Before your first colour appointment: consultation and patch testing

Colour appointment names describe different kinds of work, and a reference photograph does not always reveal which one you need. If you are new to the salon or unsure what to select, start with the listed Hair Consultation/patch test appointment. Explain your current colour, your desired result and anything that has changed since your last salon visit.

Bring recent photographs in ordinary light and a small selection of references. Point out the feature you want to change, such as colour around the face, visible regrowth or the overall shade. This makes the discussion more precise than choosing a service solely because its name sounds familiar.

The booking menu states that all new customers must have a patch test no less than 48 hours before their colouring appointment. It also says that a customer arriving for colour without that test will be asked to complete a patch test and rebook. Build this requirement into your plans before reserving an appointment close to an event.

Follow the salon's instructions for arranging and completing the test, and tell them about relevant previous reactions or sensitivities before proceeding. A website checklist cannot determine whether a product is suitable for you. Ask the salon directly if you are uncertain about the policy or your circumstances.

The published colour options include parting colours, T-section highlights, half-head and full-head highlights, permanent all-over colour, regrowth touch-up, semi-permanent colour and a money piece. The menu describes the money piece as colour added around the front hairline. These options are useful conversation starters, rather than a substitute for assessing your starting point.

For example, you could ask whether your goal concerns selected sections or an all-over change, and whether existing colour affects the proposed appointment. Share an honest colour history, including home products and recent changes. Let the stylist explain the appropriate booking and what it covers.

At the time checked, the scheduler lists permanent regrowth touch-up at £52 for up to eight weeks of regrowth, permanent all-over colour at £72 and semi-permanent colour at £42. Highlights have separate menu entries, including a full-head option specifically described for more than ten weeks' growth. Always review the current appointment menu before booking.

The half-head listing also mentions a regrowth surcharge. Ask the salon how it applies to the time since your last appointment rather than making your own calculation. Confirm whether finishing, additional colour work or other options are included in your chosen appointment, and request clarification before treating a displayed service price as your complete bill.

Before ending the consultation, confirm which appointment to book, when the patch test must happen and how to prepare. If the colour is for a wedding or another important event, share the date early and ask the salon to advise on appointment planning.

Keep the agreed service name and any additional notes with your booking details. The live scheduler is branded Mortimer Hair House, the salon associated with Hair Up Solutions. Use that current menu for availability and pricing, and contact the business when a description leaves something important unanswered.