What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has evolved into a robust method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. The hair captures a lasting record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the elongating strand. When sampled near the scalp, hair offers as much as a 3-month detection period for substances. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and easy to transport.

A hair segment measuring 1.5 inches consisting of around 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil’s thickness) near the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal sample size for examinations and confirmations. For EtG, additional tests, or screenings beyond 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is suggested. Using a jeweler’s scale is advised for precision in measuring the sample. If scalp hair isn't present, a comparable amount of body hair can be gathered. The term 'head hair' specifically refers to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Procedure Outline

The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four critical steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning includes the initial incorporation of a sample into a lab’s framework. This process ensures the sample was appropriately sealed and transported, a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) is assigned, and any supplemental data not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system is entered.

Screening serves as a preliminary assessment for detecting drugs of abuse. Although it's a cost-efficient technique to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples testing preliminarily positive during Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.

Should a sample test preliminarily positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen for Extraction. Here, substances are drawn from the hair at concentrations significantly lower than in other testing methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug screening more demanding.

Confirmation of any positive screening finding is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples showing preliminary positives undergo a cleansing process before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Benefits of hair drug testing:

Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can reveal drug intake up to 90 days, unlike urine tests that offer a shorter detection timeframe.
Cheating resistance: Cheating a hair drug test proves extremely challenging, enhancing result accuracy.
Historical data provision: It details a pattern of drug use over time, rather than just recent use.

Drawbacks:

Incapable of detecting recent use: It takes approximately 5-7 days before drugs appear in hair.
Expensive: Hair drug tests are generally costlier than alternative drug testing methods.
Result variability: Elements such as hair color and personal variations in hair growth can influence the concentration of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: While often called "hair follicle tests," the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing - Almonte, CA

The extended detection window of hair tests outperforms urine tests, revealing substance exposure over a longer timeframe.
Hair testing offers higher accuracy and is less invasive, enhancing sample integrity during collection.
For businesses and legal entities, this provides a more reliable overview of drug use history.

Opt for the superior method for comprehensive results.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window - Almonte, CA

Hair tests detect drug use over a period of up to 90 days.
This extended detection period provides a thorough review of an individual's substance use patterns.
Employers and authorities gain insight into long-term habits, aiding crucial decision-making.

Leverage the prolonged detection window for strategic advantages.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method - Almonte, CA

Hair follicle tests significantly reduce the possibility of sample tampering.
Observed collections and intricate analysis ensure result authenticity.
Less opportunity for manipulation boosts trust in results.

Count on hair testing for assured accuracy.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide and Local Testing Locations - Almonte, CA

Nationwide testing centers ensure ease of access for quick and efficient testing.
Local options provide hassle-free solutions, convenient for all.
Reliable services eliminate delays and streamline the testing process.

Experience seamless testing thanks to accessible locations.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process - Almonte, CA

The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving results is straightforward.
Ensures confidentiality, prioritizing user privacy.
Simplified steps offer ease of access, making testing less daunting for participants.

Choose our services for an uncomplicated and private experience.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround - Almonte, CA

Competitive pricing models cater to businesses small and large.
Swift processing means less waiting, delivering prompt outcomes.
Value-driven services provide cost-effective solutions without sacrificing quality.

Ensure timely and budget-friendly testing solutions.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results - Almonte, CA

Hair follicle drug tests provide exceptional precision and are highly reliable for substance detection.
The efficiency in processing and obtaining results ensures timely interventions where necessary.
With high sensitivity, hair tests detect usage patterns more accurately than other methods.

Choose hair testing for unquestionable results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers - Almonte, CA

Utilizing hair tests aligns with drug-free policies and minimizes legal repercussions.
Employers gain confidence in maintaining a safe workplace environment.
Reduce risks by following stringent testing procedures with hair follicle tests.

Secure the workplace with peace of mind through effective testing.