Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA)
A simple, non-invasive hair test with a one-on-one results session, offered by Dr Emma Cormack.
Book your HTMAWhat is HTMA?
HTMA is a laboratory test that measures the mineral content of a small sample of your hair. We collect the sample in clinic, send it to the lab, and go through your report with you once it returns.
Good to know
HTMA does not diagnose conditions and does not replace medical assessment or treatment. Hair products, colouring and environmental exposure can affect results, so we read your report alongside your history and overall health.
Choose your appointment
HTMA Initial
Health history, consent and hair sample collection, plus Dr Emma's preparation of your personalised report and recommendations.
HTMA + Chiropractic & Kinesiology
Everything in the HTMA Initial, plus a chiropractic and kinesiology consultation.
How it works
Book
Choose the HTMA or combined initial appointment.
Come in
Dr Emma takes your history, explains the test and collects your sample.
Lab analysis
Results usually take around two weeks once the sample is sent.
Review together
Go through your report and discuss nutrition and lifestyle considerations.
Not local? Do it from home
If you live outside the Northern Beaches, you can complete HTMA remotely anywhere in Australia, using a telehealth appointment and a hair sample collected at home.
- Book a telehealth history appointment and complete the online intake and consent form beforehand.
- We post your collection kit with step-by-step instructions. Collect your sample at home and send it to the lab in the reply-paid envelope.
- Book a 30-minute telehealth session to go over your results with Dr Emma. This is an additional fee of $95.
Includes your telehealth history, collection kit, and Dr Emma's personalised report and recommendations.
Remote HTMA does not replace an in-person assessment or advice from your GP. [Confirm your lab accepts client-collected samples before publishing.]
Preparing for your sample
A clean, product-free hair sample helps the lab analyse your results reliably. Here is how to prepare.
- Start with clean hair. Wash with a plain shampoo and rinse well. Avoid medicated or anti-dandruff shampoos, and don't apply gels, oils, creams or other styling products afterwards.
- Hair length. Your hair needs to be at least 4 cm long from the scalp. The lab only uses the 3 cm closest to the scalp.
- How the sample is taken. A few small snips are cut from underneath, at the back of the head, as close to the scalp as possible, so it won't be noticeable. About a teaspoon of hair in total is needed.
- Coloured or treated hair. Hair that has been dyed, bleached or permed isn't suitable. If this applies to you, let us know when booking. It may be best to wait for new growth.
- Short hair. If your hair is shorter than 4 cm, contact us before booking so we can advise.
- Bring a list of your current medications and supplements.
- Remote clients follow the same steps using the instructions included in their collection kit.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
No. Collecting a small hair sample is quick and painless.
How long do results take?
Usually around two weeks after the sample is sent. We will contact you to book your results session.
Can HTMA diagnose a condition?
No. If you have symptoms or health concerns, please see your GP or another registered health practitioner.
Can I test if I colour my hair?
Hair that has been dyed, bleached or permed isn't suitable for testing. Tell us when booking and we will talk through whether you need to wait for new growth.
Do I need the combined appointment?
No. You can book the HTMA Initial on its own. Many clients choose to combine it with a chiropractic and kinesiology consultation.
Can I use my health fund?
HTMA is not eligible for private health fund rebates. Chiropractic consultations may be claimable under your extras cover, so the chiropractic component of a combined appointment may be eligible. Rebates depend on your fund and level of cover, so please check with your provider directly.
Meet Dr Emma Cormack
Founder of Vital Chiropractic, an Australian registered chiropractor and kinesiologist. [Add AHPRA registration number and a line on your training.]
Mona Vale NSW 2103
emma@vitalchiropractic.com.au