Colour Responsible Policy
We use testing and screening to checking suitability for colouring products we provide. Our preferred method for this is the Colourstart Passport.
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Skin Testing FAQs
How much is Colourstart and where do I buy it?
Signing up and ongoing screening on the passport is free. The Colourstart test is £15. You can purchase your test directly from Colourstart here. Alternatively, you can purchase your Colourstart test in salon.
Why do I need a skin test?
Reactions to hair colour can be serious and even life threatening. There are strict guidelines from manufacturers, insurers, industry bodies and the MHRA around using hair colour. We endeavour to give you peace of mind so that you can safely enjoy your visits to the salon.
Why is Colourstart Collections Hair Club's preferred method?
- Colourstart has been registered and approved by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency).
- You are in control of your passport and therefore your testing and screening.
- It is confidential - we only get to see your result if you choose to share it with us.
- You can use your Colourstart passport for screening for any colour services in any salon. For example, if you have brow colouring service you can use the same test.
- If you are travelling and you need to use a different salon, you can share your passport result with any salon.
You can get your service done with little notice, you do not have to wait 48 hours for a skin test.
My stylist said Colourstart is not suitable for me – why is that?
If you are pregnant or have active dermatitis you cannot test with Colourstart. You should speak to your stylist about an AAT (Allergy Alert Test) in the salon.
Patch tests will need to be mixed with peroxide, applied on your forearm, and left uncovered for 45 minutes. Please be aware, we’ll only be able to test one colour brand at a time, which may mean multiple trips to the salon.
Why don't you test me every time?
We use screening to monitor the need for testing you before every service. If nothing has changed since your last test and we have a valid record (typically within the last 6 months) it will be OK to proceed with your service.
I have been colouring my hair for years, why do I need a test?
One of the triggers for sensitivity and reactions to hair colour is exposure over time, therefore it is important we keep monitoring for your safety. Collections Hair Club is committed to your safety and use only the best products and methods for hair colouring.
What if I don't want to sign up?
You can choose to opt out of the colour passport. You will have to abide by our in-salon AAT (Allergy Alert Test) policy and visit the salon every 6 months for testing and screening questions.
This service is free, but must be kept up-to-date. The AAT in-salon will take approximately 5-10 mins. Patch tests will need to be mixed with peroxide, applied on your forearm, and left uncovered for 45 minutes. Please be aware, we’ll only be able to test one colour brand at a time, which may mean multiple trips to the salon. These appointments can be booked in advanced but you must allow 48 hours for the result to be obtained. You will then be asked to notify the salon of any reaction and we will only proceed with the relevant hair or beauty service if there has been no reaction. If you have a reaction to hair colour or to an allergy alert test, you must seek medical advice.
All customers who have not had a hair colour application in our salon in the preceding 6 months must comply with our AAT policy. Please bear in mind if you would like to change your colour or we are switching brands we will need to re-test you for every change.