Hair drug testing

What are the hair drug test time-frames?

Hair drug testing can effectively detect drug use for up to six months, depending on the length and condition of the hair sample. While longer analysis is possible, this must be specifically stipulated in a court order. We generally recommend a maximum six-month detection window, as older hair samples may deteriorate over time, potentially affecting accuracy.

For reference:

• 1 cm of head hair provides an approximate one-month history of drug use.
• If no head hair is available, body hair can be tested. However, 1 cm of body hair reflects a longer detection period, approximately two to three times longer than head hair.

How Long Before Drugs Appear in Hair?

Once a drug is consumed, it takes an average of 7 to 10 days to break down in the body and move into the hair follicle. From this point, hair drug testing can accurately detect the substance.

Segmented Hair Analysis

Hair samples can be segmented to provide a month-by-month overview of potential drug use. This method is particularly useful for identifying recent abstinence or relapse patterns.

For further technical details on hair growth and drug detection, you can refer to the Society of Hair Testing.

Special Testing for Unique Cases

Additional options are available for specific circumstances, such as spiking incidents. For more details, please call 0800 988 7107 to speak with a Clinical Advisor.

What to Expect at a Hair Drug Testing Appointment

A hair drug test appointment follows a strict chain of custody process to ensure accurate and legally defensible results. Here’s what happens during your appointment:

1. Identity Verification

• The sample donor must provide photographic identification (such as a passport or driving licence).
• The collector confirms the donor’s details and ensures all documentation is completed correctly.

2. Sample Collection

• A hair sample is cut using scissors (or a razor for body hair samples).
• Hair can be collected from the head or body, but head hair is preferred due to its more predictable growth rate.
• If you have concerns about sample collection or hair type limitations, a Clinical Advisor can provide guidance.

3. Tamper-Proof Sealing & Consent

• The sample is sealed, barcoded, and tamper-proofed in your presence.
• You will be required to sign a consent form before the test can proceed.

4. Minimal Hair Requirement

• Only a small amount of hair is required for testing, so the collection site is typically unnoticeable.

5. Results & Reporting

• Your hair drug test report will be issued within three to five working days of sample receipt at the laboratory. In most cases, results are available in just three working days.
• The cost of the test includes the full results package, with no hidden fees.

Where Can You Get a Hair Drug Test?

• Testing is available at our UK-wide sample collection locations.
• Alternatively, a mobile collection officer can visit your location for added convenience.

For more information or to book an appointment, contact 0800 988 7107 to speak with a Clinical Advisor.

How Much Does a Hair Drug Test Cost?

The cost of a hair drug test starts at £266, which includes full laboratory analysis and a legally admissible report.

If additional documentation is required, we also offer an Expert Witness Report starting from £186. This provides a detailed analysis of the results for legal or court proceedings.

All prices include VAT, with no hidden fees.

For a personalised quote or to discuss your specific testing needs, contact 0800 988 7107 to speak with a Clinical Advisor.

What Drugs Can Be Detected in a Hair Drug Test?

Hair drug testing can screen for a wide range of substances. The most commonly tested drug groups include:

• Amphetamines
• Methamphetamines (including Ecstasy/MDMA)
• Benzodiazepines
• Cannabis
• Cocaine
• Methadone
• Opiates (such as heroin, morphine, and codeine)
• Ketamine

Additional drug groups can also be included in the analysis based on specific court orders, workplace policies, or individual requirements. If you require testing for a substance not listed above, please contact 0800 988 7107 to discuss your needs with a Clinical Advisor.

When should the hair drug test be used?

Hair drug testing is ideal in the following circumstances:

• Social Service matters.
• Family Court matters.
• Spiking incidents.
• Evidence of abstinence.

The hair drug test offers a longer and more accurate detection window than urine and saliva laboratory drug testing. So consider these drug tests if you require a shorter detection window.

In addition, we can take extra hair samples for hair alcohol testing. For instance, we can undertake a hair alcohol test in combination with a blood alcohol test. As a result, this will also provide an accurate analysis of past alcohol consumption.

Hair drug testing is also suitable for the workplace. For example, for specialist agencies or in circumstances that need evidence of abstinence.

How can I book an appointment for the hair drug test?

Booking a hair drug test is simple and hassle-free. You can:

• Call us on 0800 988 7107 to speak with our team and schedule your appointment.
• Email us at [email protected], and one of our advisors will get back to you promptly.

Whichever method you choose, our team will guide you through the process and arrange your appointment as quickly as possible.