Missouri Barber Practice Exam 2025 - Free Barber Practice Questions and Study Guide

Before coloring a client's hair, it is crucial to perform a patch test. This test checks for allergic reactions to the hair dye, ensuring the safety of the client. It involves applying a small amount of the dye on a discreet area of the skin, typically behind the ear or on the inner elbow, and waiting for a specified period, usually 24 to 48 hours. If any irritation, redness, or allergic reaction occurs during that time, it indicates that the client should not use that particular product.

While a strand test can assess how the hair will respond to the dye, including color outcome and potential damage, it does not focus on the client's skin response to the chemicals. Shampooing the hair is a common practice before coloring, but it is not strictly required prior to the application and does not assess client safety. Consulting a physician is unnecessary unless there are specific health concerns that could affect the dyeing process. Prioritizing the patch test safeguards the client and aligns with best practices in hair care and safety standards.