Once a hair sample has been collected and securely packaged, it makes its way to us. For the person providing it, this can feel like a waiting game — how can just a few strands of hair show months of drug or alcohol use? At Cansford Labs, every sample is handled with precision from start to finish. Our process is designed to give clear, reliable results that stand up to scrutiny.
From collection to booking in
Our nationwide collector network can reach anywhere in the UK within 48 hours. Each sample is sealed with a tamper-evident label and sent directly to our Cardiff lab, maintaining a clear chain of custody throughout.
When it arrives, our team checks the packaging and seal before logging it into our system. It’s then barcoded and matched to the donor details and substances requested for testing. From that point on, the sample is traceable at every stage.
Preparing the sample
Once logged in, the hair is aligned to show which end was closest to the scalp — the starting point for analysis. Because hair typically grows about one centimetre per month, each centimetre reflects roughly one month of history.
Depending on what’s needed, we’ll either cut the sample into sections or analyse it as a whole:
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Sectional testing examines each centimetre individually, showing changes in use over time.
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Overview testing looks at the full length of hair as one piece, giving an overall picture of use.
This careful preparation ensures results reflect the right timeframe and context.
Washing and wash analysis
Before testing, each hair sample is washed to remove any external drug deposits that may have been picked up from the environment. The liquid wash sample is then analysed separately to detect any drugs that might be present.
A wash analysis helps to identify external contamination of hair samples and distinguish it from active drug use or passive exposure. Together with the hair strand test results, this helps build a clearer picture of whether a donor has come into contact with drugs — and if that contact was through use or environmental exposure.
Testing and analysis
After washing, the hair is dissolved to create a liquid extract for testing. Using advanced LC–MS/MS technology (liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry), we identify and measure specific drugs or alcohol markers — right down to the picogram level.
This allows us to detect substances and patterns of use stretching back months, depending on the hair length and type of test requested.
Results you can rely on
Once analysis is complete, our scientists interpret the data and prepare clear, easy-to-understand results. Every test includes a Certificate of Analysis as standard, detailing what was found and in what quantities.
When more detail is needed, our reporting scientists can provide an expert report with a formal declaration of results and supporting information.
From collection to reporting, every strand is carefully handled to ensure accurate, trustworthy results — giving you the confidence to make informed decisions.
