Search
Search

Award winning dermatology service, with over 20 years of experience

Short waiting lists, on some occasions offering same week appointments

Safe environment, in Care Quality Commission approved facilities

Conditions:

SKIN PATCH TESTING IN SHREWSBURY, SHROPSHIRE

At St. Michael’s Clinic, our patch testing facility is a specialist unit designed to determine if your skin disease is caused by an allergic contact reaction. In addition to patch testing, we offer a comprehensive range of blood allergy tests to identify any allergic components contributing to your skin condition.



Our patch testing service is managed by a team of highly qualified dermatology specialist nurses and physician assistants, all with extensive experience in providing patch tests. We welcome any patient referred by a UK-registered consultant dermatologist. If you have not seen a dermatologist but are concerned about a contact allergy, please book an appointment with one of our consultants. We can then facilitate your testing, investigation and treatment.



It is important to note that there is currently no other test on the market, aside from a patch test, that can identify a contact allergy. While blood tests are available for allergies, they are typically used to identify inhaled, airborne or ingested allergens, not contact allergens.

UNDERSTANDING ALLERGY PATCH TESTING

Allergy patch testing is a process used to pinpoint substances that could be the root cause or the exacerbating factor to your skin rash.
The procedure of allergy patch testing comprises the application of sticky patches on your back, or occasionally on non-affected areas such as arms or legs. Each patch carries tiny compartments filled with ordinary household chemicals, kept in direct contact with your skin. This encompasses things like fragrances, colouring, preservatives seen in creams, hair dye, metals and so forth – all non-toxic everyday chemicals. A single patch test can screen for anywhere between 20 and 70 allergens.

The complete testing process necessitates three clinic visits spread over five to six days: The patches are fixed and the areas are outlined with ink. After 48 hours, the patches are taken off, readings are recorded and the areas are inked again. 48 to 72 hours later, the final readings are conducted.

YOUR INITIAL PATCH TEST APPOINTMENT

Ensure that your back is spotless, devoid of hair, and has no moisturisers applied on it.
The patches will be affixed onto your upper back, or perhaps arms or thighs, in the guise of small disks on hypoallergenic adhesive. Your skin will be marked with ink. The patches need to stay intact for a duration of 48 hours. If any patch loosens, kindly secure it back with tape. Experiencing itchiness at the patch test sites is usual and you might feel your back motion a bit constrained. If an allergy to any of the substances exists, it will be visible on your back, even if the rash occurs on a different body part. Once the patches have been placed, it’s imperative to keep your back dry from water and sweat until your concluding appointment.

YOUR FOLLOW-UP PATCH TEST APPOINTMENT

After two days, the patch tests on your back will be taken off and evaluated for any initial positive responses. We will trace the back with ink and possibly place a strip of tape to facilitate the detection of additional reactions during your final check-up. It’s crucial that you continue to keep your back dry so the markings stay intact on your skin.

YOUR THIRD PATCH TEST APPOINTMENT

Your last patch test interpretation is scheduled 5-7 days post the first application. During this visit, your expert will review the outcomes and provide detailed insights about any substance that has triggered a reaction. This information will be instrumental in helping you prevent future exposure to such allergens.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Some of the allergens include fragrances, colourings, preservatives found in creams, hair dye, metals and others.
After undergoing a patch test, it is generally advised to avoid showering or exposing the test area to water until the test is complete and the patches are removed by your healthcare provider.
If you have a positive allergy from a patch test, the most common side effect is itching, which can also result from an irritant reaction under the tape. Reactions may occasionally become red, swollen or blistered, and in cases of strong positive allergies, these reactions can persist for several weeks. Positive patch tests can also cause eczema flare-ups and inflammation, leading to pigment changes that may lighten or darken the skin; these changes typically last for a few months and are rarely permanent.

REQUEST A CALL BACK

Please fill in this form and one of our team will give you a call back to arrange a consultation with one of our expert dermatologists.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Best Time To Call?
Please tick if you are an existing patient
dermatologist consultation

HEAR FROM OUR PATIENTS

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
I honestly couldn’t recommend Amber enough! After just ONE session, I noticed such a dramatic difference in my hair growth, and I genuinely couldn’t believe the results. Having thick, dark hair, I’ve tried different laser treatments before, but this is by far the best laser I’ve experienced. The difference has been incredible, even after just one session.

Beyond the results, Amber is such a warm and welcoming person who makes you feel comfortable from the moment you walk in. She’s genuinely helped restore my confidence, and I can’t thank her enough. So happy I found her! ❤️
  
 
 Posted on Google Google 
 
 
 
 Paris profile picture 
 
 
 Paris 
 
November 9, 2026
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Such a lovely staff. I got my UVB treatment done and everyone was so charming. I felt so comfortable.

Special thanks to Sharon and Anca ❤️
  
 
 Posted on Google Google 
 
 
 
 Najia Zaidi profile picture 
 
 
 Najia Zaidi 
 
November 7, 2026
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Referred by my Doctor to St Michael’s from the minute I stepped through the doors in August knew I was in good hands every one is professional, patient and treat you with respect and kindness today 5th November I had my follow up and I can honestly say the Doctor I saw really was one of the best doctors I have ever seen I went in feeling really distressed and came out calm,relaxed and overwhelmed with the kindness I was shown during the consultation. Definitely highly recommend this practice. I really can’t thank the Doctor enough for helping me through today.
  
 
 Posted on Google Google 
 
 
 
 Mandy Perry profile picture 
 
 
 Mandy Perry 
 
November 5, 2026
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Always personal, expert, empathic and highly professional.  I had multiple facial cryotherapy and now look very contagious to the public. However, the treatment of this kind is most important, having had one  BCC and concerned not to have another one that’s regular visits to this clinic of high importance. Thank you.
  
 
 Posted on Google Google 
 
 
 
 Ian Gow profile picture 
 
 
 Ian Gow 
 
November 5, 2026
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Diagnosis and removal of a melanoma. Excellent care provided by Dr Hudson-Peacock which resulted in an amazing reconstruction His team were very professional.
  
 
 Posted on Google Google 
 
 
 
 Wynne Jones profile picture 
 
 
 Wynne Jones 
 
November 5, 2026

WHY GET PATCH TESTING FOR ALLERGIES DONE AT ST. MICHAEL'S CLINIC?

Here at St. Michael’s Clinic, Shrewsbury’s leading private skin and laser treatment clinic, our experts are specialists in all aspects of dermatology, skin cancer, anti-ageing and beauty treatments. We offer NHS patients consultant-led dermatology services in Shrewsbury.

St. Michael’s Clinic is regulated by the Care Quality Commission, ensuring the best level of treatment is provided to you in a safe environment. We are part of the Dermatology Partnership, a leading group of dermatology clinics, defined by clinical excellence and focusing on leading dermatological care.

INSIGHTS AND ADVICE

Autumn skin conditions

Your Guide to Autumn Skincare

With the weather gradually cooling and leaves taking on their autumnal palette, it’s also a gentle reminder that winter is on its way. Maintaining a vibrant and healthy skin during the transition from summer to cooler days can be challenging. Fear not – this comprehensive

READ MORE
atopic dermatitis eczema

The Definitive Guide to Eczema

Eczema Awareness Month in October is a global initiative spotlighting those who suffer from this demanding skin ailment. Our perpetual aim is to arm you with a well-rounded understanding of eczema‘s core causes, differing treatments and beneficial coping mechanisms. This all-inclusive guide offers penetrating insights

READ MORE