HTMA Prep and Directions
Pre Test Considerations
Planning ahead:
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Hair should be free of dye. You want to wait at least 6-8 weeks after any dye, bleach, or chemical hair products have been used and it has been washed at least 8-10 times. You want to have a good amount of outgrowth at the root prior to taking the hair sample for the test.
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If you use any anti dandruff shampoo, discontinue use for at least 2 weeks prior and make sure you not on the form when you submit that you had been using it prior. You will need a CLARIFYING shampoo free of any added minerals.
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Try and avoid using any pools for a week prior to collection. High mineral content in the water can throw off results.
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Scalp hair should be used at all costs. If you are bald, you can use armpit, chest, or beard hair, you just need to be able to collect enough for the sample and follow directions closely.
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Make sure you have someone who is clear about the directions help you to take the hair sample and also views the testing video.
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You will need stainless steel scissors.
Day of Collection:
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You will want to wash your hair twice with the clarifying shampoo using distilled water if at all possible. DO NOT CONDITION THE HAIR. After you get out of the shower towel dry the hair only, DO NOT BLOW DRY. And allow the hair to air dry at least 4-6 hours before the hair sample is taken. You do not want damp hair for collection as it will throw off the weight.
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DO NOT, use any hair products on your hair after you get done washing it. We don't want any sweat, grease, or any other fluids to get into the fresh root of the hair sample we are submitting.
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Take very small sections of hair from 3-4 different areas of the scalp and cut as close to the scalp as possible. After you take each small sample, you want to trim the hair so you only include about 1inch of the hair from the root. It's important to INCLUDE the hair closest to the root. You will fold the scale that is in your kit and continue adding hair to it until the scale tips to know when you have enough. See image on the right. (You will get one in your kit and fold into the scale).
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Hair must ONLY go in the small little envelope provided for you. Be sure to add the brand of shampoo and fill out the small envelope correctly. Do not put it in any kind of foil or plastic before putting it into the bigger mailing envelope.
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Mailing Instructions:
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Add the hair sample to the small white envelope provided. You will see a place for your name, shampoo brand, and the doctor account number. If you don't have the account number written, please ask before you send in.
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Fill out the form section that is marked off in color and do not fill out anything else on the form. You must include the form with your hair sample into the regular mailing envelope provided before sending back.
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The envelope is pre addressed just make sure to include the form and hair sample before sending back. You can use a regular mail stamp if you like and even send out from a regular mailbox or choose to send it priority if you wish.
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After you send out, please notify me that it is sent out. Samples typically take around 2 weeks from the date the lab receives the sample.
Here are a few informative videos below for more reference:
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Casie Shepherd is not a doctor or licensed practitioner. Any information provided by Casie Shepherd and Spectrum Wellness on this site and mobile app is for general informational purposes only. Any testing and information given should not be taken as medical advice. Only a Licensed Medical Professional can diagnose and prescribe treatments and medications for you. Do not ignore or delay seeking medical advice or treatment because of any information obtained or recommended by Casie Shepherd Spectrum Wellness. Consult your own Medical Professional regarding all nutritional supplements to evaluate if the supplements could adversely affect or react with any medications or pre-existing conditions. Stop any food or supplement immediately if you have any type of adverse reaction. You agree that Casie Shepherd Spectrum Wellness and its representatives shall not be liable for damages arising from the information and content viewed and obtained through her or this website. You agree that this limitation of liability is comprehensive and applies to personal injuries and all damages of any kind, including without limitation direct, indirect, incidental, general, special, punitive, compensatory, and consequential damages. These tests are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem - nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health.