GENERATIONS HAIR SALON - PATCH TEST POLICY

Effective: August 2026 | Annual review - next due August 2027

Fuggle Generations Pty Ltd | ABN 71 698 910 691 | Shop 7, 1-11 Alison Road, Wyong NSW 2259

This policy applies to all chemical colour services provided by Generations Hair Salon (Fuggle Generations Pty Ltd, ABN 71 698 910 691), at Shop 7, 1-11 Alison Road, Wyong NSW 2259.

1. Why We Patch Test

Patch testing is a clinical safety requirement for all hair colour and chemical services. Hair dye products contain chemical compounds - including para-phenylenediamine (PPD) - that can cause allergic reactions ranging from mild skin irritation to severe systemic allergic response (anaphylaxis).

A patch test establishes whether you have a sensitivity or allergy to the products we use. It is required regardless of whether you have used hair colour before, whether at this salon or elsewhere.

2. Who Must Have a Patch Test

A patch test is strongly recommended for:

  • All new clients booking a colour, toning, balayage, or chemical treatment service

  • Existing clients who have not had a colour service at Generations Hair Salon in the previous 12 months

  • Clients where the colour product, brand, or formulation has changed since their last service

  • Clients who have experienced any of the following since their last colour service:

  • A change in health condition, medication, or medical treatment

  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or recent childbirth

  • Any allergic reaction, skin sensitivity, or change in skin condition

  • Use of a home colour or toning product

Even if you have had your hair coloured many times before - a patch test is still strongly recommended. Allergies can develop at any time with no prior warning.

3. Patch Test Timing

A patch test is recommended to be performed a minimum of 48 hours before your colour appointment. You must attend the salon for a patch test at least 2 days before your service. Patch tests are complimentary.

4. How the Patch Test is Performed

A small amount of the colour product to be used is applied to a small area of skin, typically behind the ear or on the inner arm.

The test area must not be washed, covered, or interfered with for the full 48-hour period.

You should monitor the test area for redness, itching, swelling, burning, or blistering.

5. Reading Your Patch Test Result

No reaction:

If you experience no symptoms at the test site after 48 hours, your patch test is clear and your colour service can proceed.

Mild reaction:

If you experience mild irritation, redness, or itching, contact us immediately. Do not attend your appointment. We will discuss options, which may include a different product formulation and a repeat test.

Severe reaction:

If you experience significant swelling, blistering, or difficulty breathing, call 000 or attend your nearest emergency department immediately. Contact us to cancel your appointment.

6. If You Cannot Attend for a Patch Test

If you are unable to attend for a patch test at least 48 hours before your appointment, we may not proceed with your colour service and your appointment may need to be rescheduled. If insufficient cancellation notice has been given under our Booking Terms, your deposit may be forfeited.

7. Client Acknowledgement

By booking a colour service, you confirm that:

  • You understand the purpose and requirement of patch testing

  • You will attend for a patch test at least 48 hours before your colour service

  • You will monitor the test area and report any reaction to us promptly

  • You will inform your stylist of any changes to your health, medications, or skin condition

  • You accept responsibility for disclosing any known allergies or sensitivities

8. Refusal of Service

We reserve the right to refuse a colour service where a patch test has not been completed, or where a disclosed allergy or sensitivity makes it unsafe to proceed. Where service is refused on these grounds, any deposit paid may be forfeited.

9. Liability

Where a client has failed to complete a patch test, misrepresented their patch test outcome, or failed to disclose known allergies, Generations Hair Salon accepts no liability for any adverse reaction. Nothing in this clause limits your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.

10. Questions

Contact us at info@generationshair.com.au or 02 4390 5260 with any questions about patch testing.

Document: Patch Test Policy | Generations Hair Salon | Fuggle Generations Pty Ltd | ABN 71 698 910 691 | Effective August 2026