Henna eyebrow tinting is one of the most requested services in beauty salons. It offers a natural alternative to traditional chemical dyes, providing long-lasting colour and a shading effect that can improve the shape and look of the eyebrows.
Although henna is a natural pigment and generally safe, it's always wise to carry out a patch test before any treatment to avoid allergic reactions and make sure the chosen shade is right for the client. Remember to properly inform your client and have them sign an informed consent form for this treatment before the test.
Below, we explain why you should always do a patch test and how to do it correctly.
Why should you always do a patch test?
Avoiding allergic reactions
Although Imperium Beauty Group's henna pigment (the one we recommend at Seena Owell) is 100% natural, there's always a chance a client may be sensitive or allergic to one of the product's components. An allergic reaction can appear as redness, itching or swelling in the area where the product is applied. It can range from mild irritation to more serious reactions, which is why it's crucial to do a patch test 48 hours before the full application. This lets us detect any sensitivity before applying the product to a larger, more visible area like the eyebrows.
Checking the right shade
The patch test also lets us check how the colour reacts on the client's skin. Pigment intensity can vary depending on skin type, and henna can also oxidise and change colour slightly after application. Doing the patch test ensures the final shade is the one the client wants. This is especially important with eyebrow tinting, where shade precision is key to a natural, satisfying result. Depending on how the client's skin takes the pigment, you'll also be able to assess whether to use the henna activator if you need greater intensity.
How to do a patch test step by step
1. Skin preparation
Before applying the henna, it's essential to thoroughly cleanse the area where you'll do the test, which can be on the forearm or behind the ear. Use a gentle cleanser to remove any trace of make-up, dirt or oil that could interfere with the test.
2. Mixing the henna
In a container, such as a small mixing well, add a small amount of henna powder and gradually add drops of lukewarm water and/or activator, until you get a smooth, creamy consistency. For this test, you can use the dark brown or black shade, which are best suited for detecting possible allergic reactions.
3. Application
Using an applicator brush, apply a small dot of the henna mixture to the chosen area. It shouldn't be too thick or too thin a layer. We recommend choosing an area like behind the ear or a discreet part of the arm, so that in case of a reaction, it won't cause any visible aesthetic discomfort.
4. Waiting time
Leave the henna to work for at least 30 minutes before removing the pigment. Remember that to remove the pigment you should only use cotton wool soaked in lukewarm water. Even if there's no reaction at that point, it's best to wait 48 hours to check for any delayed reaction. During this time, warn the client to avoid getting the area wet or applying cosmetic products to it, and to let you know of any reaction.
5. Evaluating the results
If after 48 hours no adverse reaction is observed, such as redness, itching or swelling, you can safely proceed with the full henna eyebrow tinting service. If there is a reaction, you'll naturally need to stop using the product and recommend other alternatives to your client.
What to do if a client has a reaction to the patch test?
If, after the patch test, your client experiences an allergic reaction such as redness, itching, swelling or any other irritation, it's crucial to act quickly to minimise discomfort and ensure the client's safety.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Immediate cleansing. Remove any henna residue from the affected area straight away with plenty of lukewarm water. Avoid using products that could worsen the irritation, such as those containing alcohol or fragrance.
- Apply a soothing treatment. If there's a lot of irritation, you could apply a soothing cream or an aloe vera-based gel to the affected area. If the client has a history of allergies, it may help for them to apply a topical antihistamine recommended by their pharmacist or dermatologist.
- Medical advice. Although unlikely, if the reaction is severe or doesn't ease after a few minutes, advise the client to go to a medical centre, ideally for a dermatology consultation, to receive appropriate treatment. It's important not to continue with any tinting service until the client has received a professional diagnosis.
- Recording the reaction. Document the reaction and the steps taken in your client records. This will help you adjust future recommendations and avoid using products that could cause a similar reaction in the same client or others with similar characteristics.
- Communication and follow-up. Follow up with the client within the next 24 hours to make sure their condition has improved. Keep communication open and show your commitment to their wellbeing.
This proactive, careful approach not only protects your client's health, but also reinforces trust in the professionalism and reliability of your service.
Determining the right shade
Besides checking skin tolerance, this test also lets you assess whether the chosen shade suits the client. If needed, adjust the henna mix or the shade to get the most flattering colour before the full application.
Conclusion
The patch test is an essential step in the henna eyebrow tinting process, ensuring not only your clients' safety but also their satisfaction with the results. Make sure to follow these steps for every new service to offer a professional, personalised treatment that meets even the most demanding expectations.
If you'd like to know more about henna eyebrow tinting, or you don't offer it at your salon yet, we recommend this article from our blog:
https://seenaowell.com/en/blogs/news/coloracion-de-cejas-con-henna-beneficios
Feel free to share and comment if you found this content interesting. If you'd like personalised advice on any of the products or on carrying out the services, don't hesitate to contact us:
- Chat on the website
- Phone: (+34) 91 421 30 59
- WhatsApp: (+34) 618 578 678
- By email: info@seenaowell.com
