Selection of Scissors: Opt for high-grade stainless steel scissors that are thoroughly clean. Avoid using scissors that are rusted or dirty, as they can contaminate the hair sample.
Cutting the Hair Sample: Carefully cut a small amount of hair from the back of your head, as close to the scalp as possible. This area reflects the body’s most recent metabolic activities. Aim for thin strands from 2-3 different spots for a comprehensive sample.
Ensure your hair is completely dry; wet or damp hair may develop mould during transit to the laboratory.
Sample Size: The ideal length for the hair sample is no more than 4 cm (approximately 1.5 inches), with a weight around 1 gram (comparable to a full tablespoon of hair). Given that hair typically grows at a rate of 1 cm per month, this length provides a recent metabolic snapshot. Insufficient sample size may cause delays, so err on the side of providing slightly more.
Natural Hair Only: If your hair is long, use only the portion nearest to your scalp and discard the rest. Do not send hair that has been chemically treated (dyed, bleached, or permed); as only natural, untreated hair yields the most accurate results.
Shampoo Usage: Steer clear of mineral-based shampoos, particularly those designed for anti-dandruff, as they can skew the results by depositing minerals like zinc onto the hair. For best results, avoid such shampoos for at least three washes prior to taking the sample.
Alternative Hair Sources: If head hair is unavailable due to conditions like alopecia, pubic hair can be used as an alternative. However, do not mix hair types in the sample; maintain consistency by using hair from a single area.
Sample Packaging: Place the hair sample in a new paper envelope; avoid using recycled, aluminum, or plastic envelopes to prevent contamination and moisture retention, which can compromise the analysis.
Clearly label the envelope with your full name, sex, age, and the type of sample (head or pubic).
Please do not use staples to seal the envelope, as this can lead to metal contamination. Note that a hair collection kit is not provided; you are required to collect and send your hair sample directly to us.
Post-Submission Care: Avoid cutting your hair until you receive your results, in case an additional sample is required for further analysis.
Turnaround Time: Anticipate a processing period of 14-28 working days from when the clinic receives your sample. Account for potential postal delays, estimated at 7-10 days within Australia.
Insufficient sample size may cause delays, so err on the side of providing slightly more.
