Blonde hair turning green after a swim is a common summertime woe. But don’t panic! This unsightly tint isn’t permanent and can be easily remedied with a few simple tricks. This article will guide you through the causes of green hair and provide effective solutions to restore your blonde locks to their former glory.

Why Does Blonde Hair Turn Green in the Pool?

The culprit isn’t chlorine itself, but copper. Copper is often found in pool water, either from algaecides or corroding pipes. It oxidizes and binds to the protein in your hair, causing that dreaded green tinge, especially noticeable in lighter hair colors like blonde. Other minerals, such as iron, can also contribute to discoloration, but copper is the primary offender.

Effective Remedies for Green Hair

Clarifying Shampoo: Your First Line of Defense

A clarifying shampoo is specially formulated to remove product buildup, minerals, and other impurities from your hair. This is often the quickest and easiest way to banish the green.

1. Wet your hair thoroughly.
2. Apply a generous amount of clarifying shampoo.
3. Lather well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
4. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.

DIY Remedies: Kitchen Cupboard Solutions

If clarifying shampoo doesn’t completely do the trick, several household items can help neutralize the green.

• Tomato Paste/Ketchup: The acidity of tomatoes can help break down the copper molecules. Apply it to your hair, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.
• Baking Soda Paste: Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to your damp hair. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse and shampoo.
• Lemon Juice: Diluted lemon juice can also help lighten the green tint. Apply it to your hair, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse and condition. Caution: Lemon juice can be drying, so use it sparingly.

Professional Treatments: When DIY Doesn’t Cut It

For persistent green discoloration, consider visiting a salon. Professional treatments can effectively remove the green and restore your hair’s health.

“For stubborn cases, a professional chelating treatment can be very effective in removing mineral buildup,” says renowned hair stylist, Sarah Johnson, owner of Luxe Hair Salon in New York. “These treatments are specifically designed to bind to and remove metals like copper from the hair shaft.”

Preventing Green Hair: Proactive Measures

Prevention is always better than cure! Here are some tips to protect your blonde hair from turning green:

• Wet your hair before swimming: Saturating your hair with clean water before entering the pool reduces the absorption of pool water and minimizes mineral buildup.
• Use a leave-in conditioner: This creates a barrier between your hair and the pool water.
• Wear a swim cap: This is the most effective way to prevent your hair from coming into contact with pool chemicals.
• Shower immediately after swimming: Rinsing your hair thoroughly with clean water after swimming removes any lingering chlorine and minerals.

Conclusion

Green hair from the pool is a frustrating but fixable problem. By understanding the cause and implementing the remedies outlined in this article – from clarifying shampoos and DIY solutions to professional treatments and preventative measures – you can keep your blonde locks looking their best all summer long. Don’t let a little green ruin your fun in the sun!

FAQs

1. How long does it take for green hair to fade naturally? It can take several washes, but using the methods described here will speed up the process significantly.

2. Can green hair be prevented entirely? While it’s difficult to guarantee complete prevention, the preventative measures mentioned significantly reduce the risk.

3. Is green hair damaging? While unsightly, it’s generally not damaging.

4. Can I swim with colored hair? Yes, but it’s crucial to take extra precautions like using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner.

5. What if none of these remedies work? Consult a professional hair stylist for specialized treatment options.

6. Why is my blonde hair turning green even though I don’t swim in pools? Copper can be present in your shower water too!

7. What kind of clarifying shampoo should I use? Choose one specifically formulated for removing chlorine and minerals.

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