Hair and Nail Sample Collection for Lab Testing
Correct hair and nail sample collection is an important part of obtaining reliable laboratory results. The way a sample is collected, handled, labeled, and submitted can affect its suitability for analysis, particularly when testing involves toxicology, drugs, chemicals, or suspected exposure.
This guide explains how to collect a hair sample and nail sample for laboratory testing, what materials are needed, and how to protect sample integrity during collection and submission. It is intended to help individuals, attorneys, medical professionals, investigators, and other professionals understand the basic collection process.
Hair Sample Collection Instructions
A hair sample can be used for certain types of toxicology testing, drug testing, and chemical or toxin exposure analysis. Because substances may become incorporated into the hair shaft as it grows, hair can provide information about exposure over a period of time.
For specialized [forensic toxicology testing], the appropriate sample type and collection method can depend on the substance being investigated and the purpose of the analysis.
Before You Collect a Hair Sample
Before collecting a hair specimen:
- Confirm the required collection method with the laboratory.
- Consider the timing of the suspected exposure or incident, as hair testing is generally not intended to identify very recent exposure.
- Take a dated photograph of the donor during collection when identification documentation is required.
- Avoid unnecessary handling of the sample after collection.
- If the testing may be used for legal, forensic, or insurance purposes, confirm whether a chain-of-custody collection is required.
Detection periods can vary based on factors such as the substance being tested, hair growth, sample length, cosmetic treatment, and laboratory methodology. Contact the laboratory if timing is an important part of your case.
Hair Sample Collection Tools Required
Depending on the laboratory’s collection requirements, you may need:
- Disposable gloves
- Sharp scissors cleaned with alcohol
- Alcohol swabs
- Clean white #10 envelope
- Aluminum foil
- Private or chain-of-custody collection form
- Appropriate shipping materials
Use clean collection materials and follow the laboratory’s instructions to reduce the risk of contamination or misidentification.
How to Collect a Hair Sample for Testing
- Collect full-length head hair strands close to the scalp.
- Do not include the hair root or follicle unless the laboratory specifically instructs you to do so.
- Collect the amount of hair required by the laboratory. A pencil-diameter bundle may be required for some testing procedures.
- Keep the scalp end identified and wrap the sample in aluminum foil when instructed to preserve the orientation of the hair.
- Place the wrapped specimen into a clean envelope or approved collection container.
- Seal and label the sample according to the laboratory’s submission requirements.
- For chain-of-custody testing, complete all required documentation and have the appropriate witness sign and date the seal when required.
Hair Growth Timeline for Testing
Hair grows continuously, but the rate can vary from person to person. A commonly used estimate is approximately ½ inch of growth per month, although individual growth rates may differ.
For this reason, hair length should not automatically be interpreted as an exact exposure timeline. Laboratory interpretation can depend on the substance being tested, the sample characteristics, the testing method, and the circumstances of the case.
A laboratory can help determine whether a hair specimen is appropriate for the period of exposure being investigated.
Nail Sample Collection Guide
A nail sample may be useful for certain toxicology and chemical exposure investigations, particularly when a longer-term specimen is being considered.
Nail testing requirements can vary depending on the type of analysis, so confirm the required sample amount and collection procedure with the testing laboratory before collection.
Nail Sample Collection Tools Required
Common collection materials may include:
- Nail clippers cleaned with alcohol
- Acetone nail polish remover
- Alcohol swabs
- Disposable gloves
- A clean sample container
- Chain-of-custody or private testing documentation, when applicable
The laboratory may provide specific collection containers or instructions. Follow those requirements whenever they differ from general collection guidance.
How to Collect Nail Samples for Lab Testing
- Remove nail polish or other coatings before collection when required.
- Clean the collection tools according to the laboratory’s instructions.
- Clip the fingernails or toenails as directed by the laboratory.
- Collect the required nail material from the appropriate nails.
- If scraping is part of the laboratory’s approved collection procedure, collect the material carefully without introducing foreign substances.
- Place the clippings and any required scrapings into a clean, suitable container.
- Securely close, label, and document the specimen according to the laboratory’s submission requirements.
Hair and Nail Collection for Toxicology Testing
Hair and nail specimens may be considered for investigations involving:
- Suspected exposure that occurred weeks or months earlier
- Repeated or ongoing exposure
- Certain environmental or occupational exposures
- Drug or toxic substance investigations
- Situations where a longer-term specimen may provide useful information
The most appropriate specimen depends on the substance being investigated, the timing of the suspected exposure, the reason for testing, and the laboratory method being used.
Hair and nail testing should not be treated as a universal substitute for blood, urine, or other specimen types. A laboratory professional can help determine which specimen is appropriate for the specific testing question..
Chain of Custody and Sample Integrity
A documented chain of custody is especially important when test results may be used in legal, forensic, employment, insurance, or other formal proceedings.
Chain-of-custody procedures help document the collection, identification, handling, transfer, and receipt of a specimen. This documentation helps establish that the sample tested is the same sample that was collected.
A chain of custody may include:
- Donor identification
- Collection date and time
- Collector or witness information
- Sample identification
- Sealing and transfer documentation
- Records of individuals who handled the specimen
The Carlson Company offers private and chain-of-custody testing options depending on the testing purpose. Learn more about chain of custody procedures before collecting a sample for a case that requires documented specimen handling.
Why Proper Sample Collection Matters
Accurate laboratory analysis begins with an appropriate specimen. Errors during collection or handling may result in:
- Insufficient sample quantity
- Contamination concerns
- Identification problems
- Delays in analysis
- The need for recollection
Using clean collection materials, following laboratory instructions, documenting the specimen correctly, and selecting the appropriate testing method can help protect sample integrity.
Submit Your Hair or Nail Samples with Confidence
The Carlson Company provides laboratory testing services for toxicology, drug, chemical, and toxin exposure investigations. Our team can help you understand collection requirements and determine what information is needed before a sample is submitted.
Before collecting your specimen, contact our team if you have questions about:
- The appropriate sample type
- Sample quantity
- Collection timing
- Hair or nail testing
- Private versus chain-of-custody testing
- Sample labeling and submission requirements
Call The Carlson Company at +1 866-889-3410 or contact our laboratory team for guidance before submitting your sample.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a hair sample be used if the hair has been dyed or chemically treated?
Hair treatments such as coloring, bleaching, perming, or other chemical processing can affect the characteristics of a hair specimen and may influence testing or interpretation. Tell the laboratory about any known hair treatments before testing so the laboratory can determine whether the specimen is suitable.
Is a hair sample better than a urine sample for toxicology testing?
Neither specimen is universally better. Hair and urine provide different types of information and have different detection characteristics. The appropriate specimen depends on what substance is being investigated, when exposure may have occurred, and the purpose of the test.
Can body hair be used instead of head hair?
Body hair may sometimes be considered when sufficient head hair is unavailable, but it should not automatically be treated as equivalent to scalp hair. Collection and interpretation can differ depending on the specimen source. Always confirm with the laboratory before collecting body hair.
How should a hair or nail sample be stored before it is sent to the laboratory?
Keep the specimen clean, dry, securely packaged, and clearly identified. Avoid exposing it to unnecessary moisture, contamination, or handling. Follow the laboratory’s specific packaging and shipping instructions, particularly when chain-of-custody documentation is required.
What should I do if I am unsure which sample to collect?
Do not collect a specimen based solely on general online instructions if the testing is connected to a specific exposure, legal matter, or forensic investigation.
