What is a Hair Follicle Drug Test?

Do you need to know what a hair follicle drug test is? Have you been asked to take one in a professional capacity or for something else? Either way, knowing what a hair follicle drug test is and how it works is important. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about hair follicle drug tests, including what they are, why they’re used, how the tests are conducted, and what the results mean. So read on to find out more about this type of drug test and how it can affect you.

What is a Hair Follicle Drug Test?

A hair follicle drug test is a type of drug testing that uses a sample of a person’s hair to detect the presence of drugs and other substances in their system. The test is meant to detect drugs consumed in the past 90 days, as drug metabolites are stored in the hair follicle and remain there for up to 90 days. Hair follicle drug testing is a reliable and accurate way to screen for drug use, as it is difficult to tamper with the results.

How Does a Hair Follicle Drug Test Work?

Hair follicle drug tests work by collecting a sample of hair from the scalp, usually about the thickness of a pencil. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for testing. In the laboratory, the sample is washed in order to remove any external contaminants, such as hair dye or styling products. Then, the sample is tested for the presence of drug metabolites, which are the byproducts of drugs that are stored in the hair follicle.

The drug metabolites that are tested for depend on the drug panel ordered by the employer or other organization administering the test. Most drug panels include marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, and opiates. The results of the test are then reported back to the employer or other organization.

What Are the Advantages of Hair Follicle Drug Tests?

Hair follicle drug tests have several advantages over other types of drug tests. For one, they are more difficult to tamper with than urine or saliva tests, as it is difficult to alter the results of a hair follicle test. Additionally, hair follicle tests can detect drug use from up to 90 days in the past, making them more accurate than other types of drug tests.

Finally, hair follicle tests are relatively non-invasive, as only a small sample of hair is required. This makes them less intrusive than urine or saliva tests, which require the donor to provide a sample of their bodily fluids.

What Are the Disadvantages of Hair Follicle Drug Tests?

The major disadvantage of hair follicle drug tests is that they can be expensive. Additionally, they require a longer processing time than other types of drug tests, as the sample must be sent to a laboratory for testing.

Another potential disadvantage is that hair follicle tests may not be as accurate as other types of drug tests. This is because they require a larger sample of hair than other tests, and the results may be affected by external factors, such as hair dye or styling products.

How Can I Prepare for a Hair Follicle Drug Test?

The best way to prepare for a hair follicle drug test is to avoid using drugs. If you do use drugs, make sure that you are not consuming them within the 90-day window prior to the test. Additionally, you should avoid using any hair styling products, such as hair dye or hairspray, that may alter the results of the test.

It is also important to make sure that the sample used for the test is from the scalp and not from other parts of the body, as this may affect the results. Finally, it is important to make sure that the sample is collected properly, as an improperly collected sample can affect the accuracy of the results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Hair Follicle Drug Test?

A hair follicle drug test is a laboratory-based test that screens for the presence of drugs within a person’s hair follicles. Hair follicles are taken from the head, or sometimes other parts of the body, and analyzed for the presence of drug metabolites. Hair follicle drug tests can detect drugs used up to 90 days prior to testing.

How Does a Hair Follicle Drug Test Work?

A hair follicle drug test works by taking a sample of hair, typically from the back of the head, and analyzing it for traces of drug metabolites. The sample is taken to a laboratory and the hair is separated from the follicle. The follicle is then washed and the drug metabolites are extracted and analyzed using sensitive analytical equipment. The test results are then compared to the cutoff levels determined by the laboratory and a positive or negative result is reported.

What Substances Can a Hair Follicle Drug Test Detect?

A hair follicle drug test can detect the presence of drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, opiates, PCP, and other drugs. It can also detect the presence of alcohol.

What is the Accuracy of a Hair Follicle Drug Test?

A hair follicle drug test is considered to be highly accurate. Studies have shown that it is more than 99% accurate in detecting drug use up to 90 days prior to the test.

What is the Turnaround Time for a Hair Follicle Drug Test?

The turnaround time for a hair follicle drug test is usually 1-2 business days, although this can vary depending on the laboratory and the type of test being performed.

What is the Cost of a Hair Follicle Drug Test?

The cost of a hair follicle drug test can vary depending on the type of test being performed and the laboratory conducting the test. Generally, the cost ranges from $50 to $150 per test.

Hair Follicle Drug Test—Pros & Cons, Myths, and How It Works

A Hair Follicle Drug Test is a reliable and accurate way to detect the presence of drugs in a person’s system. The test, which involves a sample of the person’s hair, can detect drug use up to 90 days prior to the test, making it a powerful tool for employers and law enforcement. By providing a quick and effective method of testing for drug use, hair follicle drug tests are an important component in the fight against drug abuse.