Products that can harm.
WHAT CARRIES RISK
Relaxers and straighteners Colour and bleach Perming solutions Nail products and removers Peels and skin treatments
WHAT THE RISKS ARE
Chemical burns Allergic reactions Hair damage and loss Eye injury Respiratory harm from fumes
WHAT TO ESTABLISH BEFORE ANY CHEMICAL SERVICE
What the client has had done previously Whether they have reacted before Whether they have scalp or skin conditions What is currently on their hair
WHY PREVIOUS TREATMENTS MATTER ENORMOUSLY
Combining incompatible chemicals damages hair severely and sometimes causes it to break off.
WHAT TO DO
Ask specifically, and record the answer.
WHAT A PATCH TEST IS
A small application in advance to check for reaction.
WHEN IT IS REQUIRED
Before colour and certain treatments, per the product instructions.
WHY IT MATTERS
Allergic reactions to some hair dyes are severe.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
That tests are done, recorded, and within the required period.
WHAT TO FOLLOW
The manufacturer's instructions, exactly.
WHY EXACTLY
Timing, dilution and application are what prevent injury.
WHAT TO NEVER DO
Leave products on beyond the stated time Mix products not intended to be mixed Apply to broken or irritated skin
WHAT TO PROVIDE STAFF
Gloves and ventilation.
WHY
Repeated exposure causes lasting harm to stylists.
WHAT TO RECORD
Every chemical service: product, formulation, timing, result.
WHY
It informs the next service and answers complaints.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT A REACTION
Stop, remove the product, and seek medical help where warranted.
