Allergy alert tests
The law around testing your skin before a colour treatment has changed. You probably know them as a skin test, but they’re now referred to as allergy alert tests.
Here at the nook we have an allergy alert testing policy to keep you and us safe.
Our policy
You will require an allergy alert test if:
It is the first time you have visited us for a colour.
You have had your hair coloured with us before, but have not been allergy alert tested, by us, in the last 12 months (sorry, we can’t accept tests from another salon!)
We may have to retest you, even if you’ve been tested by us in the last 12 months if:
You have had any permanent or semi-permanent tattoos (including henna) or makeup since your last test.
You have started any new medication or changed existing medication since your last test.
You have become pregnant or are undergoing IVF.
We appreciate some of this is quite personal. You do not have to give us a reason, but please do inform us if you need a new allergy alert test before your appointment, and we will ensure one is carried out.
Allergy alert tests must be carried out at least 48 hours before your appointment.
What is an allergy alert test?
When you visit us for an allergy alert test, we will do the following:
Mix a small amount of the colour we will eventually be using on your hair, and put it on your skin in a discrete spot behind your ear.
We will then ask you to complete a short form and sign to say you’ve received your allergy alert test.
You can then go about your day, but please leave the colour in place for at least 4 hours.
After 4 hours you can wipe the colour away with some tissue or a damp cloth.
If during those 4 hours you experience any burning, itching, swelling or redness of the skin around where we put the colour, please wash it off with cold water immediately and get in contact with your stylist.
An allergic reaction can occur up to 48 hours after the colour is applied, so please be aware and contact your stylist immediately if you experience any symptoms.