The Colour Allergy Test: What you need to know

We know you’re busy, and visiting the salon before your colour appointment can feel inconvenient. An allergy alert test only takes a few minutes, but it is an important part of providing your colour service safely.

Why do I need an allergy alert test?

Hair colour can cause an allergic reaction when it comes into contact with the skin.

Many permanent and some semi-permanent colours contain PPD, also known as paraphenylenediamine. This ingredient can cause irritation or an allergic reaction in some people.

A reaction can develop even if you have coloured your hair many times before without any problems. Your sensitivity can change over time.

When will I need a test?

You will need an allergy alert test if:

• You are new to Tribe and booking a colour service.
• You have not had a colour service at Tribe within the last six months.
• You have experienced a reaction since your last colour appointment.
• The products or colour being used have changed.
• Our team identifies another reason that a new test is needed during your consultation.

Tests completed at another salon cannot replace a Tribe allergy alert test because the products and procedures may be different.

We cannot waive this requirement or carry out the colour service without the required test.

How does the test work?

Visit either Tribe salon at least 48 hours before your colour appointment. You do not need to book, although we recommend arranging a consultation if you are new to Tribe or considering a colour change.

A member of our team will:

• Ask a few questions about your colour history and any previous reactions.
• Apply a small amount of the relevant colour product to your skin.
• Explain when to remove it and how to look after the test area.

The application takes only a few minutes. You will then need to monitor the area during the following 48 hours.

What should I look for?

Contact us immediately if you notice:

• Itching, stinging or burning.
• Redness or a change in the colour of your skin.
• Swelling, soreness or tightness.
• A rash or blisters.
• Any other discomfort around the test area.

Remove the product as instructed if you experience a reaction. We will not be able to carry out your planned colour service.

If your symptoms worsen, seek medical advice. Call 999 if you experience swelling of your lips, mouth, tongue or throat, or if you have difficulty breathing.

What happens if my test is clear?

If you have no reaction during the testing period, your colour appointment can usually go ahead as planned.

An allergy alert test is an important precaution, but it cannot guarantee that a reaction will not happen. Tell your stylist immediately if you feel any itching, burning, discomfort or swelling during your colour service.

What if I have reacted to hair colour before?

Please tell us before booking your appointment.

We will not apply a colour product that has caused a previous reaction or produced a reaction during your test. We may ask you to seek medical advice before considering any future colour service.

Products described as PPD-free can still contain other ingredients capable of causing a reaction, so they should not be treated as automatically safe.