Hair Analysis
[hairanalysis]

A hair analysis is an inexpensive and noninvasive means of measuring elements.

To understand how hair retains elements, it is important to know the structure of hair and how hair protein is synthesized and traps minerals.

The hair shaft is a filament formed from the matrix of cells at the bottom of the hair follicle deep in the epidermal epithelium. Each follicle is a miniature organ that contains both muscular and glandular components (see figure 1).

Human hair is 80% protein, 15% water and small amounts of lipids and inorganic materials. The material content of the hair is 0.25% to 0.95% on a dry ash basis. Of the approximately 100,000 hairs in the average human scalp, 10% are in the resting phase. During the growth phase, the scalp follicles produce hair at a rate of 0.2 to 0.5 mm/day - or about 1 cm each month.

The growing hair follicle is richly supplied with blood vessels, and the blood that bathes the follicle is the transport medium for both essential and toxic elements. As these elements reach hair follicles, they are incorporated into the growing hair protein. Unlike other body tissues, hair is a metabolic end product that incorporates elements into its structure while growing. As hair approaches the skin surface, it undergoes a hardening process, or keratinization, and the elements accumulated during its formation are sealed into the protein structure of the hair. Because of the exposure of hair follicles to the blood supply during growth, elemental concentrations of the hair reflect concentrations in other body tissues.

Click here to see a sample Hair Analysis

How much hair is required?

Only about one heaping tablespoon of hair is needed. Hair is generally cut at the nape of the neck, and the hair closest to the scalp is used. Because tiny amounts are taken from several places, it is nearly impossible to notice hair was taken.

When is hair analysis the wrong choice?

Hair is subjected to external contamination, particularly from hair products such as bleaches, perms, or dyes. Therefore, hair treated within the past two months will not provide accurate information.

References:
80. Katz S, and Chatt A. Hair analysis: applications in the biomedical and environmental sciences. New York: VCH Publishers Inc.,1988:1-16.

Send Hair Sample (along with a print out of your order information after checkout completion) to:
Health Stores
Attention: Hair Analysis
2120 Las Palmas Dr. Suite E Carlsbad, CA 92011

Call (800) 578-5939
(M-F 6am to 6pm PST Sat. & Sun. 8am to 3pm)