Hair has the unique ability to concentrate toxic heavy metals and essential minerals making hair analysis a useful screening tool. Unlike blood and urine, hair acts as a storage depot for elements. The growing hair follicle is richly supplied with blood vessels. The blood that bathes the follicle is the transport medium for both essential and potentially toxic elements. These elements are then incorporated into the growing hair protein during keratinisation. In this way, element concentrations in the hair reflect concentrations in other body tissues.
Numerous papers discuss the accuracy and efficacy of hair testing, particularly for toxic metals such as mercury.
An E.P.A. study concluded that hair is a “meaningful and representative tissue for biological monitoring of most of the toxic metals.” At the same time, hair testing should be regarded as a “screen”, since levels may also reflect external contamination.
Hair analysis is noninvasive, inexpensive, and allows for investigation of nutrient/toxic interactions. Studies confirm that long term exposure to toxic elements/minerals can progressively impair various enzymatic and neurologic processes, leading to a variety of health conditions. Systems affected by toxic element accumulation include
- Gastrointestinal
- Neurological
- Cardiovascular
- Urological
- Fertility
What is being measured
Toxic Elements
- Lead
- Mercury
- Cadmium
- Arsenic
- Aluminium
Nutritional Elements
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Iron
- Copper
- Manganese
- Zinc
- Chromium
- Selenium
- Phosphorous
Additional Elements
- Nickel
- Cobalt
- Molybdenum
- Lithium
Age range this test is suitable for
This test is suitable for any age as long as a sufficient sample can be provided.
Specimen requirements
125mg of hair (1 heaping tablespoon)
Before Taking this Test
Do not carry out this test for 2 months after a perm, bleach or colour treatment has been applied to the hair.
Use only Johnson & Johnson® baby shampoo for 2 weeks (if possible)
See instructions inside test kit for details
Turn-Around Time
21-28 Days
A full interpretation guide is provided.