Can Nail Clippings Be Used for DNA Testing?
Fingernail or toenail clippings may sometimes provide DNA suitable for analysis. The amount of recoverable material varies, so nail clippings are handled as a special sample and reviewed before submission.
Sample type: Laboratory assessment required · Typical suitability: Case dependent
What affects a nail sample
Suitability generally depends on how many clippings are available, how large and thick they are, how recently they were cut, and how they were stored. Small, thin or very old clippings may contain limited material.
Surface contamination from other people, soil, cosmetics or cleaning products can also affect what a laboratory partner is able to recover.
Before you send nail clippings
Keep the clippings dry in a clean paper envelope and contact us before mailing them. We will confirm whether they may be accepted, what test options may be available and how to package the sample.
What helps a sample
- Several clippings are usually preferable to one.
- Keep the sample dry; avoid plastic bags for long storage.
- Handle with clean hands, ideally with gloves, to limit transfer.
- Consent from the person the sample belongs to may be required.
FAQ
Questions about nail clippings samples
No sample can be guaranteed to produce a usable DNA profile. Laboratory analysis is performed by qualified, accredited laboratory partners, and acceptance of any report by a third party is not guaranteed.