Warning: A bad reaction at a wedding in Tulsa made me change my patch test rules

I was doing bridal party updos at a hotel in Tulsa last month. A bridesmaid had a mild allergy listed, so I did a quick patch test with the styling gel behind her ear. She said it felt fine. Two hours later, during photos, her scalp and neckline were bright red and swollen. The venue's heat and her sweat made the product run, hitting skin the patch test missed. Now I do a full 24-hour patch test on the exact area where the product will be used, no exceptions, even if the client says it's okay. Has anyone else had a patch test fail because of sweat or heat?

3 comments

3 Comments

taraanderson17d ago

Ever think about testing with a bit of sweat already on the skin?

christopherwilson17d ago

Hey @taraanderson, that's a good point. I saw someone online say that's how they test workout gear for real. Makes sense to check if it still works when you're already a bit damp.

white.blair10d ago

Actually, that seems like overkill for most clients. A patch test behind the ear should catch a true allergy, the real issue was product runoff. You just need to be more careful with application, not add a whole extra day of testing.