A hair analysis is a laboratory screening test that is used to detect the level of minerals and trace elements present in an individual’s system. The procedure is done by taking a sample of a person’s hair, which is typically taken from the back of the neck. The sample is sent to a laboratory. If you are thinking about undergoing a hair mineral analysis, here are some of the things that your test results will reveal.

Mineral Content

The test determines values for many minerals and is useful to many health care providers such as nutrition consultants, chiropractors, physicians, and others who factor in the information from the analysis into their diagnosis.

General Condition

The test helps doctors learn more about your general state of nutrition and health, as it determines whether you have too much or too little of specific nutrients and minerals. The test can provide additional proof in cases of severe mineral deficiency or mineral imbalance. If that happens, your doctor can prescribe the proper course of treatment to take.

Poisoning

Hair analysis can also be used to check if there are high levels of poison in your system. The condition is commonly seen in patients with high concentrations of heavy metals in the body, such as lead, arsenic, and mercury, the Medicine Michigan says. However, hair analysis is not the only type of testing used to determine these outcomes. It must be used in conjunction with the patient’s symptoms as well as other laboratory exams.

Drug Use

When the hair samples are taken close to the root, test results can determine what drugs were used up to about three months before the person has taken the test. That’s why some people use the exam to check for any signs of drug use or exposure to chemicals that have occurred in the last few months. This is why many prefer hair analysis over urine testing because urine testing can only show signs of drug use in the last several days, the WebMD says.

How to Prepare

If you want to get a hair analysis test done, look for a laboratory that offers that service. For a more convenient approach, try out online services. Meaning, you’ll only need to download a form from the site and send your sample to the lab. Make sure you follow the specific instructions that the lab sends you. Some will also ask you to sign a consent form that says you understand the possible risks that come with the test. If you have any concerns, though, talk to a doctor. Also, a little more research on what you’ll need to collect the samples properly and how much the service will cost will help you decide whether to go through with the test or not.

How to Collect Samples

Before the analysis can start, the hair sample must be collected. That will fall on you. The samples must be taken from a specific part of your body, often the back of the scalp by the neck. Choose hair that is closest to the skin or scalp, especially those that have recently grown to ensure that the data is accurate.