Can DNA Tests be carried on samples of hair?
We can do hair DNA testing if there is enough of it: at least five strands are needed to yield sufficient DNA to test. It is even better if the hair has the root, or follicles, attached and if it has been freshly pulled. The longer the hair has been out of the head, the more of the DNA is destroyed. Cut hair cannot be used for testing unless you are doing an mt-DNA test. If you must provide hair, send at least five strands complete with roots and freshly plucked from the subject’s head.
