Chlorine in swimming pools can wreak havoc on your hair, leaving it with an unsightly green tint. This isn't just an aesthetic issue; the chlorine can also damage your hair's structure, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to fix green hair from chlorine, offering various solutions and preventative measures.
Why Does Chlorine Turn Hair Green?
Before diving into solutions, understanding the cause is crucial. Chlorine reacts with the metals present in your hair (especially copper), creating a greenish discoloration. This is more common in individuals with lighter hair colors, especially blonde or gray hair, as the lighter pigments are more susceptible to this reaction. Factors like the level of chlorine in the pool and the amount of time spent swimming also play a role.
How to Get Rid of Green Hair from Chlorine: A Step-by-Step Approach
Several methods can help remove the green hue from your hair, ranging from simple at-home remedies to professional treatments. Here's a breakdown of effective approaches:
1. Clarifying Shampoo: The First Line of Defense
A clarifying shampoo is often the first step in tackling green hair. These shampoos are designed to remove product buildup, minerals, and chlorine from your hair. Apply it to wet hair, lather thoroughly, and rinse completely. You might need to repeat this process a few times. Remember to follow up with a conditioner, as clarifying shampoos can be drying.
2. Baking Soda Paste: A Natural Remedy
A paste of baking soda and water is a popular home remedy for green hair. Mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a thick paste. Apply it to the affected areas of your hair, let it sit for about 15-20 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Again, condition your hair afterward to restore moisture.
3. Vitamin C Treatment: A Powerful Antioxidant
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help neutralize chlorine and its effects. Crush several vitamin C tablets and mix them with your regular shampoo or conditioner. Apply the mixture to your hair, let it sit for about 30 minutes, and rinse. This treatment can be quite effective, but remember to perform a patch test before applying it to your entire head to check for any allergic reactions.
4. Professional Hair Treatments: When Home Remedies Fail
If home remedies fail to remove the green tint, consider visiting a professional hairstylist. They have access to stronger treatments and can better assess the damage to your hair. They might use specialized color-correcting products or other professional techniques to restore your hair's natural color.
Preventing Green Hair: Proactive Measures
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are several ways to protect your hair from chlorine damage:
1. Wet Your Hair Before Swimming: Less Chlorine Absorption
Wetting your hair with clean water before entering the pool creates a barrier, preventing your hair from absorbing as much chlorine.
2. Use a Swim Cap: A Physical Barrier
Wearing a swim cap is an effective way to minimize chlorine exposure.
3. Use a Leave-in Conditioner: Protective Layer
Applying a leave-in conditioner before swimming creates a protective layer around your hair strands, reducing chlorine absorption.
4. Rinse Your Hair Thoroughly After Swimming: Removing Chlorine Residue
Thoroughly rinsing your hair after swimming is crucial for removing chlorine residue and preventing discoloration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to remove green hair from chlorine?
The time it takes to remove green hair varies depending on the severity of the discoloration and the treatment method used. Simple clarifying shampoos might remove minor discoloration quickly, while more stubborn cases may require multiple treatments.
Can I use bleach to remove green hair?
While bleach can lighten hair, using it to remove green tints is generally not recommended. It can cause further damage to your already compromised hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
Will the green color come back?
If you don't take preventative measures, the green color can reappear after repeated exposure to chlorine.
Is it damaging to repeatedly use clarifying shampoo?
While clarifying shampoos are effective, overuse can be drying. It’s best to use them sparingly and always follow up with a good conditioner.
By following these tips and addressing the issue promptly, you can effectively eliminate green hair from chlorine and maintain healthy, vibrant locks. Remember to always prioritize hair health and choose treatments that suit your hair type and condition.
