--- title: "Patch Tests in Brighton: Why They Matter and When You Need One | Gingko Hairdressing - Brighton" description: "Patch testing keeps you safe. See when you need one for colour and toner in Brighton and how far ahead to book." canonical: "https://www.ginkgohair.co.uk/blog/hair-colour-patch-test-brighton" last_updated: "2025-10-15T09:52:10.050Z" --- # Patch Tests in Brighton: Why They Matter and When You Need One ![Ben Morphy Salon Owner and Artistic director and Ginkgo Hair Brighton. ](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2Fben-morphy-ginkgo-64x96.webp%3Fv%3D1759504924767&w=128&q=75&dpl=dpl_DEc4fGhEc1SCRZZutzoEsRuDy1CJ) Benjamin MorphyArtistic Director & Owner PublishedThursday, 2 October 2025 Patch tests are simple, quick, and essential. They help us check that your skin is happy with the colour we plan to use, so you can enjoy great results with confidence. Here is what a patch test involves, when you need one, and how to plan it before your appointment in Brighton. ![Stylist applying a small amount of hair colour to the root area for a patch test in a Brighton salon.](https://webfront.frively.com/api/media/file/brighton-patch-test-colour.jpg) ## What a patch test checks A patch test looks for any signs of sensitivity to colour ingredients. We place a tiny amount of product on the skin, usually behind the ear or in the crook of your elbow, to check for redness, itching, or irritation. It is a safety step that protects you and ensures we can go ahead with your colour plan. Call [01273 607895](tel:+441273607895) to book a consultation ## When you must have one You will need a patch test before: - Your **first** colour at our salon - If it has been **6 months** since your last colour with us - If you have changed **brand** or **service** - After any change in your health, medications, or if you have had a skin reaction elsewhere For glosses and [Toners,](/services/toner-refresh) testing is required **if the product contains colourants**. We will confirm this during consultation. Explore services: [Hair Colour](/service-categories/hair-colouring-kemptown-brighton) ## Timelines before your visit Please come in **at least 48 hours** before your colour appointment. This gives enough time to monitor your skin for any reaction and keeps your booking on track. If you are short on time, call us and we will try to find a quick slot for testing. ## What happens on the day - We apply a small dab of the **exact brand** and **type** of product we plan to use - You head home and keep the area dry for the first few hours - If you notice redness, itching, or discomfort at any point, let us know so we can adjust your plan - No reaction, you are all set for colour day Read our policy any time: [Patch Test Policy](/patch-test-policy) ## If you have had a reaction before Tell us at consultation. We will review your colour history, check ingredients, and suggest safe alternatives or a different approach, for example a non oxidative gloss. Your comfort is the priority. * * * ## FAQs **How far ahead** At least **48 hours** before your colour or toner appointment. **Is one brand test valid for all** **No.** Tests are brand and service specific. A new test is needed if we change products. **Do I need one for toner** **Yes,** if the toner contains colourants. **How long does it take** Just a **few minutes** in salon. From the blog ## Recent articles [All articles](/blog) [ ![Woman with glossy copper waves, professional salon colour and bond treatment in Brighton.](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2Fbrighton-glossy-waves.jpg%3Fv%3D1759554639286&w=1536&q=75&dpl=dpl_DEc4fGhEc1SCRZZutzoEsRuDy1CJ) 1 min ### WellaPlex in Brighton: What It Does, Who It’s For, How It Protects During Colour ](/blog/wellaplex-vs-olaplex-brighton)[ ![Woman with vibrant copper curly hair, professional salon colour and styling in Brighton.](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2Fbrighton-red-curls.jpg%3Fv%3D1759553726843&w=1536&q=75&dpl=dpl_DEc4fGhEc1SCRZZutzoEsRuDy1CJ) 1 min ### Root Tint vs Full Head Tint: Which Is Right for You? ](/blog/root-tint-vs-full-head-tint-brighton)[ ![Stylist cutting wet hair with scissors and comb, ladies cut and blow-dry in a Brighton salon.](/_next/image?url=%2Fapi%2Fmedia%2Ffile%2Fbrighton-wet-cut.jpg%3Fv%3D1759555181002&w=1536&q=75&dpl=dpl_DEc4fGhEc1SCRZZutzoEsRuDy1CJ) 1 min ### Ladies Cut and Blow-Dry in Brighton: Choose the Right Shape for Your Face ](/blog/ladies-cut-and-blow-dry-brighton)