Blond Hair Turning Green in the Pool: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions

Keep Your Locks Looking Lovely by Understanding the Reasons Behind the Green Tint and How to Address It

Introduction

For many blond swimmers, experiencing a green tint to their hair after swimming in the pool can be an unwelcome surprise. Although it may seem like a mysterious phenomenon, there is a simple explanation behind this discoloration. In this article, we’ll discuss the cause of blond hair turning green in the pool, effective prevention methods, and solutions to restore your hair to its natural color.

Causes of Green Hair in the Pool

The primary cause of blond hair turning green in the pool is the presence of copper in the water. Copper can be introduced into the pool water through various sources, such as copper-based algaecides or corroding pool equipment. When copper ions come into contact with the proteins in your hair, they can bind together, resulting in a greenish hue. Also some alternative to  chemical treatments contain trace amounts of copper that can build up in the water over time.

Preventing Green Hair in the Pool

1. Proper Pool Maintenance: Regularly test your pool water chemistry and maintain balanced levels. If you find high levels of copper, use a metal sequestrant to help bind and remove the copper from the water.
2. Use a Swimming Cap: Wearing a swimming cap can help protect your hair from coming into contact with copper ions in the pool water.
3. Pre-Swim Rinse: Wetting your hair with fresh water before swimming can help to minimize the absorption of pool water and copper ions.
4. Apply a Leave-In Conditioner: Applying a leave-in conditioner or oil, such as coconut oil, before swimming can create a barrier that helps protect your hair from absorbing copper ions.

Solutions for Green Hair

1. Clarifying Shampoo: Use a clarifying shampoo designed to remove mineral deposits, such as copper, from your hair. These shampoos can help to lift away the green hue.
2. Lemon Juice or Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Both lemon juice and apple cider vinegar have acidic properties that can help dissolve copper ions from your hair. Mix equal parts water and lemon juice or apple cider vinegar and apply the solution to your hair. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse and shampoo as usual.
3. Tomato Juice Treatment: Tomato juice contains natural acids that can help neutralize the green tint in your hair. Apply tomato juice to your hair, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then rinse and shampoo as usual.
4. Professional Help: If the green tint in your hair is particularly stubborn, consider visiting a professional hair salon for a specialized treatment or advice on restoring your hair’s natural color.

Conclusion

Blond hair turning green in the pool is primarily caused by copper ions binding to hair proteins. By understanding the cause, you can take steps to prevent this discoloration through proper pool maintenance and pre-swim hair care. If your hair does turn green, there are several effective solutions to restore your hair to its natural color. With these prevention methods and solutions in hand, you can confidently enjoy your time in the pool without worrying about your hair turning green.