What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're concerned about copper exposure from your environment, workplace, or water supply. It helps if you've been around copper pipes, industrial fumes, certain pesticides, or other sources and want to check whether copper has built up in your body over time. Hair testing looks back at exposure over weeks to months, not just a single moment.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what a normal copper range looks like versus an elevated one. If your level is high, simple next steps include identifying and reducing the exposure source, such as switching water filters or using protective gear at work, then retesting in a few months to confirm the level has dropped. You can download a standard lab report anytime from your account, and the trends feature lets you track your copper levels over multiple tests to see if your changes are working.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone who works with or lives near copper sources, like plumbers, miners, welders, or people with old copper plumbing, may want to consider this test. It's also useful if you've noticed symptoms that could be linked to metal exposure, or if you simply want a baseline reading for peace of mind. This test is for exposure monitoring and investigation, not for diagnosing a medical condition.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Signs like unusual fatigue, stomach discomfort, headaches, or metallic taste after working around copper materials can be reasons to check your exposure. Hair discoloration or changes in texture near areas of heavy metal contact can also be a clue. If you know you've had regular contact with copper dust, fumes, or contaminated water, that's often reason enough to test even without symptoms.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll get a notification once your report is available in your account. This timeframe allows the lab to accurately measure trace copper levels in the hair sample.

How can I naturally support healthy copper balance?

Reducing direct contact with copper sources, like wearing gloves when handling copper materials or improving ventilation in work areas, is one of the most effective steps. Filtering drinking water can help if your pipes are a suspected source. Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated supports your body's natural ability to process and clear trace minerals.

What does a high copper result mean?

A high result suggests your body has been exposed to more copper than usual over the testing period, often from environmental or occupational sources. This isn't a diagnosis on its own, but it's a useful signal to look at where the exposure might be coming from. Reducing contact with the source and retesting later can help confirm whether the level comes back down.

What causes elevated copper exposure?

Common sources include old copper plumbing, contaminated well water, certain occupational settings like mining, welding, or metalworking, and some agricultural chemicals. Cookware and copper-containing supplements can also contribute in some cases. Identifying your specific routine and environment is usually the best way to pinpoint the source.

How often should I retest?

If you've made changes to reduce exposure, retesting in about 3 to 6 months is a reasonable timeframe to see if your levels have improved. If you work in an environment with ongoing copper exposure, periodic retesting every few months can help you keep an eye on trends. Your trends feature in your account makes it easy to compare results over time.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

Start by reviewing your daily environment and routine for likely copper sources, such as plumbing, water, or workplace materials, and take steps to reduce contact. Simple changes like using a water filter, improving ventilation, or wearing protective equipment can make a real difference. If you experience severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, or confusion, seek medical care right away, as this could indicate acute exposure.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Hair Copper Test - Exposure Monitoring

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]