What it is, How it works

Hair testing has gained recognition as a robust method for identifying alcohol and drug use. Hair retains a prolonged record of substance consumption by encapsulating biomarkers within the growing hair fiber. When sourced near the scalp, it can offer a detection span of up to roughly three months for alcohol and substances. The collection of hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for transportation.

A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil), will yield 100mg, which is optimal for testing and validation. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or panels exceeding ten, a 150mg sample is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale for specimen measurement is suggested. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair is suitable. "Head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types (such as facial or axillary).

Process Overview

The principal stages in laboratory drug test processing include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial phase where the sample is introduced into the laboratory's records. This process verifies the sample's sealing and proper shipping, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening offers a preliminary evaluation for drug presence. Despite its cost-efficiency for eliminating drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal acceptability. Samples testing presumptively positive in Screening necessitate further confirmation.

Upon a presumptively positive Screening outcome, more hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are retrieved from hair at notably lower concentrations compared to alternatives (like urine or saliva), underscoring the complexity of hair drug testing.

Any positive screening result undergoes Confirmation using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Prior to confirmation, presumptive positive samples are cleansed as required. The comprehensive laboratory workflow, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is supervised under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and is accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Extended detection window: Hair tests identify drug use up to 90 days, while urine tests offer a shorter detection period.
High resistance to tampering: Hair drug tests are challenging to manipulate, enhancing result accuracy.
Detects usage patterns: It reveals drug consumption trends over time, not just recent activities.

Limitations:

Inability to detect recent use: A span of 5-7 days is necessary before drugs show up in hair tests.
Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs than other testing methods.
Result variability: Factors like hair color and individual growth rates can impact drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests," the test examines strands, not the follicle beneath the skin.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Sherman, TX, hair follicle testing offers several advantages over urine tests. Benefits of Hair Testing:

Extended Detection Period: While urine tests may only identify recent drug use, hair testing provides evidence of substance use up to 90 days prior.
Reliability: Hair testing is less susceptible to alterations or tampering, ensuring accuracy.

These factors make hair testing a superior choice in many scenarios.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Sherman, TX, offers an Extended Detection Window:

Historical Substance Use: The ability to detect drug use up to 90 days back provides employers with comprehensive insights.
Thorough Screening: This method ensures that occasional and long-term substance use is identified, assisting in making well-rounded employment decisions.

Such detailed insights make hair testing invaluable for comprehensive substance history evaluations.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Ensuring Tamper-Resistant Testing: Hair follicle tests in Sherman, TX, significantly minimize the risk of sample manipulation.

Secure Sample Collection: The observed collection process and the nature of hair samples diminish opportunities for adulteration.
Reliable Results: This method delivers unwavering results, supporting fair and accurate evaluations.

It's a robust defense against fraudulent test results.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient testing is easily accessible in Sherman, TX, thanks to our Nationwide Testing Network:

Local and Nationwide Access: Our numerous centers across the country guarantee hassle-free testing options.
Effortless Process: Streamlined procedures ensure swift and easy access to drug testing services whenever needed.

Such accessibility ensures testing isn’t a logistical challenge.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Sherman, TX, our Simple, Confidential Process for hair follicle testing emphasizes privacy and ease of use.

Confidential Ordering: Clients can schedule tests privately, safeguarding personal information.
Easy Process: Clear instructions make the testing procedure straightforward and hassle-free.

Assurance in client privacy ensures that results remain discreet and protected.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Our services in Sherman, TX, stand out with Affordable Pricing and Quick Turnaround:

Competitive Rates: Our pricing is designed to provide value to businesses of all sizes.
Rapid Processing: Efficient service delivery minimizes waiting times, offering results quickly.

This mix of affordability and speed keeps us a preferred choice among companies.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The speed and accuracy of hair follicle drug tests are transforming drug testing procedures in Sherman, TX. Providing Fast, Accurate Results:

Precision Detection: Hair tests can identify a broader spectrum of substances with greater accuracy compared to traditional methods.
Timely Outcomes: Quick processing times enable employers to make informed decisions promptly.

This reliability is crucial for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace environment.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Hair follicle testing in Sherman, TX, enhances Compliance and Peace of Mind:

Policy Adherence: Ensures companies remain compliant with drug-free workplace policies.
Safety Assurance: Reducing legal risks mitigates liabilities and enhances workplace safety.

Employers can feel confident with hair testing’s ability to maintain a drug-free environment.