Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Atlantic, NC

Employment, DOT, Court Ordered, Personal
Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG

17 Hair Drug Testing Centers in Atlantic

Minutes Away, Test Today

312 Commerce Ave Ste C25.58 miles

312 Commerce Ave Ste C
Morehead City, NC 28557

212 N 35th St25.93 miles

212 N 35th St
Morehead City, NC 28557

3722 Bridges St26.13 miles

3722 Bridges St
Morehead City, NC 28557

3722 Bridges St Ste A26.13 miles

3722 Bridges St Ste A
Morehead City, NC 28557

5059 Hwy 70 W28.06 miles

5059 Hwy 70 W
Morehead City, NC 28557

5286d Highway 70 W28.16 miles

5286d Highway 70 W
Morehead City, NC 28557

600 Morehead Ave31.70 miles

600 Morehead Ave
Atlantic Beach, NC 28512

1224 E Main St31.71 miles

1224 E Main St
Havelock, NC 28532

188 Gales Dr34.56 miles

188 Gales Dr
Newport, NC 28570

906 Wb Mclean Blvd43.15 miles

906 Wb Mclean Blvd
Cape Carteret, NC 28584

2205 Brices Creek Rd43.66 miles

2205 Brices Creek Rd
New Bern, NC 28562

1040 Medical Park Ave45.29 miles

1040 Medical Park Ave
New Bern, NC 28562

1425 S Glenburnie Rd45.54 miles

1425 S Glenburnie Rd
New Bern, NC 28562

790 Cardinal Rd45.67 miles

790 Cardinal Rd
New Bern, NC 28562

5413 Morton Rd45.82 miles

5413 Morton Rd
New Bern, NC 28562

202 Bluff Ct47.75 miles

202 Bluff Ct
New Bern, NC 28562

166 E Water St47.89 miles

166 E Water St
Belhaven, NC 27810

Employment, Court Ordered, Probation, Family

In Atlantic, North Carolina, Accredited Drug Testing offers comprehensive hair follicle drug test services. Specializing in hair-based drug and alcohol tests, we provide these services through our testing facilities located throughout the nation. A sample of 1.5 to 2 inches of hair from the scalp or body is typically required. Hair analyses can detect drugs, alcohol/ETG, and offer various customized testing options.

The trend towards using hair follicle drug tests has increased significantly in recent years. These are now preferred by employers, courts, and Substance Abuse professionals over traditional urine tests. Hair follicle tests align with zero-tolerance drug use policies, and are utilized for probation and legal purposes. Their key advantage lies in the extended detection period, up to 90 days, coupled with an observed collection process that makes them difficult to falsify. For detection within the past 5 days, however, urine tests are still considered more precise.

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended historical record of these substances by encapsulating biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair. Collected from near the scalp, hair can provide a detection timeframe of up to 3 months for drugs and alcohol. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A 1.5-inch sample consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil thickness) close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is advisable for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is not accessible, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. When mentioning head hair, it pertains to scalp hair solely. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The key stages in processing a drug test result in a laboratory are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning refers to the preliminary integration of a sample into a lab’s system. It involves ensuring the sample’s sealing and proper delivery, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any pending data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.

Screening performs an initial speedy review for drug abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be verified for legal admissibility. Presumptive positive samples from Screening need secondary confirmation.

If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair from the initial specimen is prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.

Positive screening results are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is subjected to review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

  • Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, as opposed to urine tests which have a shorter timeframe.
  • Hard to manipulate: It is exceedingly tough to alter a hair drug test, thus ensuring result accuracy.
  • Offers usage history: It can display a drug use pattern over time, not just the immediate past.

Limitations:

  • Unable to detect recent use: There is a 5-7 day lag before drugs become detectable in hair.
  • Expense: Hair drug tests are typically costlier than other drug testing techniques.
  • Result variability: Factors like hair color and individual hair growth differences can impact the drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Often termed as "hair follicle tests", the assessment actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing in Atlantic, NC, is a game-changer compared to traditional urine tests. Superior in detecting controlled substances, hair tests offer enhanced reliability and accuracy. The extended detection period outperforms the limited scope of urine tests, offering a more detailed view of substance use over time.

Employers choosing hair tests over urine tests find the superior accuracy offers better compliance with workplace standards. These tests provide greater assurance against false negatives, ensuring a thorough and uncompromised evaluation of drug use history with minimal risk of tampering.

Extended Detection Window

Atlantic, NC employers benefit from the extended detection window of hair follicle testing, which covers up to 90 days of substance use history. This method offers a comprehensive assessment of an individual's long-term drug use, exceeding the constraints of shorter detection windows provided by other testing methods.

The longer detection period allows employers to make more informed decisions based on an employee's or applicant's substance history. This depth of insight supports a healthier and more secure work environment, reinforcing policies with a stronger evidence base for substance use evaluation.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle testing in Atlantic, NC, is renowned for its tamper-resistant nature. Unlike other testing methods, hair tests significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration. Their robust methodology ensures the reliability and integrity of results, offering credible outcomes that stand up to scrutiny.

By prioritizing tamper-resistant techniques, hair follicle tests protect the interests of employers and legal entities. The security in the testing process guarantees that the results are trustworthy, providing a solid foundation for decision-making within various organizational frameworks.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenience is at the forefront with our extensive testing network in Atlantic, NC. Our nationwide locations offer ease of access and flexibility, ensuring quick and straightforward testing for all clients. Local facilities provide efficient service, reducing travel time and streamlining the testing experience.

With a focus on accessibility, our testing centers across the nation deliver hassle-free drug testing services. Clients benefit from our comprehensive network, receiving fast and reliable service within their local vicinity, enhancing the overall user experience with minimal inconvenience.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Atlantic, NC, the hair follicle testing process is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering to taking the test and obtaining results, every step prioritizes ease of use and privacy. We address concerns about confidentiality, ensuring sensitive information is handled with the utmost care.

Clients experience a straightforward process, with clear instructions and guidance at every stage. Our commitment to discretion ensures that all testing operations are carried out with respect for the individual's privacy, fostering trust and satisfaction among those we serve.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Our competitive pricing structure in Atlantic, NC is designed to provide excellent value for all companies. Fast turnaround times paired with cost-effective solutions make hair follicle testing accessible to businesses of any size. With affordability coupled with speed, we meet the needs of diverse organizational budgets.

Clients benefit from our commitment to affordability without compromising on quality. Efficient processing and quick results enhance the overall value of our services, allowing businesses to maintain compliance and operational continuity without financial strain.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Atlantic, NC, hair follicle drug testing is synonymous with rapid and precise results. With high accuracy levels, these tests effectively identify substance use, ensuring reliability. The process is streamlined to deliver results efficiently, making it a preferred choice for those seeking fast, reliable substance detection solutions.

Employers and individuals alike appreciate the speed and precision of hair follicle tests. By using advanced detection methods, these tests provide an accurate assessment of substance use, aligning with the needs of Atlantic's workforce and legal entities requiring quick and dependable results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Atlantic, NC, achieve compliance and peace of mind with hair follicle testing. Implementing drug-free workplace policies becomes seamless, reducing legal risks and enhancing safety. This reliable testing method supports organizations in maintaining a healthy, compliant workforce environment.

Hair follicle testing acts as a safeguard, ensuring that employers meet regulatory standards effortlessly. Peace of mind is assured, knowing that their drug-free policies are supported by a testing method that effectively minimizes legal liabilities and strengthens workplace security.

What's New In Hair Follicle Drug Testing according to the Hair Drug Testing Experts

With its multidisciplinary nature, hair testing brings together researchers, scientists, and experts from various domains to develop innovative techniques, explore new methodologies, and address emerging concerns, responding to the ever-evolving challenges of drug abuse, therapeutic drug monitoring, and environmental exposures to pollutants.

The joint meeting of the Society of Hair Testing (SoHT) and the Italian Group of Forensic Toxicologists (GTFI) was organized in Verona, June 8–10, 2022, and hosted by the Legal Medicine team of the Verona University Hospital, directed by Franco Tagliaro together with Federica Bortolotti and Rossella Gottardo.

It served as a prominent platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, facilitating groundbreaking advancements in hair testing and analysis. In this special issue of Drug Testing and Analysis, we aim to showcase the remarkable manuscripts presented at this significant event, shedding light on the latest research and highlighting the future directions in this field.

Novel Analytical Techniques: The Verona meeting witnessed the unveiling of cutting-edge analytical techniques, offering enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and accuracy for drug testing. Remarkable advancements in sample preparation, detection, and identification of drug compounds have been presented. The manuscripts in this section presented novel approaches, such as multianalyte methods and on-line preparation which can enable rapid analysis and improve thorough forensic investigations.

Biomarkers and Pharmacokinetics: The identification and validation of reliable biomarkers and pharmacokinetic studies are fundamental aspects of drug testing and analysis. The impact of hair treatments on the oxidation/decomposition of drugs in hair was also explored, as the long-term fate of drugs incorporated in the keratin matrix. Furthermore, the SoHT meeting in Verona featured research on the identification and quantification of alcohol abuse biomarkers, their stability, and their correlation with exposure and other biomarkers.

Forensic Applications and Interpretation: One of the vital objectives of hair testing is its application in forensic investigations and legal proceedings. The SoHT meeting in Verona emphasized the significance of rigorous interpretation of analytical results and the need for standardized protocols. Manuscripts in this section present advancements in forensic toxicology, and have explored the challenges posed by emerging designer drugs and strategies to combat their proliferation. The pitfalls encountered when the exogenous/endogenous nature of a substance is questioned were presented and discussed. The special issue presents also manuscripts that delve into the ethical implications of drug testing in drug facilitated sexual assaults.

Clinical Applications of hair testing are witnessed by the insight on environmental tobacco smoke exposure, assessed by hair analysis in a population of students and the study of in utero-exposure to drugs of abuse through neonatal hair analysis. Exposure to drugs was also important in cases of child abuse/neglect, when the clinical purpose of hair testing merge with its forensic applications.

The legal framework surrounding hair testing and the achievement of guidelines to ensure fairness, accuracy, and confidentiality in drug testing practices have also been discussed,and the SoHT consensus on general hair testing and testing for drugs of abuse was presented at the meeting and published as a Letter to the Editor.

In conclusion, the special issue of Drug Testing and Analysis, featuring manuscripts from the SoHT–GTFI meeting in Verona 2022, reflects the remarkable advancements achieved in this field. The manuscripts provide valuable insights into novel analytical techniques, biomarkers, pharmacokinetics, forensic applications, and ethical considerations. As we embrace these advancements, we pave the way for a safer, healthier society, where drug testing and analysis serve as powerful tools in protecting public health and maintaining integrity in various sectors. The research presented in this special issue will undoubtedly shape the future of drug testing and analysis, fostering collaboration and inspiring further innovation in this crucial area of scientific inquiry.


Atlantic Drug Testing

Quickly find trusted local drug testing centers in Atlantic, NC — fast, convenient, and reliable every time!

Atlantic DOT Drug Testing

Quickly find a local DOT drug testing center in Atlantic, NC — fast, reliable, convenient nationwide service!

Atlantic DNA Testing

DNA testing for legal and non-legal purposes including child support, and child custody around Atlantic, NC.

Atlantic Industry Training

Including specimen collector training, DER training, reasonable suspicion training and much more in Atlantic, NC.v

Atlantic Hair Drug Testing

Get fast, accurate hair drug testing at our convenient Atlantic, NC locations—results you can trust, every time!

Atlantic Alcohol Testing

Fast, reliable alcohol testing to keep your workplace safe and compliant every single day in Atlantic, NC.

Atlantic Drug Testing Services

Reliable nationwide drug testing services ensuring accuracy, compliance, and quick results for businesses and individuals in Atlantic, NC.

Atlantic 5 Panel Drug Test

Accurate 5 panel drug testing with fast, confidential results—trusted by Atlantic, NC employers and individuals nationwide.

Atlantic 10 Panel Drug Test

Comprehensive 10 panel drug testing with fast, reliable results—trusted for Atlantic, NC workplace and personal testing needs.

Atlantic On Site Drug Testing

Convenient on-site mobile drug testing with fast, reliable results—saving time while keeping your Atlantic, NC workplace compliant.

Atlantic DOT Physicals

Certified DOT physicals with quick, reliable exams to keep Atlantic, NC drivers compliant and on the road with confidence.

DOT Consortium

Join our DOT consortium for hassle-free compliance, random testing management, and reliable driver safety solutions.


Frequently Asked Questions

A hair follicle drug test analyzes a small sample of hair to detect a history of drug use over time. Because drug metabolites are incorporated into hair as it grows, this method can show patterns of use instead of just recent exposure. It is frequently used for legal and court requirements, long-term monitoring, and high-trust workforce screening.
Standard hair drug testing typically reflects drug use over approximately a 90-day period, based on the length of hair collected at the time of testing. Longer hair can sometimes reflect a longer time frame, and extremely short hair can reduce that window.
Hair drug testing commonly screens for marijuana/THC, cocaine, opiates/opioids, amphetamines/methamphetamines, and PCP. In many cases, additional expanded panels may be requested to include other substances.
Yes. If the donor's head hair is too short or unavailable, body hair may be collected as an alternative. The collector will document the source of the sample. This allows testing even for individuals with recently cut or shaved head hair.
Yes. Hair drug testing is commonly used in court, probation, custody, and compliance matters because the collection process follows a documented chain of custody and the analysis is performed by a certified laboratory. Results are provided in a form that can be reviewed by legal and administrative authorities.
Yes. Individuals, parents, attorneys, employers, and probation programs can all request hair drug testing. A doctor's order is not required. Results are confidential and released only to the authorized requesting party.
Hair testing provides a longer look-back period than urine testing, making it useful when you need to demonstrate ongoing abstinence or identify repeated/recent substance use patterns over time rather than just recent exposure. It is frequently selected for legal, compliance, and custody-related documentation.
A small section of hair is cut by a trained collector in a discreet, controlled manner. The sample is sealed, documented, and sent to the laboratory under established chain-of-custody procedures so that the results can be defended if they are ever challenged.

Customer Reviews

Sweet and helpful

Trish was amazing and got me through the sytem very fast and swift. I had a hard time hearing her a couple of times, but she was super sweet and helpful throughout the process. Highly recommend her!

Sophia Schutze - 6/19/2024

Quick, knowledgeable and courteous

Quick, knowledgeable and courteous Janelle worked diligently to support me. I am recommending their services to anyone looking.

Greensboro Joseph - 11/19/2024

Very Fun and Easy

Trish last week and Tatiana this week, very fun and easy folks to deal with. Well be using them more and more in the future.

Tom O - 12/19/2024


(800) 221-4291