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5 Best Hair Follicle Detox Shampoos for Passing Drug Tests

Adrian Bennett

By Dr. Adrian Bennett

Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), Master’s degree in Clinical Pharmacology

Updated on 2024 May 30

In this article, I will explore the best shampoos that can help you pass a hair drug test.

I understand how important it is to find solutions that actually work for removing THC and other drugs and are also safe.

With the options I’ll discuss, you won’t need to bleach your hair or shave your entire body.

You don’t have to harm your hair or scalp with harsh methods. Plus, you won’t be overwhelmed by buying and using many different products.

Best of all, these solutions won’t break the bank, ensuring you can confidently move forward without jeopardizing your job prospects.

What to look for when selecting the best shampoo for passing a hair drug test

With my expertise, I will guide you on how to avoid marketing gimmicks and choose a shampoo that genuinely works for a drug test.

I will also explain how I handpicked the shampoos on my list, sharing the criteria and their importance for passing a hair drug test.

Is the product suitable?

There are many detox shampoos available. Many users of these shampoos aren’t trying to remove drug metabolites from their hair.

Instead, they want to cleanse their hair of environmental toxins. For some manufacturers, the term “detox” is just a sales pitch.

These products often focus on enhancing hair health, adding shine, and rejuvenating hair. But for your purpose, you need a shampoo that extracts drug metabolites from your hair.

It should be strong enough to get deep into the hair and dissolve any drug residues.

From my research, I’ve chosen products that effectively tackle substances like THC and other drug metabolites.

Safety first

Some shampoos and treatments use harsh ingredients, like bleach, to fight drug metabolites.

For example, the Macujo method suggests using laundry detergent and vinegar on the hair.

These treatments can harm both the hair and scalp. Users have reported discomfort, scalp burns, and significant hair damage.

If a professional notices that your hair or scalp is damaged, it might raise red flags. They could sample hair from another body part. So, it’s crucial to select a shampoo that keeps your hair and scalp healthy.

Considering bottle size

The amount of shampoo you’ll need depends on several factors. The more frequent your drug use, the more applications you’ll require.

For the best chance of success, use the shampoo at least 15 times before your drug test.

This is because extracting drug metabolites from the hair shaft is a complex process. Unlike urine tests, where you can self-test at home, hair drug tests don’t offer this convenience.

So, it’s always better to be safe. On average, people use about 10 ml of shampoo per wash. So, it’s good to have at least 150ml on hand.

Those with longer hair or dreads might need more. In my selection, I’ve made sure each product provides enough shampoo to get the job done.

hair length and how much detox shampoo is required

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Brand reputation matters

Lastly, always sift through the reviews. Ensure that the feedback is directly related to drug testing.

While many detox shampoos boast glowing reviews, they often pertain to the hair’s appearance post-use.

It’s vital to ascertain that the shampoo has a track record of helping others ace their drug tests.

In our research, we’ve spotlighted products with proven success in aiding individuals to clear hair drug tests.

Best shampoos for passing a hair drug test

Surprisingly, there are only three trustworthy drug test detox shampoos on the market that truly deliver results. Given the moral and legal implications surrounding these products, breaking into this market isn’t easy.

Yet, some companies attempt to market regular “detox shampoos” as “drug test detox shampoos.”

They bank on the idea that even if their products don’t work, few will raise a complaint, thinking, “Who would admit to trying to cheat a drug test?”

In our selection, we’ve focused solely on reliable shampoos proven to effectively remove drug metabolites from hair and help users pass drug tests.

Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo – most effective for heavy users

old style aloe toxin rid shampoo

The Old Style Aloe Toxin Rid shampoo has a longstanding reputation. It was originally made to cleanse hair of contaminants.

Later, it was found to also eliminate drug toxins. Today, it’s the most potent shampoo for passing a hair drug test.

While it’s effective alone, it’s often paired with Zydot Ultra Clean for the best results. Scientific research, like studies on PubMed, supports this claim.

This shampoo is versatile. Whether you have black hair or dreads, it works well.

Plus, it’s legal and undetectable by hair drug tests. Especially when combined with Zydot Ultra Clean, it’s a top choice for both moderate and heavy drug users.

One great feature is its gentle formula. It doesn’t harm your hair or scalp.

In fact, it has a deep-cleaning formula that’s kind to your hair. It has natural conditioners, like aloe, to keep your scalp healthy.

It’s great at flushing out toxins, including THC and cocaine. Many satisfied customers have shared glowing reviews and success stories.

Each bottle has 8 oz of shampoo, which is enough even for heavy users.

I will explain how to get the most benefits and pass a hair drug test later in this article.

In summary:

  • Works for: Heavy users, all hair colors and types, including black hair, afro hair, and dreadlocks.
  • How many times to use: 10-15
  • Approximate uses per bottle: 23
  • Effects last for: 36 hours
  • Price: $135
  • Price per oz: $16

Zydot Ultra Clean – most affordable. For light users

zydot ultra clean shampoo

Zydot Ultra Clean stands out for its affordability and effectiveness.

Scientific research shows that this shampoo can reduce drug residues in hair. Studies divided hair samples into separate strands and analyzed them before and after washing with Ultra Clean.

The results showed that while all drugs were still detectable after one Ultra Clean wash, there was a noticeable decrease in drug concentrations. For example, THC levels dropped by 36%.

For light users, one application of Zydot Ultra Clean can be enough. However, heavy users might need multiple applications.

An even better approach for heavy users is to pair it with the Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo. Dr. Bennett’s expertise suggests that this combination ensures optimal results.

This shampoo works well for black hair. However, for those with dreadlocks, a single use might not be effective. Multiple applications or pairing it with the Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo would be more beneficial.

One great feature of Zydot Ultra Clean is its gentle nature. It doesn’t harm the hair or cause scalp burns like some other products might.

In summary:

  • Works for: Light users across all hair colors and types, including black hair, afro hair, and dreadlocks.
  • How many times to use: Once.
  • Approximate uses per bottle: One.
  • Effects last for: 36 hours.
  • Price: $36.
  • Price per oz: $36.

While the two shampoos we discussed earlier are the only ones we confidently recommend for their effectiveness, safety, and reliability in preparing for a drug test, there are other popular options on the market.

Let’s dive into these, but remember, if you choose to use them, proceed with caution.

Macujo Aloe Rid Old Formula Shampoo

Macujo Aloe Rid Old Formula Shampoo

This shampoo positions itself as a contender to the Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo. It even claims to replicate the formula of the Nexxus Old Formula detox shampoo. While it might be suitable for moderate users, the reviews are a mixed bag.

Interestingly, the official instructions suggest using this shampoo exclusively with the Macujo method.

The Macujo method, which involves vinegar and bleach, can seriously harm both your hair and scalp. So, tread carefully.

Another point to consider is that the official guidelines recommend using this shampoo up to 20 times before a drug test.

However, a single bottle only provides enough for about 17 uses.

This means you’ll likely need two bottles, which, when considering the price per ounce, makes it more expensive than the Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo.

In summary:

  • Works for: Moderate users across all hair types, including dreads.
  • How many times to use: Up to 20.
  • Approximate uses per bottle: 17.
  • Effects last for: 36 hours.
  • Price: $170.
  • Price per oz: $28.

Stinger Folli-Kleen Intense Hair Cleanser

Stinger folli-kleen intense hair cleanser

This shampoo is occasionally promoted as a solution for passing hair drug tests. However, we couldn’t find any specific claims about this on the official website. Moreover, the reviews lean more towards the negative side.

The official website describes the Stinger Folli-Kleen Hair Cleanser as a product designed for a deep and thorough cleanse.

But the price point, especially the discounted rate on platforms like Amazon, raises eyebrows.

Coupled with less-than-stellar reviews, it might be effective for those who’ve only had a one-time encounter with weed. But again, if you’re considering this option, it’s at your own risk.

In summary:

  • Works for: Possibly for one-time users.
  • How many times to use: Once.
  • Approximate uses per bottle: 5.
  • Effects last for: 36 hours.
  • Price: $34 (or $17 on Amazon).
  • Price per oz: $17.

High Voltage Detox Shampoo

High Voltage Detox Shampoo

When it comes to affordability, High Voltage Detox Shampoo stands out. It’s one of the most budget-friendly options available, with a price tag of just $17 on Amazon.

However, as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” The reviews for this shampoo are less than stellar.

We’d suggest that this shampoo might be effective for those who’ve had a one-time encounter with substances like weed.

But, as always, if you’re considering this option, proceed with caution.

In summary:

  • Works for: Possibly for one-time users.
  • How many times to use: Once.
  • Approximate uses per bottle: 5.
  • Effects last for: 36 hours.
  • Price: $34 (or $17 on Amazon).
  • Price per oz: $17.

Using detox shampoo to pass a hair drug test: A step-by-step guide

Navigating drug testing can be daunting, but I am here to guide you with my extensive background in pharmacology and drug testing.

If you’re using Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo and Zydot Ultra Clean Shampoo to pass a drug test, here’s a simple step-by-step guide.

For light or occasional users, using just the Zydot Ultra Clean Shampoo on the test day might be enough.

Start this regimen 3-10 days before your test. If short on time, take multiple showers a day.

For best results, use the shampoo at least 15 times before your test. During each wash, let the shampoo sit for 10 to 15 minutes.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Start with your regular shampoo. Rinse thoroughly.
  • Apply a dime-sized portion of the Old Style Aloe Toxin Rid Shampoo. Let it soak for a bit, then rinse.
  • Use your regular conditioner. Focus on the scalp, where most toxins reside. Remove all the older layers of oil that might trap toxins.

On the day of your test, follow these steps with Zydot Ultra Clean:

Initial Wash: Wet your hair thoroughly. Use half of the Zydot shampoo (you’ll use the other half later). Massage into your scalp and hair for about 10 minutes, working it into a lather. Rinse with lukewarm water.

Purifying: Apply all of the purifier, focusing especially on the hair closest to the scalp. Use a new comb to comb through your hair. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Second Wash: Repeat the initial wash using the remaining half of the Zydot shampoo. Massage into your scalp and hair for another 10 minutes, then rinse.

Conditioning: Apply all of the conditioner, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Comb through your hair once more. Let it sit for about 3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Once you’re done, style your hair as you usually would. And there you have it—a comprehensive guide to using detox shampoos effectively.

Tips for passing a hair drug test

If you’re gearing up for a hair drug test, preparation is key. First and foremost, it’s crucial to stop using drugs at least 48 hours before starting the shampoo regimen.

This pause ensures that new drug metabolites don’t find their way into your hair. Additionally, be cautious about items that have previously been in contact with your hair, like pillowcases, hats, beanies, and headbands.

These could accidentally reintroduce toxins. And remember, after about three days, drugs can be deposited into newly grown hair shafts, so manage your time wisely.

DIY solutions for hair follicle tests

The Macujo Method

What you’ll need

  • Macujo Aloe Rid old formula shampoo or Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo
  • Heinz Vinegar
  • Tide Liquid Laundry Detergent
  • Clean and Clear Deep Cleaning Pink Astringent
  • Zydot ultra clean
  • Arm & Hammer Baking Soda

Step-by-step guide

Begin by soaking your hair in white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for about 30 minutes. This process aims to open the scales on your hair cuticle, granting easier access to the cortex.

Next, apply the Clean and Clear Astringent with salicylic acid to your hair.

Let it sit, covered with a shower cap, for another 30 minutes. This step is believed to permeate the cortex and neutralize THC. Ensure you massage it thoroughly into your hair.

Once you’re done massaging, keep your hair soaked under the shower cap.

Rinse out the acid and vinegar from your hair.

Then, apply Tide detergent and let it sit for an hour.

Finally, rinse out everything from your hair and apply conditioner. Let it sit for 10 minutes under a shower cap. This step helps restore some moisture to your hair and ensures it doesn’t feel overly dry or damaged.

A few things to note

While the Macujo method is popular, it’s essential to understand that the Zydot ultra clean and Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo are effective even without the other ingredients. In essence, this method might be a bit of overkill.

Using Tide laundry detergent, in particular, can be harsh on your hair and scalp.

It’s a pretty aggressive treatment, and there’s a good chance your hair might feel damaged afterward. If the drug test collector notices this damage, they might opt to take hair samples from another part of your body.

So, proceed with caution and be informed about the potential risks.

Jerry G method for passing a hair drug test

Navigating a hair drug test can be tricky, but there are methods out there that people have tried with varying degrees of success. One such method is the Jerry G method. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

What you’ll need

  • A permanent dye containing ammonia
  • Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo
  • Baking soda

Before diving into the method, it’s essential to stop using THC-containing substances and other drugs at least 10 days before your scheduled hair follicle drug test.

Start by dyeing your hair with a permanent dye that contains ammonia.

While ammonia can be irritating, it’s crucial in this method as it helps open the hair cuticle, which is key to flushing out drug toxins.

However, a word of caution: if you naturally have dark hair and you drastically change its color, it might raise suspicions.

After dyeing, wash your hair using the Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo.

Ensure you rinse it out thoroughly. Let your hair air dry naturally, as using a blow dryer might further damage your hair, which is already vulnerable from the dyeing process.

Wait for 10 days, then repeat the dyeing and washing steps.

The day before your screening, prepare a thick paste using baking soda. Apply this paste generously to each strand of your hair. This paste helps neutralize any acidic substances. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.

Rinse out the baking soda paste using the Old Style Aloe Toxin Rid Shampoo. It’s essential to massage your hair and scalp thoroughly to ensure all baking soda residues are washed out.

For good measure, give your hair one final wash with the toxin rid shampoo.

A few things to consider

While the Jerry G method incorporates the use of Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo, which is effective on its own, the method itself might be overkill.

The use of ammonia in dyes can be harsh, potentially damaging your hair and scalp.

This “scalp-melting” treatment might leave your hair in a fragile state.

If the drug test collector notices the damage, they might opt to take hair samples from another part of your body. So, as always, proceed with caution and be informed about potential risks.

DIY methods: Are they worth the risk?

We’ve come across various DIY methods from sources like Reddit that claim to help pass hair drug tests.

However, it’s essential to approach these methods with caution.

Many of these DIY treatments can have severe side effects, especially when it comes to the health and appearance of your hair and scalp.

For many, especially women, damaging their hair can be a devastating experience. Here’s what some folks have shared about their experiences with these DIY methods:

  • “Wouldn’t wish that process on my worst enemy.”
  • “The relaxer really irritates your scalp after the macujo.”
  • “Bleach makes the scalp burn like hell and causes significant hair/scalp damage.”
  • “These are some crazy scalp-melting treatments.”
  • “After damaging my hair, I felt like my life was RUINED.”
  • “After my test, I decided to cut my hair. I didn’t want to look like Patchy the Pirate, so I opted for a bald fade.”
  • “I had dandruff, and pieces of my scalp were falling out for about a week and a half afterward.”

Given these experiences, we strongly recommend opting for drug test shampoos that are both safe and proven to work without causing harm to your hair or scalp.

Conclusion

Our top recommendation is the Toxin Rid Old Style Aloe Shampoo in combination with Zydot Ultra Clean.

This combination offers the most effective and reliable solution for passing a hair drug test. For light users, the Zydot Ultra Clean alone can be a dependable solution.

Always think about the consequences of failing a drug test.

The repercussions of not passing can be significant, so it’s crucial to avoid shortcuts or settling for less effective methods.

Your hair’s health and your future opportunities are worth investing in the best solutions available.

Understanding hair detox shampoos

The hair shaft is typically made up of two or three layers: the cuticle (the outer layer), the cortex (the middle layer), and in some cases, the medulla (the innermost layer).

hair structure

The cuticle, with its scale-like overlapping cells, acts as a protective layer for your hair.

Hair detox shampoos are designed to open this tough cuticle layer.

Once the cuticle is opened, the cortex becomes accessible, allowing toxins deep within the follicles to be removed.

A quality hair detox shampoo doesn’t just cleanse; it also contains conditioning ingredients like aloe vera, salicylic acid, and propylene glycol.

These agents help seal the cuticle layer back, smoothing the hair strand surface, making your hair feel softer and look shinier.

The hair drug test process

It’s essential to understand the hair drug test procedure step by step, so you can approach it confidently and avoid any missteps. The test might be conducted in a lab, a hospital, or even at your workplace using a kit that’s later sent to a laboratory. Here’s what typically happens:

  1. A clinical manager will verify your ID.
  2. They’ll explain the procedure to you.
  3. They’ll discreetly take a hair sample from the back of your head.
  4. Using sanitized shears, they’ll cut about 1.5 inches of your hair, close to the root. Since hair grows roughly 0.5 inches a month, this sample can reveal drug usage over the past three months.
  5. The hair sample is then placed in foil and sealed in an envelope.
  6. This envelope is sent to a lab for analysis.
  7. You can expect results to be relayed to the requesting entity within 3-5 business days.

Why detox shampoos are our top recommendation

While there are various remedies out there, like the Macujo and Jerry G methods, we advise caution.

These methods often involve harsh substances like bleach and vinegar, which can severely damage both your hair and scalp.

For many, especially women, this damage can be distressing. And the discomfort doesn’t end there; a damaged scalp can itch and hurt.

Here’s what some individuals have said about these methods:

“Wouldn’t wish that process on my worst enemy.”
“The relaxer really irritates your scalp after the Macujo.”
“Bleach makes the scalp burn terribly and causes significant hair and scalp damage.”
“These are some intense scalp treatments.”
“After damaging my hair, I felt like my life was over.”
“Post-test, I felt compelled to cut my hair; I didn’t want to look like Patchy the Pirate.”
“I had dandruff, and pieces of my scalp were shedding for over a week.”

Another consideration is that those collecting hair samples are well-aware of these DIY methods.

They know people sometimes try to cheat the test. If they notice damaged hair or scalp, it can raise suspicions.

In such cases, they might opt to take hair samples from other parts of your body, like your hand or armpit.

This is why we advocate for shampoos specifically designed to safely and effectively remove drug metabolites from the hair. They’re proven to work without the harmful side effects.

FAQ

Do shampoos work for hair follicle drug tests?

Absolutely, but it’s essential to note that not all shampoos are effective. You’ll want to use shampoos specifically formulated to eliminate drug metabolites within the hair shaft. We’ve provided detailed recommendations in this article to guide you.

How long does the effect of a detox shampoo last after washing?

Detox shampoos designed for drug tests permanently remove drug metabolites from the hair shaft. However, as your hair continues to grow, new drug metabolites from your bloodstream can be deposited into the newly grown hair.

Considering that healthy hair grows at about 0.5 inches per month, roughly 1mm of hair containing drug metabolites will appear in just 3 days.

Therefore, it’s advisable to undergo hair detox no more than 3 days before your drug test.

Can Selsun Blue help pass a hair drug test?

Regular detox shampoos aren’t designed to remove drug metabolites for drug tests.

We haven’t found any reliable evidence suggesting that Selsun Blue shampoo aids in passing a drug test. It’s crucial to consider the ramifications of failing a hair drug test and to opt for products with a proven track record.

Is Zydot detectable in a hair test?

Hair drug tests don’t specifically search for signs of detox shampoos. Hence, products like Zydot Ultra Clear and other drug test detox shampoos aren’t detectable.

However, home remedies like the Macujo and Jerry G methods, which use bleach, vinegar, and ammonia dye, can damage the hair and scalp.

If a drug test collector notices this damage, they might become suspicious and opt to take hair samples from other parts of your body.

Will bleaching hair affect a hair drug test?

Yes, bleaching can significantly damage both the hair and scalp. If a drug test collector observes this damage, it might raise suspicions, leading them to collect hair samples from other body parts.

Can I use home remedies, like bleaching, to pass a hair follicle test?

While there are several methods like the Macujo and Jerry G methods discussed on platforms like Reddit, they often involve harsh substances like bleach, vinegar, and ammonia dye.

While these might help eliminate drug metabolites, they also damage the hair and scalp. If a collector notices this damage, it could lead to suspicions and alternative sample collection.

What drugs can hair tests detect?

Hair drug tests typically screen for:

  • Amphetamines (including methamphetamine and ecstasy)
  • Marijuana metabolites
  • Cocaine and its metabolites
  • Opiates (like codeine, morphine, and 6-acetylmorphine)
  • Opioids (including oxycodone, oxymorphone, hydrocodone, and hydromorphone)
  • Phencyclidine (PCP)

Can a lab determine when the drugs were consumed?

Hair drug tests typically use a 3-inch hair sample, reflecting approximately 3 months of growth.

While the test can determine drug use within this window, it doesn’t specify when within those 3 months the drugs were consumed.

However, by cutting the hair sample into smaller segments and testing them individually, it’s possible to pinpoint more specific time frames.

This approach is more costly and isn’t standard practice.