How to Patch Test Correctly (A Step-by-Step Guide for Salons)

Safety • Legal protection • Client trust

A clear, consistent patch-testing routine protects your clients and your salon. It shows professionalism, reduces risk of adverse reactions, and creates documented evidence that you informed and safeguarded the client - all of which build trust and reduce liability. Below is a short, salon-ready checklist you can adopt today, followed by a link to our FREE DOWNLOAD page where you can find Consent & Indemnity Forms, Material Safety Data Sheets and Guide Sheets.

Why patch test? 🤔 ➡️ 💖

• Protects clients - catches allergic or delayed reactions before the full service.

• Protects your salon - documented tests + signed consent show you informed the client and followed protocol.

• Builds trust - clients feel safer and more likely to rebook.

Quick Patch-Test Checklist ✅ (at a glance)

1. Offer a patch test at booking (should be performed at least 24 - 48 hours before service). ⏰

2. Document: date, time, product name + lot number, tech initials. 📝

3. Test site: inner elbow, temple, behind the ear, or inner wrist. 👂🦵

4. Apply the product(s) used in service (same mix & timing). 🧪

5. Look for reactions at 15-30 minutes, then at 24 - 48 hours to check for immediate or delayed reactions. 👀

6. If reaction occurs (redness, itching, swelling, blisters, etc): do NOT proceed - document & advise next steps. 🚫

7. File signed consent form in the client profile. 🔒

What to patch test 🧾

• Lash Lifting solution(s)

• Brow Lamination solution(s)

• ReGen

• Adhesives / Lash Glue

• Tints / Dyes mixed with Oxydant

• Any aftercare serum you’ll apply in-salon

Step-by-step: The Simple Procedure 🛠️

• Pre-test check

  • Ask about medical history (allergies, asthma, eczema, meds, recent eye procedures, pregnancy, etc).

  • Explain the test and expected timing.

• Prep & label

  • Use single-use applicators and small sterile containers. Note brand and lot/batch #.

• Clean the area

  • Wipe the chosen spot with gentle soap or alcohol wipe; let dry. 🧼

• Apply product

  • Apply a small pea-sized amount; mimic salon timing (leave on the same length of time you would during service). ⏱️

• Initial read

  • Check at 15–30 minutes. Instruct client to check again at 24 and 48 hours. 📲

• 24 - 48 hour check-in:

  • Contact client or have them come in and look for any reaction.

  • No reaction: record “Cleared for service” with date & initials. ✅

  • Any reaction: document details, do not proceed, recommend medical review if needed. 📝

• File & flag

• Save results in the client profile. This ensures any staff sees the status immediately. 🔎

• *Bonus Tip

  • Some salons keep an extra sachet pack or tube of each product used for patch tests in a separate storage unit in their salon specifically used for patch tests, so as not to unnecessarily open and oxidize sachets and product containers used for full services. 💖

Why 24 - 48 hours? ⏳

• Some allergic reactions are delayed. Waiting 24 - 48 hours gives you the best chance to catch both immediate and delayed hypersensitivity reactions - it’s standard practice in our industry.

Protect Yourself ⚖️

• Signed consent + recorded lot numbers = important evidence if a complaint or claim occurs.

• Single - use applicators and clean technique reduce contamination risk and emphasize professionalism.

• Keep records for your salon’s retention period (follow local regs/policies).

Quick desk reference - tape this up! 📎

1. Offer test at booking ✅

2. Book 24 - 48 hrs before service ✅

3. Use single - use applicators & record lot# ✅

4. Check at 15 - 30 min & 24 - 48 hr ✅

5. Client signs consent & record filed ✅

Head to our FREE DOWNLOADS page to gather Indemnity & Consent forms, Material Safety Data Sheets and Instruction Guides below ⬇️ ⬇️