Not sure whether you need a hair-based sensitivity test, a blood-spot IgG test, or a clinical IgE allergy test? Each measures something genuinely different, and picking the right one matters — both for getting an accurate answer and for not paying for more (or less) than you actually need. Here's how our tests compare, so you can choose with confidence
What's the Real Difference Between These Tests?
Hair-based sensitivity tests (Body Sensitivity Test, Complete Food Sensitivity Test, Essentials Food Sensitivity Test) use a non-invasive hair sample to screen for a broad range of food, environmental, and non-food items. They're the fastest, most affordable way to get a broad first look at potential triggers.
Blood-spot IgG testing (Food Sensitivity Test) measures IgG antibodies, which reflect your body's exposure to specific foods. This is a different methodology from IgE allergy testing, and it's worth knowing that IgG testing for food "sensitivity" is a more scientifically debated area — some major allergy organizations note that IgG levels reflect exposure to a food rather than necessarily indicating a problem with it. We include it because many customers find it a useful part of the picture, but we want you to choose it with accurate expectations.
Blood-spot IgE testing (Premium, Advanced, Basic, and Skin Allergy Tests) is the clinically established method for diagnosing a true, immune-mediated allergy. If you're dealing with symptoms like hives, swelling, or breathing difficulty — the kind of reaction that suggests your immune system is involved — this is the right category of test, and results are processed in our CLIA-certified laboratory.
Which Test Should You Choose?
- Want the broadest possible screen, fast and affordable? Start with the Body Sensitivity Test.
- Suspect a true allergy with immune-system symptoms (hives, swelling, breathing issues)? Choose an IgE Allergy Test — Premium if you want the widest coverage.
- Want blood-based data on food exposure specifically? The Food Sensitivity Test (IgG) may be worth adding, understanding the caveats above.
- Budget under $150? Every hair-based test, plus the Basic and Skin Allergy Tests, fall under this threshold.
FAQs
Are at-home allergy tests as accurate as tests done at a doctor's office?
It depends on the test type. Our IgE blood-spot tests use the same clinically established methodology used in medical settings, processed in a CLIA-certified lab — but a true allergy diagnosis should still involve your doctor or an allergist, particularly for anything with a history of severe reactions. Hair-based sensitivity testing and IgG testing are useful screening tools, not replacements for clinical allergy diagnosis.
What's the difference between a food allergy and a food sensitivity test?
An allergy test (IgE) checks for a true immune-system reaction, the kind that can cause anaphylaxis. A sensitivity test looks at broader digestive or exposure-based reactions that don't involve the immune system in the same way. They're answering different questions, which is why we offer both.
How much does an at-home allergy or sensitivity test cost?
Our tests range from $49.99 for the Essentials Food Sensitivity Test up to $219.99 for the IgG Food Sensitivity Test. Most customers start with a test in the $50–$65 range and add more targeted testing if needed.
How long do results take?
Most of our tests return results in 5 working days from when your sample reaches our lab. We also a fast-track sample processing service.
