Toxicological hair analysis using different techniques: A comparative review

Hair drug analysis is known to be an advanced toxicological method, used for retrospective examination of substance use over extended periods. This study aims to discuss the drug incorporation mechanisms and impact of pre-analytical processes such as segmentation, decontamination, and extraction. Additionally, this study has evaluated important analytical techniques like GC-MS and LC-MS- highlighting superiority of LC-MS for low-dose and thermolabile compounds. The result of the study has emphasized the importance of proper methodology and interpretation expertise in differentiating active use from passive exposure. With the non-invasive nature and broad detection window, hair analysis holds significant clinical and forensic value. Future directions include the formulation and implementation of standardization protocols, utilization of high-resolution mass spectrometry, and integration of data-driven models for the improvement in accuracy and legal defensibility.