How to Do a Patch Test for Hair Dye (and Color)
How to Do a Patch Test for Hair Dye (Color)
First of all, let’s get one thing straight… hair professionals use hair color which actually penetrates the cuticle and deposits artificial color molecules inside the hair strand. Hair dye stains the hair.
But patch tests are done for both. Just keep in mind that either one of these WILL leave a stained mark on your skin after the test time is complete.
What is a Patch Test for Hair Dye?
This step is often overlooked, but it is essential for avoiding allergic reactions that can happen when using hair dye.
In this blog post, we will talk about everything you need to know about conducting a patch test for hair dye, covering the 5 W’s and an H: What, Who, Where, When, Why, and How, and a few more.
What is a Patch Test for Hair Dye?
A patch test is a precautionary procedure performed before using hair dye to check for any allergic reaction to the product. The test involves applying a small amount of the dye to your skin, usually behind the ear or on the inner elbow -both of which are sensitive areas of skin- and waiting to see if any signs of irritation, redness, or swelling develop. We’ll get to the step by step below.
This simple test is crucial because hair dyes contain a variety of chemicals, including para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which is a common allergen.
By doing a patch test, you can identify any bad reactions before applying the dye to your entire head, thereby preventing more severe reactions that could lead to discomfort, damage to your scalp, or even more serious health issues such as anaphylactic shock.
Who Should do a Patch Test?
A patch test should be done on anyone who is planning to use hair dye, regardless of whether it’s their first time or if they’ve been coloring their hair for years.
Even if you’ve never had a reaction before, it doesn’t mean you won’t develop one now. People can develop sensitivities or allergies over time, so it’s crucial to test each new product.
This is particularly important for those with sensitive skin, a history of allergies, or conditions like eczema or dermatitis, as they may be more prone to reactions.
Where to Place the Patch Test for Hair Dye
The patch test should be placed on a small, discreet area of skin where the dye won’t be immediately noticed if a reaction occurs. The most common locations are behind the ear or on the inner elbow. These areas are chosen because the skin there is sensitive and resembles the skin on your scalp, providing a reliable indication of how your scalp might react to the dye. Additionally, these locations are easy to cover up if any irritation does occur. It’s important to apply the dye to clean, dry skin that is free from lotions, perfumes, or other products that could interfere with the test results.
When to do a Patch Test
A patch test should be done at least 24 to 48 hours before you plan to apply the hair dye.
A long time frame is recommended because it allows enough time for any delayed allergic reactions. Immediate reactions are rare, and most allergic responses will appear within this 24 to 48-hour window.
Rushing this process could mean risking a late-onset reaction, which might only become apparent after you’ve applied the dye to your entire scalp. Therefore, patience is key to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the patch test.
Why is it Important to do a Patch Test
Hair dye allergies can lead to serious skin conditions like contact dermatitis, which can cause severe itching, redness, swelling, and even burn the scalp, which could cause blistering.
In extreme cases, these reactions can spread beyond the application site, potentially leading to systemic effects such as difficulty breathing or anaphylactic shock, which requires emergency medical attention. Nobody want’s an ambulance to have to be called to the salon. That’s just a bad day!
A patch test helps you avoid these risks by giving you a clear indication of how your skin will react to the dye before it’s too late. This one little, tiny, small step and 24-48 hours can save you or your client from a lot of potential discomfort and harm.
5 Steps – How to do a Patch Test at Home
Performing a patch test at home is straightforward and can be done in five simple steps.
Step 1- First, mix a small amount of the hair dye according to the package instructions.
Step 2- Apply a small dab of the dye on a cotton swab.
Step 3- Place the swab on the chosen area of skin, such as behind your ear or on the inner elbow, and leave it uncovered so that the air can oxidize the product.
Step 4- Allow the dye to sit on your skin for at least 24 hours without washing it off. During this time, monitor the area for any signs of irritation, redness, or burning. If you have particularly sensitive skin, 48 hours would be better.
Step 5- After allotted set of hours, inspect the area closely. If there are no adverse reactions, you’re likely safe to proceed with dyeing your hair. However, if you notice any signs of a reaction, DO NOT use the dye and try a different kind of hair dye or color.
If you tested at home with a box dye, go to a professional to get a patch test done, this way you can see if their hair color product has the same reaction or not. (Because remember, hair dye and hair color are not the same thing!)
5 Other Precautions to Take When Performing a Patch Test
1- Avoid applying the test in areas where your skin is already irritated or broken, as this can skew the results.
2- Do not cover the test area with a bandage or clothing that could trap moisture and alter the reaction.
3- Make sure your skin is clean and dry before applying the dye to avoid contamination that could affect the test.
4- Keep the test area away from water, sweat, or other substances that might wash away the dye before the test period is complete.
5- If you experience a severe reaction during the test, wash the area immediately with mild soap and water, and seek medical attention if necessary.
What Kinds of Reactions to Look Out for?
During the patch test, it’s important to be aware of the types of reactions that might indicate an allergy or sensitivity to the hair dye. These reactions can range from mild to severe.
Mild Reactions
- Slight redness
- Itching
- A tingling sensation
Moderate Reactions
- Swelling
- A more pronounced rash
- Persistent itching
Severe Reactions –
Any of these WILL require IMMEDIATE medical attention,
- Burning sensation
- Blistering
- Intense pain
- Dizziness
- Difficulty breathing (call an ambulance)
- Swelling of the face or throat (call an ambulance)
If any of these occur immediately wash the product off.
What Does a Positive Patch Test Look Like?
A positive patch test means that you had an allergic reaction to the hair dye. It would look like any of the symptoms listed above, whether mild, moderate, or severe.
It’s crucial to respect the results of a positive patch test to prevent a full-blown allergic reaction, which could be much more severe if the dye is applied to a larger area like your scalp.
NEVER push through a symptom or have a client push through. It’s not worth it!
How do You Know if You’re Allergic?
Common symptoms include –
redness, swelling, itching, and the development of a rash or hives
These symptoms can occur within minutes of application or may develop over the course of several hours. Which is why you leave the patch test for hair dye on for a minimum of 24 hours.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s a clear sign that you have an allergy to one or more of the ingredients in the hair dye or color.
What to do if you Have an Allergic Reaction to the Patch Test
If you experience an allergic reaction during your patch test, the first step is to wash the area immediately with mild soap and water to remove as much of the dye as possible. Apply a soothing lotion or hydrocortisone cream to the affected area to help reduce itching and inflammation. If the reaction is mild, these steps might be sufficient. However, if the reaction is more severe, such as extensive swelling, blistering, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Avoid using the hair dye, and consider consulting with a dermatologist or allergist to determine what ingredient caused the reaction and explore alternative products.
If the Hair Dye Patch Test is Itchy, What Does That Mean?
Itchiness during a patch test is often one of the first signs of an allergic reaction. It indicates that your skin is reacting to an ingredient in the hair dye, which could lead to more severe symptoms if you proceed with using the product. Even if the itching is mild and doesn’t progress to other symptoms like redness or swelling, it’s a warning sign that your skin may not tolerate the dye well. It’s important to take even mild itching seriously and avoid using the dye on your hair. Instead, consider looking for hypoallergenic alternatives or consulting with a professional for guidance.
What Happens if I Don’t Have a Reaction?
If you don’t experience any reaction during the patch test, it’s a good indication that you are not allergic to the hair dye and can proceed with coloring your hair. However, it’s still essential to remain cautious. Even if the patch test is negative, it’s important to follow the instructions on the hair dye product carefully and to be mindful of any discomfort during the actual dyeing process. A negative patch test doesn’t guarantee that you won’t have any reaction at all, but it significantly reduces the risk of a severe allergic response.
Do Hair Dye Allergies Go Away?
Hair dye allergies typically do not go away on their own. Once your body has developed a sensitivity or allergy to certain chemicals in hair dye, such as PPD, the reaction may persist or even worsen with subsequent exposures. This means that every time you use a product containing the allergen, your body is likely to respond with an allergic reaction. In some cases, people may find that their reactions become more severe over time, leading to increased discomfort and potential health risks. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to hair dye, it’s important to avoid products containing the offending ingredient and seek alternative hair coloring methods, such as using natural dyes or semi-permanent colors that do not contain harsh chemicals.
When Do You Not Need to Do a Patch Test?
While a patch test is always recommended, there are certain situations where it may be deemed unnecessary. If you are using a product that you have used multiple times before without any issues, and the formulation has not changed, you may choose to skip the patch test. However, this comes with a risk, as allergies can develop suddenly even to products that were previously tolerated. Additionally, if you are using a temporary or natural hair color that contains no known allergens and you have never experienced reactions to similar products, you might opt to forego the patch test. It’s important to weigh the risks and benefits before deciding not to do a patch test, as the potential for an allergic reaction can be significant.
Is it 24 or 48 Hours? Why?
The recommended time for a patch test is 48 hours. This time frame is advised because allergic reactions can develop slowly, and some may not appear until after a full 48 hours have passed. A 24-hour test may not be long enough to detect delayed reactions, which can be just as severe as those that occur immediately. By waiting the full 48 hours, you allow your skin sufficient time to show any potential signs of an allergy, ensuring a more accurate assessment of your skin’s sensitivity to the hair dye. Rushing the process could result in an incomplete test, putting you at risk when applying the dye to your entire scalp.
What’s the Difference between Hair Dye and Hair Color? Do You Do a Patch Test the Same Way?
Hair dye and hair color are terms often used interchangeably, but they refer to slightly different products. Hair dye typically refers to a more permanent solution that penetrates the hair shaft and changes the color of your hair until it grows out or is cut off. Hair color, on the other hand, can refer to both permanent and semi-permanent products that may not last as long or may wash out over time. Regardless of the type, both hair dye and hair color can contain chemicals that may cause allergic reactions, so it’s important to perform a patch test in the same way for both. Whether the product is temporary, semi-permanent, or permanent, testing your skin’s reaction beforehand is essential for safety.
Is Hair Dye with PPD Safe? Why?
Hair dye containing para-phenylenediamine (PPD) is commonly used because it produces long-lasting, vibrant colors, particularly for darker shades. However, PPD is also a known allergen and can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. While PPD is considered safe for use in hair dye by regulatory agencies when used as directed, it’s important to recognize that “safe” does not mean risk-free. The safety of PPD depends on the individual’s sensitivity to the chemical. For those who are allergic, exposure can lead to serious symptoms like swelling, redness, blistering, and in extreme cases, anaphylaxis. This is why performing a patch test before using PPD-containing hair dye is critical to determining if the product is safe for your specific use.
FAQs to How to Do a Patch Test for Hair Dye (or Color)
Frequently asked questions about patch testing for hair dye often revolve around the process, duration, and importance of the test. Many people wonder if the patch test is necessary every time they dye their hair, even with products they have used before. Others ask about the correct time frame for leaving the patch test on and whether they need to repeat the test for different hair products. Questions also arise about what to do in case of a positive reaction, how to interpret mild itching, and whether certain brands or types of hair dye are less likely to cause allergic reactions. Understanding these aspects can help alleviate concerns and ensure a safe and effective hair dyeing experience.
How Do Hairdressers Do a Patch Test?
Professional hairdressers perform patch tests similarly to at-home methods, but with a few additional considerations. When a client comes in for a hair color service, the hairdresser will typically mix a small amount of the hair dye or colorant and apply it to a discrete area of the client’s skin, such as behind the ear or on the inner elbow. They will then advise the client to leave the test on for 48 hours and return if there are any adverse reactions. Hairdressers often keep records of patch tests for regular clients to track any changes in sensitivity. If a client has had a previous reaction, the hairdresser may suggest alternative products or recommend a different method of coloring, such as using ammonia-free or natural dyes.
What Happens if You Don’t Do a Patch Test?
If you skip the patch test and proceed with applying hair dye directly to your hair, you run the risk of experiencing an allergic reaction on your scalp and surrounding skin. Reactions can range from mild irritation and itching to severe redness, swelling, and blistering. In extreme cases, exposure to allergens like PPD can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Additionally, without a patch test, you won’t know how your skin will react until the dye is fully applied, which could result in an emergency situation. Skipping the patch test also increases the likelihood of causing long-term damage to your skin and scalp, making it more sensitive to future hair treatments.
How to Do a Patch Test for Other Hair Products
Patch testing is not just for hair dye; it’s equally important for other hair products that contain potential allergens, such as shampoos, conditioners, hair serums, and styling gels. To perform a patch test for these products, apply a small amount to a discreet area of your skin, such as behind the ear or on the inner elbow. As with hair dye, leave the product on the skin for 48 hours and monitor the area for any signs of irritation, redness, or swelling. This precaution is particularly important if the product contains ingredients like fragrances, preservatives, or sulfates, which are common irritants. Performing a patch test for hair care products ensures that they are safe for your skin and won’t cause adverse reactions.
Can You Shower After a Hair Dye Patch Test?
After performing a patch test, it is generally advised to avoid showering or washing the test area for the full 48-hour period. Water and soap can dilute the dye and potentially wash away the test spot, leading to inaccurate results. If you need to shower, try to keep the test area dry by covering it with a waterproof bandage or avoiding direct contact with water. Once the 48 hours have passed and you’ve confirmed that there is no reaction, you can shower as usual. However, if you notice any irritation or other signs of a reaction during the patch test period, refrain from exposing the area to water and seek advice from a healthcare professional if necessary.