Please watch our instructional video for collection fingernail samples:

 

Instructions for Fingernail Cortisol Collection:

1. Collect the materials needed:
2. Let fingernails grow for at least 2-3 weeks since previous clipping.
3. If any nail polish is present on the nails, the polish should be removed at least 1 day before sample collection. Presence of nail polish should be noted by the participant via the online questionnaire.
4. Participant should wash hands with soap and water. If necessary, remove any dirt from the nails.
5. Wipe clippers with alcohol pad and let dry for 1 minute.
6. Place a clean white paper on a flat surface such as a table for the purpose of catching the nail clippings.
7. Clip approximately 2mm from all 5 fingers of both hands. This thickness is equal to the width of a quarter (see image below). If the full thickness is not available, then clip as closely as possible to that amount.
8. Carefully place all clippings into provided labeled Ziplock plastic bag as requested by the investigator. Make a note if any nails clippings were lost in the clipping process within the online questionnaire.