Table 1.
Comparison of hair with other matrices of cortisol
| Characteristics | Hair | Other Matrices (saliva, blood and urine) |
|---|---|---|
|
Length of cortisol information |
Chronic | Acute |
| Storage | Can be stored at room temperature |
Require specific storage (e.g., refrigeration or freezing) |
|
Situational and intra-individual variability |
Cortisol in hair is not easily influenced by acute situational and individual factors—although evidence suggests that it might be influenced by hair hygiene and cosmetic related behavior (e.g., hair treatment and hair dyeing) |
Measurements are vulnerable to factors such as time of the day, cigarette smoking, and acute stress |
|
Repeated Measurements |
Less need for repeated measurements—although some individuals might be unwilling to give hair |
Need for repeated measurements— expensive, burdensome for study participants and likely to increase incomplete sample collection and loss to follow-up |
| Invasiveness | Small amount of hair is needed; not invasive |
Although saliva and urine are less invasive, obtainment of blood can be invasive and painful for participants. |