What preparation is needed before a hair mineral test?
Written by
Leilani Ibeh
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Careful preparation for hair mineral analysis prevents contamination and increases the likelihood of reproducible results. Adhering to rigid protocols removes external factors that may interfere with the readings. These steps will help keep your hair's innate mineral structure to ensure meaningful readings.
Chemical Treatment Ban
- Discontinue all dyes, bleaches, and perms 30 days before sampling
- Avoid keratin treatments and chemical straighteners
- Residual chemicals alter mineral concentrations significantly
Hygiene Protocol
- Switch to additive-free shampoos 14 days prior
- Wash hair every 72 hours with purified water
- Avoid conditioners and styling products completely
Environmental Precautions
- Stop swimming in chlorinated pools 2 weeks before
- Avoid ocean water exposure for 14 days
- Wear protective headgear in polluted areas
Document every product used during the preparation period. Maintain a detailed log including brand names and application dates. This record helps technicians identify potential contaminants that may affect your results.
Gather 3-inch strands from the posterior area of the scalp with stainless steel scissors, avoiding the roots and tips of the hair. Store the samples in paper envelopes (not plastic). Submit as soon as possible, as environmental exposure is a relatively small risk.
Understand that preparation strictness directly correlates with result reliability. Labs cannot compensate for contaminated samples. Your commitment over the next 30 days determines the diagnostic value of the test.
Read the full article: Understanding Hair Mineral Analysis Secrets
