Transform Your Style: Ace the Alaska Hairdresser and Barber Exam 2026 – Snip, Style, and Shine!

A patch test is a critical procedure conducted to evaluate a client's skin sensitivity and potential allergic response to hair dye, chemicals, or other products. Performing a patch test before chemical treatments is essential because these treatments often involve the application of substances that can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. By conducting this test 48 hours prior to the actual procedure, the hairdresser can ensure client safety and prevent adverse reactions when the chemical treatment is applied.

This practice is not generally necessary before every haircut, nor is it solely reserved for new clients. While new clients may also be tested, established clients who are introducing new products should be treated with the same precaution. Additionally, using new tools does not inherently require a patch test since the tools themselves are not the source of chemical irritation or allergic reactions. Thus, a patch test is specifically crucial for any situation involving potential contact with allergens during chemical treatments.