Hair samples submitted through BioTestMe are analyzed using state-of-the-art laboratory instrumentation, including high-precision inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).
This technology allows ARL to measure mineral and trace element levels at extremely small concentrations, often at parts-per-million or parts-per-billion levels, enabling highly sensitive mineral detection.
Using these advanced analytical methods, the laboratory evaluates a panel of essential minerals and toxic elements present within the hair sample.
Hair tissue mineral analysis provides insight into mineral patterns that developed over time.
As hair grows, minerals circulating in the body are incorporated into the hair shaft. Because hair grows gradually, a sample cut close to the scalp can reflect mineral activity over roughly three to four months, offering a broader view of metabolic patterns compared with tests that measure only momentary levels.
This makes HTMA a useful tool for observing trends in:
These patterns can provide valuable context when evaluating nutrition, lifestyle, and environmental influences on health.
Hair tissue mineral analysis is considered a non-invasive tissue screening method that has been used internationally for biological monitoring of trace elements and toxic metals.
Unlike many tests that require blood draws, HTMA requires only a small hair sample collected near the scalp, making the process simple and convenient for at-home collection.
ARL follows strict laboratory procedures designed to preserve the integrity of each sample.
For example, the laboratory does not wash hair samples prior to analysis, a practice that research has shown can remove water-soluble elements and affect results. In a study evaluating commercial laboratories, the facilities that avoided washing samples demonstrated significantly stronger reliability.
These procedures help maintain accurate mineral readings and ensure consistent laboratory analysis.
While ARL performs the laboratory mineral analysis, BioTestMe focuses on translating these results into meaningful insights.
All HTMA reports are reviewed using an interpretation framework led by Dr. Mandy, DCN, ensuring that laboratory findings are evaluated through a functional health perspective.
This combination of advanced laboratory testing and clinical interpretation allows BioTestMe to transform complex mineral data into understandable health insights.
BioTestMe uncovers the root cause of your symptoms, so you can finally fix what's holding you back.
BioTestMe staff are not medical doctors. Nothing here is intended to discourage anyone from seeking or following the advice of a medical doctor. This is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any diseases and isn't a substitute for standard medical care.
