Hair mineral analysis: what the evidence says

Hair mineral analysis is a commercial test that measures mineral and sometimes heavy metal levels in a small sample of hair, marketed as a way to assess nutritional status or toxic exposure. A lock of hair is sent to a laboratory, which reports levels of various elements.

It's often marketed for general wellbeing, suspected nutritional deficiency, or concerns about heavy metal exposure. However, it's important to know this isn't a test recommended by mainstream medical bodies for diagnosing nutritional status or toxicity.

Most providers ask you to send a small sample of hair, usually cut close to the scalp, following their kit instructions. Hair treatments such as dyeing or bleaching can affect results, so check the kit guidance.

You typically cut a small sample of hair, package it as instructed, and post it to the laboratory. Results are then compiled into a report, often alongside supplement or dietary recommendations.

This is an area to be candid about: major medical and toxicology bodies have found hair mineral analysis to be unreliable for assessing nutritional status, with poor reproducibility between laboratories testing the same sample. Mineral content in hair reflects external factors like hair products and environment as well as the body's internal levels, making results difficult to interpret meaningfully.

Most providers report results within one to three weeks of receiving the sample. You'll usually get an online report and sometimes a follow-up consultation.

Because the test isn't validated for diagnosing deficiency or toxicity, results shouldn't be used to start supplements or make significant dietary changes on their own. If you're genuinely concerned about a mineral deficiency or metal exposure, a doctor can arrange properly validated blood or urine tests instead.

It isn't offered on the NHS, as it isn't part of validated clinical practice; it's purchased privately, and cost varies by provider. If you have symptoms of concern, an NHS or private doctor's assessment using recognised blood tests is a more appropriate route.

Because the underlying test isn't considered reliable, starting supplements based solely on a hair mineral report isn't recommended, and unnecessary supplementation can occasionally cause harm. Speak to a doctor or registered dietitian before making changes, especially if you take other medications.

Book a private GP consultation, which can arrange validated blood tests for specific nutrients or, where genuinely indicated, appropriate testing for metal exposure.