, highlights, colour correction), it’s worth reading through your options here first: https://majorhairdressing.co.uk/services/colouring/
Pair your skin test with a free colour consultation
If you’re having a new colour (or you want a change), pair your skin test with a consultation. It’s the easiest way to make sure you’re booked correctly and you’ll leave with a colour you genuinely love.
During a consultation we’ll talk through:
- Your hair history and current condition
- Your goal shade and maintenance level
- The best technique for your lifestyle (roots, foils, balayage, gloss/toner etc.)
- Timing and pricing expectations
You can also check pricing guidance here: https://majorhairdressing.co.uk/prices/
FAQ: Skin tests before hair colour
Ready for a colour you love (safely)?
A skin test is a tiny step that protects your health & safety, and it keeps your colour appointment stress-free.
Explore our colour services and book your next appointment.