Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA): What It Is and How It Works
Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) is a laboratory test that measures selected mineral and elemental concentrations in a small sample of hair. It offers a non-invasive way to examine the elemental composition of hair and provides information that some nutritional practitioners use as one part of a broader wellness assessment.
At Stepping Stones Natural Health and Wellness, we offer HTMA testing for individuals interested in learning more about their mineral patterns and exploring personalized nutritional support.
What Does Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis Measure?
Hair is a tissue that incorporates certain elements as it grows. A laboratory analyzes a small hair sample to measure selected essential minerals, trace elements, and potentially toxic elements.
Depending on the laboratory, an HTMA report may include:
Essential minerals: Calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, copper, zinc, iron, manganese and others.
Trace elements: Elements present in smaller concentrations that have biological roles.
Potentially toxic elements: Such as lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic.
Mineral ratios: Mathematical comparisons between selected mineral concentrations.
The results are presented in a laboratory report that can be reviewed to understand the measured elemental concentrations and their relationships.
Understanding Mineral Ratios
One of the features of HTMA reports is the calculation of mineral ratios.
These ratios compare the measured concentrations of selected minerals. Examples include:
Calcium to magnesium (Ca/Mg)
Sodium to potassium (Na/K)
Calcium to potassium (Ca/K)
Zinc to copper (Zn/Cu)
We use these ratios as an interpretive framework when discussing mineral patterns.
Why Does Laboratory Selection Matter?
Not all hair testing laboratories use identical analytical methods, sample preparation procedures, or reporting formats.
For this reason, I pay particular attention to the laboratories used for HTMA testing.
The two laboratories I currently prefer are:
Trace Elements, Inc. (TEI)
Trace Elements provides hair tissue mineral analysis with a detailed report containing elemental measurements and mineral ratios.
Analytical Research Laboratories (ARL)
Analytical Research Laboratories also provides hair tissue mineral analysis and detailed laboratory reporting.
Both laboratories are options I have selected for the testing services I offer. Sample preparation and collection requirements should always be followed according to the laboratory’s current instructions.
Analytical Labs Hair Analysis FAQ
Trace Elements Hair Analysis FAQ– this is my preferred lab for hair testing.
What Happens After You Order an HTMA Test?
Getting started is relatively simple.
Order your test kit. Select the appropriate HTMA test through my online shop.
Collect your hair sample. Follow the laboratory’s instructions for sample collection and preparation.
Send your sample to the laboratory. Your sample is submitted for laboratory analysis.
Receive your results. The laboratory processes your sample and results are usually available in approx. 2 weeks.
Review your findings. I can explore your results and discuss nutritional considerations and personalized wellness support.
What Can an HTMA Report Tell You?
An HTMA report provides measurements of selected elements in your hair sample which need to be in proper balance to achieve optimal health.
Is Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis Right for You?
If you are interested in learning more about your mineral status and exploring a personalized nutritional assessment, HTMA testing is a great tool just for that!
Whether you are new to mineral testing or have previously completed an HTMA, understanding your report is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions About HTMA
How much hair is needed for an HTMA test?
Your test kit will include instructions explaining how much hair to collect and where to collect it, but it is approximately 125mgs.
Does hair need to be untreated?
Hair treatments, dyes, shampoos and other external exposures may affect elemental measurements. Preparation instructions are available on my website and are also sent inside your test kit.
Can HTMA measure thyroid or adrenal hormones?
No. HTMA does not directly measure thyroid hormones, adrenal hormones, or sex hormones like in blood work. However, we can tell your body’s sensitivities to these hormones.
Can children and adults have an HTMA test?
Yes, anyone age 1 to 100 can hair test!
How often should HTMA testing be repeated?
This varies on many factors including findings, symptoms, gut health, and budget.
Ready to Explore Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis?
At Stepping Stones Natural Health and Wellness, my goal is to help you better understand your nutritional health through education and appropriate functional testing.
Explore my available hair mineral testing options below.
For questions about laboratory selection, sample collection, or available nutritional consultations, please contact Stepping Stones Natural Health and Wellness.
