Background Patch testing is the gold standard for identifying culprit allergens in allergic contact dermatitis; however, it is laborious and positive reactions are difficult to quantitate. Development of complementary in vitro tests is, therefore, of great importance. Objectives This study aimed to improve the in vitro lymphocyte proliferation test (LPT) to detect allergic responses to nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and chromium (Cr). Methods Twenty‐one metal allergic patients with a positive patch test to Ni (n=16), Co (n=8), and Cr (n=3) and 13 controls were included. All were tested by a flow cytometric LPT. Results Metal‐reactive cells were identified as T helper (Th) cells with high expression of the memory marker CD45RO. Skin‐homing (cutaneous lymphocyte‐associated antigen positive [CLA+]) Ni‐reactive memory Th (Thmemhi) cells identified individuals with a positive patch test for Ni with 100% sensitivity (95% confidence interval [CI] 81%‐100%) and 92% specificity (95% CI 67%‐100%). Moreover, Co‐specific Thmemhi cells expressing CCR6 identified patients with a positive patch test for Co with 63% sensitivity (95% CI 31%‐86%) and 100% specificity (95% CI 77%‐100%). In Cr allergic individuals, Cr‐reactive Thmemhi cells tended to increased CLA and CCR6 expression. Conclusion Metal‐reactive Th cells with high expression of CD45RO and coexpression of CLA and CCR6 improved the LPT, making it an attractive supplement to the patch test.