Swimming in a pool can be a refreshing way to beat the heat, but for many people, it comes with an unexpected side effect: green hair. This is especially common among individuals with light-colored or chemically treated hair. If you’ve ever emerged from the water only to find your blonde or light-brown locks looking more like seaweed, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons why pool water can turn your hair green, how to prevent it, and what to do if it happens.
Why Does Pool Water Turn Hair Green?
Contrary to popular belief, chlorine itself isn’t the culprit behind green hair. The real offender is oxidized metals, particularly copper, found in pool water. Copper can enter pool water from several sources:
- Algaecides: Many pools use copper-based algaecides to prevent algae growth.
- Plumbing Systems: Copper pipes can leach metal into the water.
- Natural Presence: Trace amounts of metals can be naturally present in water supplies, especially well water.
When chlorine reacts with these dissolved metals, it oxidizes them, causing the copper ions to bind to the proteins in your hair shaft. This chemical reaction results in a greenish tint, which is more noticeable on lighter hair colors.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Some people are more prone to green hair than others. Factors that increase your risk include:
- Light Hair Colors
- Blonde and light-brown hair show discoloration more visibly.
- Chemically Treated Hair
- Hair that has been bleached, dyed, or permed tends to be more porous, making it easier for copper to latch on.
- Frequent Swimmers
- Spending extended time in chlorinated pools increases exposure to oxidized metals.
- Dry or Damaged Hair
- Hair with split ends or dryness is more susceptible to absorbing pool chemicals.
How to Prevent Green Hair from Pool Water
Prevention is key to keeping your hair its natural color. Here are some practical tips to protect your locks:
1. Pre-Wet Your Hair
- Before diving in, saturate your hair with fresh water. Wet hair is less porous, which means it will absorb fewer pool chemicals.
2. Apply a Leave-In Conditioner or Oil
- Use a leave-in conditioner or a small amount of coconut oil to coat your hair. This creates a barrier that helps prevent copper from bonding to your hair strands.
3. Wear a Swim Cap
- While not the most fashionable option, a swim cap provides the best protection by completely covering your hair.
4. Rinse Immediately After Swimming
- Rinse your hair with fresh water as soon as you exit the pool to wash away any lingering chemicals.
5. Use a Chelating Shampoo
- Chelating shampoos are specially formulated to remove metal buildup in hair. Look for products containing EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid).
6. Treat the Pool Water
- Regularly testing and balancing your pool’s pH and chemical levels can minimize copper concentrations.
What to Do If Your Hair Turns Green
If you’ve already noticed a green tint in your hair, don’t panic! There are several effective remedies to restore your hair’s natural color.
1. Use a Clarifying Shampoo
- Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove buildup from hair products, minerals, and pool chemicals. For best results, lather thoroughly and let the shampoo sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
2. DIY Remedies
- There are several home remedies you can try:
- Baking Soda Paste
Mix 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply it to your hair, focusing on the green areas, and rinse thoroughly. - Lemon Juice or Tomato Paste
The acidity in these ingredients can help neutralize green tones. Massage lemon juice or tomato paste into your hair, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, and then rinse. - Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Dilute 1 part apple cider vinegar with 3 parts water and pour it over your hair. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Baking Soda Paste
3. Professional Hair Treatments
- If at-home solutions don’t work, visit a professional stylist. Salons have specialized treatments, such as Malibu C treatments, designed to remove mineral buildup and restore your hair’s natural hue.
Products to Combat Green Hair
Several products are specifically formulated to help prevent and treat green hair caused by pool water. Here are some popular options:
- Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Shampoo and Conditioner
- A gentle, effective product line for removing pool-related buildup.
- Ion Hard Water Shampoo
- Excellent for removing hard water and mineral deposits from hair.
- UltraSwim Chlorine Removal Shampoo
- Designed for swimmers, this shampoo removes chlorine and metals from hair.
- Redken Hair Cleansing Cream
- A chelating shampoo that’s great for deep-cleaning your hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can dark hair turn green from pool water?
- A: Yes, although the green tint is less noticeable on darker hair. The same chemical reaction occurs, but the color may appear more muted or ashy.
Q: How long does it take to remove green hair?
- A: It depends on the severity of the discoloration and the method used. Mild cases can be resolved with a single clarifying shampoo session, while more severe cases may require multiple treatments or professional help.
Q: Are there long-term effects of copper on hair?
- A: Prolonged exposure to oxidized metals can dry out your hair and make it more prone to breakage. Regular use of protective and cleansing products can help mitigate these effects.
Real-Life Stories: Swimmers’ Experiences
Many swimmers have shared their experiences with green hair, offering helpful tips and insights:
- Case Study 1: Emily, a Competitive Swimmer
Emily, a high school swimmer, noticed her hair turning green every summer. After consulting with her stylist, she started using a leave-in conditioner and wearing a swim cap during practices. These simple changes prevented further discoloration. -
Case Study 2: Sarah, a Lifeguard
Sarah’s blonde hair turned green after a summer of working at a pool. A weekly chelating shampoo and regular use of a deep conditioner restored her hair’s health and color.
