What it is, How it works

Hair testing is now recognized as an effective tool for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the strands, hair captures a long-term history of alcohol and other drug use. When collected near the scalp, hair can detect alcohol and drugs for approximately three months. This method is easy to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A sample taking 1.5 inches of around 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is considered optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional assays, and tests exceeding 10 panels, it's suggested to have 150mg of the sample. We advise measuring the sample using a jewelerâ€™s scale. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent portion of body hair can be used. References to head hair indicate scalp hair exclusively, while body hair encompasses all other types, like facial or axillary hair.

Process Overview

Processing a drug test result in a lab entails four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning comprises the preliminary processing of a sample within the lab's system, which includes verifying the sample's seal and transport integrity, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data entry lacking from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is an initial test searching for drugs of abuse. While it's a budget-friendly approach to dismiss drug use in many samples, a positive result requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Any Screening results that are presumptively positive necessitate secondary confirmation.

If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is obtained from the original sample for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a far lower concentration than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing particularly challenging.

Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as needed. The entire processing sequence, from Accessioning through Confirmation, is validated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Benefits of hair drug testing:

Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug use up to 90 days prior, in contrast to urine tests with shorter detection periods.
High resistance to tampering: It's notably challenging to manipulate a hair drug test, ensuring more precise results.
Historical usage data: It reveals a drug use pattern over time, unlike tests that only reflect recent use.

Drawbacks:

Lack of recent-use detection: Drugs become detectable in hair after roughly 5-7 days.
Higher cost: Hair drug tests are typically pricier than other approaches.
Result variability: Factors like hair color and individual hair growth differences can impact drug metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: While commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Testing Triumphs in Cobalt, ID

Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests by offering superior detection accuracy and reliability. This method ensures a more thorough analysis of past drug use.

Benefits Over Urine Tests

Extended detection window.
Reduced opportunity for cheating.
More robust and conclusive results.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Substance Detection in Cobalt, ID

With hair follicle testing, identify drug use over a span of 90 days, giving employers a thorough insight into an individual's substance history. This extended detection period beats other testing methods.

Diverse Detection Capabilities

Tracks prolonged substance use.
Offers a comprehensive individual profile.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Reliable Testing in Cobalt, ID

Hair follicle tests offer a tamper-resistant approach, significantly minimizing the risk of sample adulteration. This results in highly trustworthy outcomes.

Assured Integrity

Observed collection process secures samples.
Technical safeguards underline authenticity.
Confirms reliable and unquestionable results.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Testing Centers in Cobalt, ID

With numerous nationwide locations, getting tested has never been easier. Experience hassle-free services near you, ensuring quick and efficient testing procedures.

Access With Ease

Widespread accessibility across the nation.
Localized services in Cobalt, ID.
Efficient and prompt testing solutions at your convenience.

Simple, Confidential Process

Easier, Confidential Testing in Cobalt, ID

Our streamlined process makes ordering, undergoing, and receiving test results straightforward, maintaining user confidentiality and peace of mind.

Friendly and Discreet Procedures

User-friendly steps for individuals.
Ensures privacy at every stage.
Simple navigation for all parties involved.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Cost-Effective Solutions in Cobalt, ID

We offer competitive pricing structures that make our hair follicle testing accessible to all companies. Enjoy peace of mind with our fast results and affordable fees.

Value-Driven Testing

Quick turnaround times without breaking the bank.
Affordable solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Ensures client satisfaction and economic feasibility.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Precision and Speed in Cobalt, ID

Hair follicle drug testing provides fast, reliable, and accurate results. The process quickly identifies past substance use, ensuring results you can trust in Cobalt, ID.

Trustworthy Outcomes

High accuracy in identifying drug presence.
Rapid completion and processing times.
Assured reliability for both individuals and enterprises.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Assurance for Employers in Cobalt, ID

Using hair follicle testing can reinforce adherence to drug-free workplace standards, reducing potential legal risks and promoting a safer work environment.

Ensuring Workplace Safety