Hair and Nail Sample Collection for Lab Testing
Correct hair and nail sample collection is critical for reliable toxicology and drug testing results. Improper handling, contamination, or incorrect sample size can impact accuracy and may require resubmission.
This guide explains how to collect a hair sample and nail sample for lab testing, including toxicology and toxin exposure analysis. The Carlson Company provides this step-by-step resource to help individuals, attorneys, medical professionals, and investigators ensure samples meet laboratory and chain-of-custody requirements.
If you have questions at any stage, our team is available to guide you before submission.
Hair Sample Collection Instructions
Hair sample collection is commonly used for toxicology testing, toxin exposure analysis, and drug testing, as substances become incorporated into the hair shaft over time.
Before You Collect a Hair Sample
- Do not collect hair until at least 30 days after the suspected exposure or incident
- Hair testing is not intended for very recent exposure
- We strongly recommend taking a dated photograph of the donor during collection for identification purposes
Hair Sample Collection Tools Required
- Disposable gloves
- Sharp scissors cleaned with alcohol
- Alcohol swabs
- Clean white #10 envelope
- Aluminum foil
- Private or chain of custody form
- Shipping envelope (UPS or equivalent)
How to Collect a Hair Sample for Testing
- Collect full-length head hair strands from the scalp line
- Do not include hair roots or follicles
- Required quantity: approximately the diameter of a pencil (¼ inch)
- Wrap the scalp end tightly in aluminum foil to preserve chronological order
- Place the sample into a clean envelope, seal it, and secure with tape
- The witness should sign and date across the seal
Hair Growth Timeline for Testing
- Average hair growth: ½ inch per month
- ½ inch = ~30 days
- 2 inches = ~4 months of exposure history
This allows laboratory analysts to assess substance exposure over a defined timeline.
Nail Sample Collection Guide
Nail sample collection supports toxicology analysis and chemical exposure analysis, particularly for longer-term exposure patterns.
Nail Sample Collection Tools Required
- Nail clippers cleaned with alcohol
- Acetone nail polish remover
- Alcohol swabs
- Disposable gloves
- Clean sample container (new prescription bottle recommended)
- Chain of custody or private testing form
How to Collect Nail Samples for Lab Testing
- Remove all nail polish using acetone before collection
- Clip all fingernails or toenails evenly
- Scrape the surface of each nail to collect residue
- Place all clippings and scrapings into a clean container
- Secure and label according to submission instructions
Hair and Nail Collection for Toxicology Testing
Hair and nail specimens are commonly used when:
- Exposure occurred weeks or months ago
- Chronic or repeated exposure is suspected
- Environmental, occupational, or unknown chemical exposure is involved
Hair and nail testing does not require roots or follicles, and full-length samples provide the most accurate exposure history.
Chain of Custody and Sample Integrity
Maintaining a chain of custody is essential for legal, forensic, or insurance-related cases. Proper documentation ensures:
- Sample authenticity
- Accurate identification
- Admissibility in legal proceedings
The Carlson Company provides both private and chain-of-custody testing options depending on your needs.
Why Proper Sample Collection Matters
Improper hair or nail sample collection can lead to:
- Inconclusive results
- Delays in testing
- Additional costs for recollection
Following these hair and nail collection procedures helps ensure accurate analysis and reliable reporting.
Submit Your Hair or Nail Samples with Confidence
The Carlson Company is a trusted laboratory specializing in toxicology and chemical exposure testing. Our experts review every sample to ensure it meets analytical requirements before testing begins.
If you are unsure about:
- Sample quantity
- Collection timing
- Chain of custody requirements
Our team is ready to assist.
Call The Carlson Company at 866-889-3410
Or contact us by email for guidance before submitting your samples
