Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Can I really pass a hair follicle drug test?” These tests are known for being accurate and can detect drug use over a long time, making them tough to pass. But with the right tips and some effort, you can improve your chances.
This guide will share easy methods and advice to help you tackle this test confidently.
Understanding Hair Follicle Drug Tests
Hair follicle drug tests are used to detect drug use over an extended period—up to 90 days—unlike urine or blood tests that only show recent use.
What is it? This test analyzes a small hair sample to find traces of drugs like marijuana, cocaine, opiates, methamphetamine, and ecstasy. As hair grows, it absorbs these substances from the bloodstream, creating a record of drug use.
How it works: A technician cuts a small sample of hair close to the scalp, which is sent to a lab for testing. The typical sample length is about 1.5 inches, reflecting roughly three months of growth.
What can it detect? Common substances include:
- Marijuana (THC)
- Cocaine
- Opiates (heroin, codeine, morphine)
- Methamphetamine
- Ecstasy (MDMA)
- PCP
These tests are highly accurate and hard to cheat, making them popular for employers and legal purposes. Knowing how they work can help you prepare and take necessary steps if you need to pass one.
The Testing Process
The hair follicle drug testing process includes several key steps:
- Sample Collection:
- A technician cuts a small hair sample, usually from the crown, about 1.5 inches long, using 100-120 strands. If scalp hair isn’t available, hair can be taken from other body parts.
- Preparing the Sample:
- The sample is inspected for length and quantity, then washed to remove dirt and products, ensuring accurate test results.
- Laboratory Analysis:
- The hair is treated with chemicals to release drug metabolites. An initial screening test (ELISA) checks for drugs, followed by a confirmation test (GC-MS) if needed, to verify specific substances and their amounts.
- Interpreting the Results:
- Results indicate whether drugs were used and in what quantity. A report is generated with negative results meaning no drug use, and positive results showing detected substances.
- Quality Control:
- Labs follow strict quality control procedures to ensure accuracy, maintaining a chain of custody from collection to analysis.
- After the Test:
- Test results are communicated to the individual or requesting party, typically within a few days to a week. Negative results usually mean passing the test; positive results may lead to further action.
Understanding this process clarifies how hair follicle tests reliably detect long-term drug use.
How to Pass a Hair Follicle Drug Test
Passing a hair follicle drug test can be tough because it can detect drug use for a long time. Here are some easy strategies to help you improve your chances:
1. Stop Using Drugs Right Away
- As soon as you know about the test, stop using drugs. The more time you have without drugs, the better your chances.
2. Use Detox Shampoo
- Detox shampoos help remove drug traces from your hair. Brands like Old Style Aloe Toxin Rid and Zydot Ultra Clean are popular.
How to use:
- Wash your hair with regular shampoo first.
- Apply the detox shampoo and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse well and repeat several times before the test.
3. Try the Macujo Method
This home remedy uses simple products to cleanse your hair.
What you need:
- White vinegar
- Salicylic acid shampoo (like Clean & Clear)
- Detox shampoo (like Old Style Aloe Toxin Rid)
- Liquid detergent (like Tide)
Steps:
- Wet your hair and massage vinegar into your scalp.
- Add the salicylic acid shampoo and lather it up.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse.
- Wash with detox shampoo.
- Finally, wash with liquid detergent.
4. Consider the Jerry G Method
This method involves bleaching and re-dyeing your hair.
Steps:
- Stop using drugs at least 10 days before the test.
- Bleach your hair, then dye it back to your original color.
- Wash with detox shampoo.
- Repeat the bleaching and dyeing.
- On test day, wash with detox shampoo again.
5. Home Remedies and Other Tips
- Cut Your Hair: Some people cut their hair short, but this can lead to using body hair for testing.
- Baking Soda: Wash your hair with a paste of baking soda and water, leave it in for 10-15 minutes, then rinse.
6. Stay Healthy
- Drink Water: Hydrate to help flush out toxins.
- Eat Well: A balanced diet with fruits, veggies, and lean proteins helps your body detox.
- Exercise: Regular workouts boost metabolism and sweat out toxins.
7. Be Ready for the Test
- Make sure your hair is clean and product-free on test day.
- Follow instructions for any detox methods you use.
- Stay calm during the test to avoid drawing attention.
8. Know the Rules
- Be aware of the legal issues around tampering with a drug test.
- Cheating can lead to serious problems, including losing your job.
By following these easy tips, you can boost your chances of passing a hair follicle drug test. Remember, the best way to pass is to stay drug-free!
FAQs
Does peroxide remove drugs from hair?
Peroxide can potentially alter the appearance of drugs in hair by breaking down some of the substances, but it is not a reliable method for completely removing drugs. Hair drug tests can still detect the presence of drugs even after treatment with peroxide.
How long does it take to clean your hair from drugs?
It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for drugs to be cleared from hair, depending on factors like the substance used and individual metabolism.
How are drugs extracted from hair?
Drugs are extracted from hair by cutting the hair into small pieces, then using solvents to dissolve the substances. The solution is then analyzed to detect the presence of drugs.
Useful Resources
Healthline: Everything You Should Know About a Hair Strand Drug Test
WikiHow: How to Pass a Hair Follicle Drug Test
Conclusion
Passing a hair follicle drug test can be tough since it can detect drug use for a long time. To improve your chances of passing, stop using drugs right away, try detox shampoos or methods like Macujo or Jerry G, and live a healthy lifestyle.
Understand how the test works and know the legal issues if you think about tampering. The best way to guarantee a clean result is to stay drug-free.