Article date: 24/10/2004
Revolutionary new way to patch test colour clients
A revolutionary new method for patch testing could eliminate the associated problems with the procedure for both hairdressers and clients.
Devised by trichologist Brian Plunkett, in conjunction with the Cranfield Biotechnology Centre at Cranfield University in Milton Keynes, the method involves applying a transfer containing Phenylene Diamine (PPD), the ingredient that causes sensitivity in permanent hair colour. The transfers will come in the form of decorative ‘temporary tattoos’ or simple skin colour transfers. The transfers will be foil wrapped, allowing a salon to buy in bulk and send in the post to clients – eliminating the extra visit to the salon to undergo a patch test which deters clients from visiting salons who adhere to this.
“It is about time we take sensitivity testing seriously within the industry,” said Brian Plunkett. “Our system will give hairdressers a true record of whether their clients will react or not in a quick and efficient method as opposed to the inaccurate and unreliable methods that are currently in operation.”
The transfers can be applied by either the client or salon and have to be left on the skin for 48 hours to accurately gauge if a reaction has taken place. A small area of inflammation on the skin where the transfer has been will signal that the client is sensitive to PPD.
Plunkett is currently in talks with a company who will be able to produce the system and if all goes to plan, the transfers could be in operation as early as January 2004. Plunkett believes that the transfers will cost between five and 10 pence each.