Chlorine in swimming pools can wreak havoc on your hair, especially if you're a blonde or have lightened hair. That unsightly green tinge is a common problem, but thankfully, it's usually fixable. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to tackling chlorine-damaged hair and restoring its natural vibrancy.
What Causes Green Hair from Chlorine?
Before diving into solutions, understanding the root cause is crucial. Green hair isn't actually caused by the chlorine itself; instead, it's a reaction between chlorine, copper, and the proteins in your hair. Many pool systems contain copper as an algaecide. When copper interacts with chlorine, it forms a compound that binds to the hair's keratin, resulting in that unpleasant green hue.
How to Prevent Green Hair from Chlorine
Prevention is always better than cure! Here are some proactive steps to minimize the risk of green hair:
- Wet your hair before swimming: This helps your hair absorb less chlorine and copper.
- Use a leave-in conditioner: A good conditioner creates a barrier, protecting your hair from chlorine and mineral buildup.
- Wear a swim cap: This is the most effective way to shield your hair from the pool's chemicals.
- Rinse thoroughly after swimming: Immediately wash your hair with cool water to remove chlorine and copper residues. A clarifying shampoo (more on that below) can be helpful here.
How to Get Rid of Green Hair from Chlorine
If you already have green hair, don't worry; several methods can help restore your hair's natural color. The best approach often depends on the severity of the discoloration and your hair type.
1. Clarifying Shampoo:
This is often the first line of defense. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup, minerals, and chlorine from your hair. Look for a shampoo that specifically mentions removing chlorine or mineral buildup. Wash your hair thoroughly with the clarifying shampoo, paying close attention to the green areas. Repeat if necessary, and follow up with a deep conditioner.
2. Vitamin C Treatment:
Many people swear by this home remedy. Crush several Vitamin C tablets (ascorbic acid) and mix them with a clarifying shampoo or conditioner. Apply the mixture to your hair, focusing on the green areas, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. The Vitamin C helps to break down the copper compounds.
3. Tomato Paste Treatment:
Another popular home remedy involves applying tomato paste directly to the affected areas. Tomato paste is mildly acidic and can help remove the green discoloration. Let it sit for approximately 20-30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
4. Baking Soda Paste:
Combine baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply this to your green hair and leave it for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing well. Baking soda can be slightly harsh, so follow up with a deep conditioner.
5. Commercial Products:
Several products are specifically formulated to remove chlorine stains from hair. These typically contain specialized ingredients designed to lift the discoloration without damaging your hair.
What if Home Remedies Don't Work?
If the green tinge persists after trying several home remedies, consider consulting a professional hairstylist. They may have access to stronger treatments or be able to offer color correction services to remove the green completely.
How Often Should I Treat My Hair After Swimming?
Ideally, you should rinse your hair with cool water and use a clarifying shampoo after every swim. If you’re experiencing green hair frequently, consider a deep conditioning treatment once or twice a week to maintain hair health and prevent future discoloration.
Can I prevent green hair with a color-safe shampoo?
While a color-safe shampoo won't directly prevent green hair, it helps maintain the health and vibrancy of your hair color, making it less susceptible to chlorine damage. Using a color-safe shampoo alongside the other preventative measures is highly recommended.
Will bleaching my hair remove the green?
Bleaching your hair might remove the green tint but could also cause further damage, especially if you've already used harsh chemicals or treatments. It's generally advisable to try gentler methods first.
Does the type of hair dye affect the likelihood of green hair?
While all hair types are susceptible, lighter hair colors, particularly blonde and bleached hair, are more prone to showing chlorine discoloration. The porous nature of lightened hair allows copper compounds to more readily attach.
By following these preventative measures and employing the appropriate treatment methods, you can keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant, even after a refreshing swim. Remember to choose the approach best suited to your hair type and the severity of the discoloration.
