Reply #6: This is something I know about.

[hang a left]

Normally they take head hair which grows at about 1 centimeter a month. So a normal test would represent about 90 days. Underarm hair grows much slower. The sample could represent up to 9 months.

They test for marijuana, opiates, methamphetamine, cocaine, amphetamine.

If you are worried about being positive for marijuana. I wouldn't fret too much. The chemical in marijuana doesn't deposit itself into the follicle as much as other drugs. Even chronic users will come up under the cut-off amounts. Therefore having a negative result. I'd be more worried about the urine test if you are a chronic marijuana user, as you can still have a positive test 30 days after the cessation of usage.

Cocaine is just the opposite. The chemical in the drug leaves heavy deposits in the follicle. If you have used this drug even casually (meaning more that just a few times in the last 6-9)it is highly possible that you will come back positive.

The thing about hair follicle tests is that if you have just used the drugs a couple of times recreation ally your test will come back negative. It is really more of a test that will tell someone whether or not you are a regular drug user.

As far as the urine test goes. Even if you are a total meth-head if you quit using for 3-4 days your urine will test negative. So it is not a adequate test to accurately depict someone's lifestyle. That is the reason for the hair follicle test.

If you have any specific questions, I will try to answer them.