How to Know If Your Hair Extensions Are Actually Human

Let’s cut to the truth: not all “human hair” is really human. Some bundles are mixed with synthetic fibers. Some are coated in silicone to look shiny. And some — well, they’re just straight-up fake.

So how can you tell the difference?

Whether you bought extensions online, at a salon, or from your friend’s cousin’s boutique,  here are 3 real ways to tell if your hair is actually human.


1. The Heat Test

Take a small strand and run a straightener or curling iron over it.

  • Human hair will respond like natural hair — it’ll curl, straighten, and even smell a bit like burning hair if overheated.

  • Fake hair often melts, shrinks, or smells like plastic.

 Don’t overdo it. Just a light pass is enough to reveal the truth.


2. The Burn Test (If You Dare)

Snip a small piece from a bundle and burn it safely with a lighter (outside or over a sink).

  • Human hair burns slowly, smells like real hair, and turns into ash.

  • Synthetic hair melts quickly, smells like chemicals, and forms a hard plastic ball.

Not ready to set fire to your bundles? We don’t blame you. But it’s one of the oldest tests in the game.


3. The Water Test

Soak a strand in water.

  • Real human hair absorbs water and becomes heavier.

  • Synthetic fibers often float or resist absorption.

It’s a quick way to feel the density difference and see how the hair behaves in moisture.


Or Skip the Tests — And Trust Crown & Silk

At Crown & Silk, we do all the hard work so you don’t have to guess. Here's how we ensure every bundle is 100% real, premium human hair:

Ethical, Verified Sourcing Only

We source directly from trusted partners in India, Cambodia, and Vietnam. We know where every strand comes from.

Triple-Check Quality Control

Before your hair ships, we:

  1. Inspect the cuticles (they must be intact and aligned).

  2. Test for shedding, tangling, and strand strength.

  3. Check texture authenticity and softness.

Every bundle is also double drawn and hand-finished for that thick, luxury feel from root to tip.

No Fillers. No Blends. No B.S.

We never use synthetic fillers, never mix donor hair with plastics, and never label something as raw or virgin unless it truly is.

When you buy from us, you know exactly what’s in your bundles — and more importantly, what isn’t.

Hair extensions are an investment, and you deserve to know what you’re buying. So yes, there are tests. But when you shop with Crown & Silk, you won’t need them.

Because we’ve already tested everything for you.