Have you ever noticed a strange green hue in your hair after a day spent in the pool? Chlorine from swimming pools and other chemicals can drastically alter the color of blond hair, leaving it with an unpleasant and unsightly greenish tint. Do not despair – there are simple methods to bypass this common pool-side problem and restoring your blond locks to their pre-swim shimmer and glory.
What Causes Blond Hair to Turn Green?
Chlorine, copper and other minerals found in the water immediately interact with the proteins in hair and skin, which is why they turn green. Blond hair is especially prone to this type of discoloration because the protein in lighter-colored hair is weaker, making it absorb color more easily and quickly.
Chlorine
One of the most common causes of green-tinted hair is chlorine. Chlorine is used to disinfect water and keep pools clean, and works by removing dead skin cells and other organic material from the water. When it is released from the water, it binds itself to proteins from the hair, altering its natural color and making it appear green.
Copper
Copper is another common culprit that causes blond hair to turn green. It is found in most water supplies, and is released from metal pipes and other fixtures containing copper. Like chlorine, it binds to the proteins in the hair, rendering it a greenish tint. Copper is especially dangerous to lighter-colored hair, as the proteins in the hair absorb it more easily.
Chemical Treatments
Chemical treatments such as bleaching, highlighting or dyeing can also cause blond hair to turn green. These treatments strip the hair of its natural color, which makes it more susceptible to discoloration. When combined with chlorine or copper, they make the hair “green” much faster.
How to Avoid Green Hair
Fortunately, there are a few simple methods you can use to protect blond hair from turning green:
Shower Before Swimming
Always shower before swimming. This will help clear the hair and skin of chlorine, copper and other chemicals that cause the greenish hue. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to get rid of any residue. It is also a good idea to apply a moisturizing conditioner to the hair before swimming to minimize the absorption of the chemicals.
Wear a Swimming Cap
Wear a swimming cap. This will help keep the hair from becoming wet and absorbing chemicals from the water. It is especially important for those with chemical treatments, as the chlorine and copper in the water can interact with the chemicals and cause the green tint.
Use a Chlorine-Removal Shampoo
Using a chlorine-removal shampoo is a great way to keep blond hair from turning green. The shampoo contains special enzymes that bind to the chlorine and copper in the hair, thus preventing it from discoloring. Also, make sure to rinse the hair with cold water after a swim to help prevent the chlorine from settling in.
People Also Ask
What causes blond hair to turn green?
Blond hair turns green when it comes into contact with chlorine and copper found in swimming pools. Chemical treatments and minerals such as copper found in pipes and fixtures also causes it to turn green.
Can you reverse blonde hair turning green?
Yes! It is possible to reverse blonde hair turning green using chlorine-removal shampoo, cold water and by showering before swimming. Wearing a swimming cap also helps prevent the hair from absorbing chemicals from the water.
How can I lighten green hair?
Green hair can be lightened by using a special clarifying shampoo followed by a purple hair toner. The toner will help to remove any unwanted green tints from the hair.
What should I do if my hair goes green?
If your hair goes green, it is probably a result of contact with chlorine and copper or other treatments. To fix this, use a chlorine removal shampoo and rinse with cold water. To prevent future greening, shower before swimming and wear a swimming cap in the pool.
Final Words
Blond hair turning green is an all too common result of spending time in the pool, but it doesn’t have to ruin your summer days. With a few simple precautions, you can keep your hair looking great and avoid any embarrassing green hues. So don’t be afraid to jump in the pool and enjoy the summer days – with just a little bit of diligence, you can easily keep your hair looking its best.