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For how long should a patch test be conducted on the skin?

  1. 12 hours

  2. 24 hours

  3. 48 hours

  4. 72 hours

The correct answer is: 24 hours

A patch test should be conducted on the skin for 24 hours to accurately determine any potential allergic reaction to a cosmetic product, such as hair dye or chemicals used in treatments. This time frame is considered sufficient to allow for any immediate or delayed reactions to manifest. Conducting the test for 24 hours helps ensure that if the individual has sensitivities, they will likely start to show signs, such as redness or irritation, within this period. Shorter durations, like 12 hours, may not give enough time to observe reactions that could occur later. On the other hand, durations longer than 24 hours can lead to discomfort or inconvenience for the client without providing additional diagnostic value. Therefore, 24 hours strikes a balance between effective monitoring of reactions and practicality for those in cosmetology.