Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) Saliva Test for Men & Women – 6-Point Adrenal & DHEAS Profile
The Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) Saliva Test is an advanced at-home adrenal function test designed to measure cortisol and DHEAS levels at multiple time points throughout the day. This comprehensive profile evaluates how your stress hormones rise after waking and decline across the day — providing deep insight into HPA axis function, adrenal balance, energy regulation, and stress resilience.
Using non-invasive saliva sampling, this test allows accurate hormone assessment without clinic visits or blood draws.
Ideal for men and women experiencing chronic stress, fatigue, sleep disturbance, burnout, or mood changes.
What Is the Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR)?
The Cortisol Awakening Response refers to the natural increase in cortisol that occurs within the first 30–60 minutes after waking.
A healthy response typically involves:
- A 50% rise in cortisol within 30 minutes
- A gradual decline throughout the afternoon
- Low levels at night to support sleep
Disruption of this rhythm may reflect stress overload or altered adrenal regulation.
What This CAR Test Measures
Adrenal & Stress Hormones
- Cortisol – Upon Waking
- Cortisol – 30 Minutes After Waking
- Cortisol – 60 Minutes After Waking
- Midday Cortisol
- Evening Cortisol
- Night Cortisol
- DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)
This multi-point collection provides a full daily cortisol curve, allowing assessment of diurnal rhythm and adrenal output.
Who Should Consider This Test?
This test may be suitable for individuals experiencing:
- Chronic stress or burnout
- Persistent fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood swings or anxiety
- Difficulty waking in the morning
- Brain fog or poor concentration
- Low motivation or reduced performance
- Weight changes linked to stress
- Suspected adrenal imbalance
Appropriate for both adults and children.
Symptoms Associated With Cortisol Imbalance
Possible Low Cortisol Patterns
- Ongoing fatigue
- Dizziness or low blood pressure
- Sugar or salt cravings
- Reduced stress tolerance
- Poor recovery
- Decreased libido
- Brain fog
Possible Elevated Cortisol Patterns
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Sleep disruption
- Central weight gain
- Irritability
- High blood sugar patterns
- Persistent stress feeling
- Thinning skin
Testing provides insight but does not diagnose disease. Results should be discussed with a healthcare professional if needed.
Why Choose Saliva Testing for Cortisol?
- Measures bioavailable (active) cortisol
- Avoids stress-induced spikes seen in blood testing
- Ideal for capturing awakening response
- Convenient at-home collection
- Accurate for monitoring stress-related hormone patterns
6-Tube vs 4-Tube Collection Options
6-Point Collection (Recommended for Full CAR)
- Wake (within 5 minutes)
- +30 minutes
- +60 minutes
- Noon
- Evening
- Night
Provides the most detailed cortisol awakening curve.
Key Features
- Convenience: Collect samples from the comfort of your home and conveniently send them to our lab for analysis—no need for a clinic visit or invasive procedures.
- Fast Results: Receive your test results within 3-5 working days after the laboratory receives your sample. This allows for prompt assessment and action if necessary.
- Comprehensive Analysis: The test result includes hormone levels presented in graphics and numbers, providing a clear understanding of your hormonal status. Additionally, a Hormone Specialist PhD Dr. provides laboratory comments, offering expert analysis and guidance on the next steps.
- Suitable for All Ages: The test is designed for both adults and children, making it ideal for individuals of all age groups.
- Long Shelf Life: The test kit remains valid for up to 12 months after the purchase date, allowing flexibility in scheduling and usage.
- Inclusive Pricing: The test kit includes a laboratory fee, ensuring there are no additional costs or taxes related to the laboratory analysis.
- Shipping Responsibility: Customers are responsible for shipping their samples to the laboratory, giving them control over the shipping process and timelines.
- How and When to Collect your saliva samples: Saliva Testing Instructions
- Click to see >> Sample Saliva Test Result Report
Benefits of the CAR Test
Comprehensive Adrenal Assessment
Evaluates full daily cortisol rhythm.
HPA Axis Insight
Helps understand stress adaptation patterns.
Valuable for Stress-Related Conditions
Provides insight for individuals experiencing long-term stress patterns.
Accurate Hormone Curve Mapping
Multiple samples allow precise daily rhythm plotting.
Supports Monitoring Over Time
Useful for tracking hormone trends during lifestyle or therapy adjustments.
How It Works
- Order your CAR saliva test kit online.
- Collect saliva samples at specified times.
- Send samples to our accredited UK laboratory.
- Receive your detailed hormone report within 3–5 working days.
- Review graphical cortisol curve and specialist interpretation.
What Your Report Includes
- Individual cortisol values
- DHEAS measurement
- Diurnal rhythm graph
- Reference ranges
- Specialist commentary
- Practical next-step guidance
Testing Technology
Our laboratory uses advanced analytical methods including:
- LC-MS/MS (mass spectrometry) for high specificity
- Validated immunoassay methods where appropriate
These technologies ensure reliable and precise hormone measurement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hormones are included?
Cortisol (multiple time points) and DHEAS.
Why is the awakening response important?
It reflects how effectively your adrenal system activates at the start of the day.
Do I need to fast?
No fasting required. Follow timing instructions carefully.
How long until I receive results?
3–5 working days after lab receipt.
Is this suitable during hormone therapy?
Yes, though testing timing should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Are there hidden costs?
No. Lab analysis and specialist review are included.
Take Control of Your Stress & Adrenal Health
Your cortisol rhythm influences energy, mood, sleep, metabolism, and resilience.
The Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) Saliva Test provides detailed insight into your daily stress hormone pattern — helping you better understand your adrenal function and overall wellbeing.
Order today for fast, accurate UK laboratory results from the comfort of your home.
