How Far Back Will a Hair Drug Test Go?

Your hair grows a mere 0.5 inches per month, and this sluggish pace explains why hair drug tests can detect substances in your system over extended periods. Much like tree rings reveal a tree’s history, your hair tells a story about you, including what drugs you’ve used and the intensity and frequency of your use so what should I consider while trying to pass a hair drug screening? 

Given the accurate and longitudinal insight that hair tests provide, hair drug testing has become a frequently used tool in employment, legal, and medical fields. It offers unparalleled insight into an individual’s drug history. So, how far back will a hair drug test go? And what factors might affect the time frame?

Read on and learn more.

How Far Back Will a Hair Drug Test Go?

A hair follicle drug test detects various substances, easily finding standard recreational drugs. Cocaine, opiates, methamphetamines, and THC won’t escape detection. The key distinction between a hair-based test and other types of drug tests is sensitivity. Hair drug tests are remarkably sensitive, detecting both chronic and occasional use.

That’s why they’re preferred in situations requiring a detailed, reliable history of your drug use. When undergoing a hair drug test, testers usually take a head hair sample. Assuming 1.5 inches of growth, that corresponds to a 90-day detection window. Any drugs used in the past three months will be evident in the drug test results.

The Detection Period

Surely, a 3-month detection window is average, but various factors can influence it. For instance, hair growth rates and lengths vary, so longer samples may detect drugs longer. However, many labs only test the recent 1.5 inches, discarding the rest; their methodology isn’t always clear.

Different drugs also affect results. Cocaine and metabolites bind to melanin in hair, making it easily detected. Opiates like heroin and morphine are similar. THC varies; light cannabis use might not show up, while heavier use likely will in a hair test.

Hair Test Controversy

The hair follicle drug test, though accurate, isn’t without controversy. Critics argue it’s prone to bias and error. For instance, the presence of drugs in one’s environment could impact test results; merely being near drug use might cause failure.

Consider a scenario where you’re in a car with people smoking cannabis; the smoke could infiltrate your hair and produce a false positive. Additionally, there’s criticism that the test may be biased against those with darker hair.

Darker hair binds more drug metabolites due to higher melanin content. Consequently, if you possess dark hair, you’re likelier to fail the test than someone with lighter hair.

The Macujo Method

So, how far back will a hair drug test go? That depends on the tools at your disposal. Take the Mike Macujo method, for example.

It involves a specialized shampoo and other treatment products. By adhering to Mike Macujo’s detailed instructions, you can eliminate traces of drugs from your hair.

However, these methods demand strict adherence to instructions. Failure to do so will result in a positive test. Intrigued by this innovative approach to beating a drug test? Mike Macujo is ready to answer your questions. Reach out today and acquire the tools and techniques needed to conquer a hair-based drug test.