Colourstart is a one-time only patch test you do at home, at your leisure, then share the results with us – giving us complete creative freedom to use any colour and any brand on your visits to us.
It is the gold standard of testing for an allergy to PPD which is the ingredient in hair colourants that some people are allergic too.
Colourstart is a small transfer type of patch test that you put on your arm and leave for 48 hours before removing. You apply the test yourself and take a photo to prove you have applied it. After you have removed it and left the skin for a further 48 hours, you take another photo to show there has been no reaction. It is really easy to do and Colourstart have a handy app which guides you through it.
An added bonus is that, using a Colourstart patch test creates you a hair colour passport, which unlocks unlimited hair colour choices and is valid with hair professionals worldwide. Keeping your passport valid simply involves answering some questions prior to every hair colour appointment via the Colourstart app or website. This means no more patch testing ever! It is a one-time purchase for a lifetime of hair colour safety.
A one-time only, Colourstart patch test is the only way to allow your stylist to have complete creative freedom to use any shades they need during your visit. For clients who have multiple shades in their hair, Colourstart really is the only practical solution to allergy testing for hair colour. If you use the ‘live’ in salon Allergy Alert Test method, each shade needs to be tested every 6 months and at separate visits. This is unworkable for the salon and clients alike, which is why Colourstart is the preferred testing method at The Vanilla Room.
FAQ’s
Why do I need an in-salon allergy alert test every 6 months or a one-time Colourstart at home patch test?
The Vanilla Room will only colour your hair following the colour manufacturers and our insurers instructions to protect you, our valued clients. We have won ‘Best colour salon in Essex’ several times alongside many other industry awards, which would not have been possible unless we were following the highest industry standards and best practice. Our team is trained to put your safety and the integrity of your hair first. We test because we care.
Can I shower with the Colourstart patch test on?
Yes, you can.
Can I moisturise whilst wearing the patch?
The patch test needs to be applied to clean dry skin to stick, so no moisturiser on the application spot. The test is only small so once you are wearing it, you can moisturise but just avoid the test site.
Do I have to remove it at exactly 48 hours?
No, as long as you go past 48 hours, you can take it off anytime that suits so no need to panic and clock watch. Colourstart will send you a removal reminder via SMS or email to jog your memory.
I need to take two photos, correct? When?
Take one straight after you have put the test on your arm. The easiest way to do this is via the Colourstart app on your phone. This sets off the timer. Take the second photo of your test site after 96 hours to confirm no reaction can be seen. Colourstart will send you a reminder to do this. Again, no need to panic if you are a few hours late, as long as your record the result sometime after 96 hours.
The whole Colourstart process takes 96 hours. When is the latest time before my visit that I can apply my test?
| If your colour appointment is on… | Last day to apply Colourstart test at home… |
| Monday | Wednesday |
| Tuesday | Thursday |
| Wednesday | Friday |
| Thursday | Saturday |
| Friday | Sunday |
| Saturday | Monday |
What are the questions that I need to answer on the Colourstart app or website every time I come to the salon?
Are you aged 16 years or older?
Are you pregnant or breast feeding?
Do you suspect or know you are allergic to PPD or hair colorant?
Do you have a black henna tattoo, or have you had an allergy to a black henna tattoo in the past?
Do you have redness, swelling or itchy skin (active dermatitis)?
Are you taking oral or topical steroids or other immunosuppressant medicines?
Has your hair professional recommended repeating the application of the Colourstart patch test?
Handy tips
- The easiest place to put the test is on the inside of your arm.
- If you are right-handed – apply to your left bicep, this leaves your right hand and arm free so you can apply the test and take the photo. If you are left-handed – apply to your right arm.
- Remove tab 1, press test to arm BEFORE removing tab 2.
