A method of detecting drug use history, this analysis examines a small sample of hair to identify the presence of specific substances. It achieves this by analyzing the drug metabolites embedded within the hair shaft, providing a longer detection window compared to other testing methods like urine or blood analysis. For instance, this type of test can reveal drug use patterns over the past several months, depending on the length of the hair sample taken.
The significance of this testing lies in its extended detection window and resistance to adulteration. Unlike urine tests, where results can be easily manipulated, a hair sample offers a more reliable and tamper-proof assessment. This makes it particularly valuable in situations requiring accurate historical data of substance use, such as legal proceedings, child custody cases, and certain employment screenings. The application emerged as advancements in forensic toxicology allowed for more precise and sensitive analysis of hair samples.