Red Seal Cosmetology Practice Exam

How can you tell if hair is real?

1. Burn it with a match

2. Soak it in water

3. Check for split ends

4. Pull on it to see if it stretches

The correct answer is: Burn it with a match

Burning hair with a match will give off a distinct smell that is different from synthetic hair. Soaking hair in water can also help differentiate if it is real or not, as synthetic hair may have a different texture or appearance when wet. Checking for split ends can be a hint, but hair extensions or treatments can also prevent split ends, so it may not be a reliable method. Pulling on hair to see if it stretches can also be misleading as some types of synthetic hair can also stretch. Overall, burning the hair with a match is the most effective way to determine if it is real.