Substance use among teens continues to challenge schools and families alike. In response, many education leaders are adopting preventive strategies that go beyond awareness campaigns. One of the most effective and proven tools is drug testing with hair, a method that delivers unmatched insight into long-term use patterns, something traditional drug tests often miss.
At Psychemedics, we work closely with schools and parents to implement testing programs that prioritize student wellness, early intervention, and community trust. This post answers frequently asked questions we hear from educators and families considering hair testing in schools.
Why Choose Hair Testing Over Urine or Oral Fluid?
While urine and oral fluid tests only detect very recent drug use, typically within 1 to 3 days, hair testing provides a far broader window of detection. It reveals drug use over the past 90 days, making it a more effective tool for identifying patterns of behavior rather than isolated incidents.
Unlike urine tests, which can be adulterated or substituted, hair samples are collected under direct observation, virtually eliminating the risk of tampering. Oral fluid tests, though easier to administer, still share the short detection window that limits their usefulness in identifying long-term use.
Is Hair Testing Safe and Non-Invasive?
Yes. Hair testing is completely non-invasive and pain-free. A small sample of hair, approximately the width of a shoelace tip, is snipped from the crown of the head, where it’s least noticeable. The process takes less than a minute and causes no discomfort.
For students with very short or no head hair, an alternative sample can be taken from the body with parental consent, ensuring inclusivity without compromising the integrity of the program.
What Substances Can Psychemedics Detect?
Psychemedics’ proprietary testing panels can identify a wide range of commonly used drugs, including:
- Marijuana (THC)
- Cocaine
- Opioids (including fentanyl)
- Amphetamines and methamphetamine
- Benzodiazepines
- Synthetic cannabinoids (e.g., K2/Spice)
- Nicotine and alcohol (available upon request)
We work with each school to tailor the panel to its needs, local concerns, and prevention goals.
How Accurate and Reliable Are the Results?
Psychemedics is the only hair testing lab with FDA-cleared drug tests for multiple substances. Our patented technology delivers industry-leading sensitivity and specificity, with results that withstand legal and scientific scrutiny.
Every positive result is confirmed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS or LC/MS-MS), the gold standard in forensic toxicology.
How Quickly Are Results Returned?
Most results are available within 24–48 hours of receiving the sample. Our secure, web-based platform allows authorized school personnel to view and manage results quickly and confidentially. In the rare case of a positive test, optional medical review services are available to ensure accuracy and fair interpretation.
What Role Do Parents Play in the Testing Process?
Parental involvement is vital, depending on the school’s policies and community preferences. Most schools find that when testing is framed as a supportive measure rather than a punitive one, families overwhelmingly support the program.
Psychemedics provides educational materials, training, and communication templates to help schools engage families from the very beginning.
How Does Hair Testing Support Student Wellness?
The goal of hair testing isn’t to punish, it’s to intervene early, support students at risk, and reinforce healthy decision-making. By identifying students who may be experimenting with substances, schools and families can step in with counseling, resources, and support before a pattern escalates.
Many schools report that the presence of a hair testing program acts as a powerful deterrent, helping students resist peer pressure and make safer choices.
Why Partner with Psychemedics?
With over three decades of experience and partnerships with hundreds of schools nationwide, Psychemedics is the gold standard in hair drug testing. Our technology, service, and expertise are unmatched, and we’re committed to helping schools create environments where students can thrive.
Have more questions?
Our team is here to help. Whether you’re launching a new program or refining an existing one, Psychemedics provides the tools and support to make your efforts successful.
References:
- “Hair Drug Testing Facts | FAQs | Psychemedics.” Psychemedics, 25 Oct. 2021, psychemedics.com/hair-drug-testing-facts-faqs/#confirmation.
- Payne2, Julius. “Drug Test for Teens: Why Every Parent Needs to Consider Drug Testing for Teens – Speedy Sticks | Mobile Lab Services.” Speedy Sticks | Mobile Lab Services – Mobile Phlebotomy, on Site Healthcare, Home Lab, 12 July 2023, speedysticks.com/blog/drug-testing-for-teens/.
- Palamar, Joseph J., and Alberto Salomone. “On the Challenges of Hair Testing to Detect Underreported Substance Use in Research Settings.” The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, vol. 49, no. 1, 2 Jan. 2023, pp. 1–4, https://doi.org/10.1080/00952990.2023.2166414