Introduction
Have you ever come out of the pool and looked in the mirror to see a greenish tint in your hair? This is a common problem for swimmers and can be frustrating to deal with, especially if you have light-colored or treated hair. In this article, we’ll explore various solutions to get rid of green tones in your hair, from DIY remedies to professional salon services. Our goal is to provide effective and safe solutions to help you regain your hair’s natural color.
DIY Remedies
One of the first things you can do to remove green tones from your hair is to use DIY remedies, which are simple and cost-effective. Some of the most popular options include baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice. These remedies work by neutralizing the chlorine that has turned your hair green.
To use baking soda, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your hair and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse your hair with warm water and shampoo as usual. For vinegar and lemon juice remedies, mix either solution with enough water to dilute it. Apply to your hair and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse your hair with warm water and shampoo as usual.
It’s important to note that these remedies can dry out your hair, so it’s essential to deep condition your hair afterward to avoid any potential damage. Additionally, it’s best to test these remedies on a small section of hair first to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.
Use a Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove stubborn buildup, including chlorine, from your hair. They should be used once a week to prevent damage to your hair. You can use clarifying shampoos regularly if you swim often. They work by deeply cleansing your hair and scalp, removing any residue from chlorine, and restoring your hair’s natural vitality.
Some of the best clarifying shampoos available in the market include Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo, Kenra Clarifying Shampoo, and Paul Mitchell Clarifying Shampoo. Different clarifying shampoos cater to specific hair types, so make sure to choose one that suits your hair’s needs.
Professional Salon Services
If DIY solutions and clarifying shampoos don’t work, you may want to consider seeking professional help from a salon. Salons that offer specialized services to treat green tones will usually have experienced professionals who can safely and effectively remove these tones from your hair. Some of the specialized salon solutions include color correction and hair detox treatments.
This option can be expensive, but it’s worth it if you want to make sure your hair is treated properly. Some of the highly recommended salon services for treating green tones include Olaplex, Redken Shades EQ, and Wella Color Charm.
Hair Masks and Conditioning Treatments
Deep conditioning hair masks and conditioning treatments can help to restore hair after being exposed to chlorine. They work by nourishing your hair and adding moisture to help prevent breakage and damage. Using hair masks regularly can help to maintain the health of your hair and prevent future occurrences of green tones.
You can make a hair mask at home using ingredients such as coconut oil, honey, and avocado. To make a hair mask, mix equal parts of these ingredients together and apply to wet hair. Let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing out with warm water. A great option for conditioning treatments is the Moroccanoil Treatment, which is rich in vitamins and antioxidants and effectively hydrates hair.
The Science Behind Chlorine Greening
Chlorine is a chemical that is used to disinfect water in swimming pools, but it can have a negative effect on hair, especially light-colored hair. Red, blonde, and highlighted hair are more prone to turning green, as chlorine can oxidize the copper in the hair causing a greenish tint. Understanding the science behind this problem can help you prevent and treat it in the future.
One way to prevent green hair is to wet your hair thoroughly before getting into the pool. A properly hydrated hair strand is less likely to absorb chlorine. Additionally, you can use a leave-in conditioner to add extra protection to your hair while swimming.
The Best Swimmers’ Hair Routine
Establishing a hair routine is an effective way to prevent future occurrences of green tones. Before swimming, apply a leave-in conditioner or oil to your hair to provide a barrier between your hair and chlorine. Wear a swimming cap or tie your hair back to reduce your hair’s exposure to chlorine.
After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water and use a clarifying shampoo to remove any chlorine buildup. Deep condition your hair with a hair mask to hydrate your hair and keep it healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Hair
Here are answers to some common questions people have about green hair:
Q: Why does chlorine turn hair green?
A: Chlorine oxidizes the copper in hair, which creates a greenish tint.
Q: How can I prevent green hair?
A: Wet your hair before swimming, wear a swimming cap or tie your hair back, and use a leave-in conditioner or oil to create a barrier between your hair and chlorine.
Q: What should I do if my hair turns green?
A: Try DIY remedies such as baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice, use a clarifying shampoo, or seek professional help from a salon.
Conclusion
Green tones in hair can be frustrating, but there are multiple solutions to this problem. From DIY remedies to professional salon services, there are plenty of options available to help you regain your hair’s natural color. Remember to hydrate your hair before swimming, use a leave-in conditioner, and deep condition your hair regularly to keep it healthy and prevent future occurrences. Don’t hesitate to try these solutions one by one until you find the one that works best for you.
Additional tip: After swimming, rinse your hair with tap water before shampooing it. This allows the tap water to work its magic before the chlorine is removed by the shampoo.
