I think it’s safe to say that we probably all feel the same about patch tests - They’re a bore! Because with work, family, friends, and endless to-do lists, it’s challenging enough to find the time for our hair colour appointments, let alone make an additional salon trip for patch tests. Especially when the majority of us have probably never had an allergic reaction in our lives. I get it. I really do. We all want to look fabulous and to make that happen as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Life is busy! The most common allergen, paraphenylenediamine or PPD, is found in over 99% of permanent hair dyes. From cases of rashes and hives to hospitalisation and even fatalities (a poor 19-year-old Parisian woman had a near-fatal reaction in only November last year). These reactions often occur when the sufferer least expects them – Did you know, for example, that we can all develop new allergies at any stage of our lives?
Hair colour formulations are tweaked constantly to modernise them and make them kinder to our hair, the downside being that a product that doesn't irritate you now may - frustratingly - do so in the future. Safety, therefore, should be at the forefront of all our minds when colouring hair both at home and in salon. You may or may not be aware that it has been a legal requirement for all hairdressers to carry out patch test requirements prior to colour services. Reputable salons will never guarantee your appointment until that test has been done, and this is reflected in their cancellation policy.
So let’s face it, while patch tests are far from convenient, they are essential and continue to save lives worldwide on a daily basis. Perhaps, just perhaps, next time you are asked to book in for one, swap your irritation for reassurance that you are using a reputable salon that is fulfilling its legal requirements and puts your safety first. Patch tests should be booked at least 48 hours before the colour appointment.
A pea-sized quantity of the colour formula will be applied to the back of your ear or nape of your neck. If you subsequently experience a reaction of any kind, notify the salon immediately so that you can be advised on the correct procedure. If you are a new client or an existing client past 6 months, a skin test is required 48 hours prior to your appointment.
It’s important to be honest about what your hair has been through previously. When your stylist inquires about your hair colour appointments or whether you have coloured your hair at home, we’re not just giving you a hard time; we’re trying to understand what to expect and set up realistic expectations for you. Virgin hair and colored hair will react differently and yield different results, so it’s crucial to adhere to any patch test requirements we may have. Be patient with your stylist, as healthy hair should always be the #1 priority! Don’t forget to review our cancellation policy to avoid any inconvenience.
Appointments that are cancelled at short notice or clients who fail to attend their scheduled hair colour appointments disrupt the entire salon diary. We kindly request that you adhere to our cancellation policy by providing us with 48 hours notice for any changes or cancellations. In the event of multiple no shows or late cancellations, you may be removed from our booking system without the opportunity to rebook. Additionally, please remember to comply with our patch test requirements prior to your appointment.
All payments for hair colour appointments are preferred to be CARD ONLY. Please note our cancellation policy and ensure you meet the patch test requirements prior to your appointment.
We want every client to be 100% happy with their hair. If you have an issue or complaint regarding your hair colour appointments, you must notify us immediately. We will consult with you to find the appropriate solution. We promise that if your complaint meets the correct criteria, we will offer you free hairdressing until your issue has been resolved. To take advantage of this, we will ask you to return within two weeks of the original appointment time, allowing us to provide you with a haircut or colour free of charge, as long as the service is the same as the original appointment. Please note that if you have simply changed your mind or if you return after the second week, normal charges may apply. Additionally, if you have altered or attempted to alter a hair colour or cut yourself, or if a third party has touched your hair, this guarantee becomes null and void. Remember to also check our cancellation policy and patch test requirements to ensure a smooth experience.
We do offer hair services for your children; however, if they are not receiving a service and only you are, we kindly ask you to leave them at home. For their own safety, as you are aware, there are sharp scissors, hot straighteners, and plenty of wires around. Additionally, please be aware of our cancellation policy and the patch test requirements for hair colour appointments.
Good or bad, big or small, feedback is crucial for small businesses as it helps us grow. Your thoughts on our cancellation policy, hair colour appointments, or patch test requirements are especially valuable to us. If you feel we are missing something or that we could improve, please send us an email. Alternatively, if we've done something amazing, we would appreciate it if you could leave a review on Facebook or Google.
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