The Secret to Your Dream Hair: Why Patch Tests, Consultations, and Aftercare are Non-Negotiable
- The Engine Room at Baykar London
- Feb 7
- 2 min read
We’ve all seen it: that stunning, Pinterest-perfect hair colour that looks like it was painted by angels (hope you agree that our clients on the photos above have just that....). It’s tempting to think that achieving that look is as simple as picking a box or sitting in a chair for an hour. But as any hair professional will tell you, the secret to gorgeous, healthy colour isn't just the dye—it's the process.
If you’re dreaming of a transformation, there are three essential steps that protect your hair, your health, and your investment: The Patch Test, The Consultation, and Aftercare.
1. The Patch Test: Your Safety First
It might seem like a tiny dot behind your
ear is an unnecessary step, but the patch test is the most important part of your appointment.
Why it matters: Hair colour is chemistry. Even if you’ve coloured your hair for years, your body’s chemistry can change, and new allergies can develop at any time. A patch test ensures you won’t have an adverse reaction to the specific professional formulas we use.
The 48-Hour Rule: We perform this test at least 48 hours before your service. It’s a small time commitment that prevents a major medical headache.
2. The Consultation: Managing Expectations
A consultation is where your vision meets our expertise. It’s a dedicated time for us to look at your hair’s history and determine what’s actually possible.
Honesty is Key: We need to know your hair’s "life story." Have you used box dye? Have you had a perm? This info determines how the colour will lift and take.
The Plan: During the consultation, we discuss the "road map." Some transformations (like going from jet black to platinum blonde) are a journey, not a one-stop destination. We’ll talk about budget, time, and the health of your strands to ensure the result is something you’ll love.
3. Aftercare: Protecting Your Investment
You wouldn't buy a silk dress and wash it in hot water with harsh detergent, right? Your hair is the same. The work doesn't end when you leave the salon chair.
Professional Products: Grocery store shampoos often contain harsh sulphates that strip colour and moisture. Using salon-grade aftercare ensures your colour stays vibrant and your hair remains strong. We make sure we check out prices of other retailers and 95% of the time we can offer you better deals on your aftercare, plus you don't have to wait f
or the elusive courier.....
Heat Protection: High heat is the enemy of fresh colour. Always use a heat protectant and try to turn down the temperature on your styling tools.
The Golden Rule: Wait at least 48 to 72 hours before your first wash post-colour to allow the hair cuticle to fully close and "lock in" the pigment.
The Bottom Line
Beautiful hair is a partnership between you and your stylist. By prioritising safety through patch testing, clarity through consultation, and longevity through aftercare, we ensure your hair stays as healthy as it is beautiful.
Ready for a change? Let’s start the journey together.
Book your consultation today and let’s create a look that’s uniquely yours!
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