Collection: Hair Drug Test Kits

Hair drug test kit

Hair drug tests are a type of drug screening method that analyses hair samples to detect the presence of illicit substances. Here’s how they work and what to expect:

How a hair drug test works

• Sample collection: A small sample of hair (typically 1.5 inches long) is taken, usually from the head. In cases where head hair isn’t available, body hair can be used.
• Drug detection: Drugs and their metabolites circulate in the bloodstream and can be incorporated into the hair follicle as the hair grows. Once in the hair, traces of drug use can be detected.
• Testing period: Hair drug tests can typically detect drug use within a 90-day window because hair grows at an average rate of about 0.5 inches per month. The 1.5-inch sample represents approximately 3 months of hair growth.

Substances that can be detected by a lab drug test on a hair sample

Hair drug tests can detect several types of drugs, including:

• Marijuana (THC)
• Cocaine
• Opiates (heroin, morphine, codeine)
• Amphetamines (including methamphetamine)
• MDMA (ecstasy)
• Phencyclidine (PCP)

Advantages of hair drug testing

• Long Detection Period: Hair tests can identify drug use over a longer period than other methods, like urine or saliva tests, which only cover a few days to a few weeks.
• Non-invasive: The sample collection is easy and doesn’t require bodily fluids.
• Hard to cheat: Hair samples are difficult to alter or replace, making it a reliable drug testing method.

Limitations

• Cost: Hair drug tests are generally more expensive than other forms of drug testing.
• Delayed detection: Drugs take a few days to be detectable in hair, as they need to grow out from the follicle. This means recent drug use (within the last few days) might not be detected.
• Potential for bias: Hair texture, colour, and treatment (e.g., dyeing) may slightly impact the hair drug test results, although modern tests are designed to minimise these effects.

Common uses of hair drug testing

• Legal Situations: Courts may order hair drug tests in child custody cases, probation monitoring, or other legal situations where drug use is a concern.
• Employment screening: Hair drug testing is not in common use in the UK for workplace drug testing. Some employers may use hair tests during pre-employment screenings or random drug testing programs.

Collecting a hair sample for a drug test

Collecting a hair sample for a drug test involves a specific procedure to ensure that the sample is sufficient and accurate. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how it’s typically done:

Step 1: Choose the collection site

• Head hair: Hair is usually taken from the scalp. The ideal sample length is about 1.5 inches, which provides a detection window of roughly 90 days.
• Body hair: If scalp hair is not available (due to baldness, very short hair, etc.), body hair (from arms, legs, chest, etc.) can be used as an alternative. Body hair grows more slowly and can sometimes represent a longer detection window.

Step 2: Ensure clean collection tools

• Tools needed: Scissors, a collection foil or envelope, and gloves. The tools should be sterile to prevent contamination of the sample.
• Gloves: The person collecting the hair should wear gloves to avoid contaminating the sample with skin oils or environmental substances.

Step 3: Determine the amount of hair needed

• Hair sample size and length: Read the instructions provided by the lab for guidance, but usually you’ll need around 100-120 strands of hair to get an accurate result. This is roughly the diameter of a pencil (about 0.5 grams). The hair should be cut as close to the scalp as possible.

Step 4: Cut the hair

• Where to cut: The hair should be cut from the crown or back of the head to avoid leaving a visible bald patch. The person collecting the sample should take small amounts of hair from different spots to avoid thinning out one area.
• Orientation: Make sure to mark which end of the hair was closest to the scalp, as that part is analysed first for recent drug use.

Step 5: Package the hair sample

• Secure the sample: Place the hair sample in a foil or collection envelope provided by the hair drug testing lab. Some labs provide special collection kits with instructions.
• Label the sample: Ensure the hair sample is properly labeled with the testee's information, the date, and collection location. Follow the lab’s guidelines for any additional paperwork or documentation.

Step 6: Transport the Sample

• Transport protocol: The sample should be stored in a cool, dry place and sent to the lab according to the guidelines provided. Often, there are secure bags or containers provided to ensure the sample is not tampered with during transit.

Tips for accurate hair sample collection:

• Avoid contaminants: Make sure the person’s hair is clean and dry before collection. Hair treated with chemicals like bleach or dyes may still be tested, but it’s good to inform the lab if such treatments have been used.
• Scalp hair preferred: Body hair may provide less consistent results due to variations in growth cycles, so scalp hair is preferred whenever possible.

Hair drug test collection is designed to be simple yet controlled to avoid any contamination or sample tampering. 

How long does a hair test kit detect drug use for?

A hair drug test kit allows you to screen for long term drug use ie 1-3 months depending on the length of the hair.

Which drugs can be tested for on a hair drug test?

Hair drug test kits are currently available for the following drugs:

In the UK, a hair drug test can detect a wide range of substances over a period of up to 90 days. Commonly tested drugs include:

Standard panels:

• Cannabis (THC)
• Cocaine
• Opiates (Heroin, Morphine, Codeine)
• Amphetamines (Speed)
• Methamphetamines (Crystal Meth)
• Ecstasy (MDMA)
• Benzodiazepines (Diazepam, Temazepam, etc.)

Expanded panels may also include:

• Ketamine
• Synthetic Cannabinoids ("Spice")
• Methadone
• Tramadol
• Fentanyl
• LSD
• PCP (Phencyclidine)
• (smoking or nicotine)

Some testing providers allow custom panels, depending on specific requirements.