Help! Getting Rid of Green Tones in Blonde Hair: A Comprehensive Guide

Have you ever experienced the horror of looking in the mirror and realizing your beautiful blonde hair has taken on a greenish tinge? It’s a common problem, especially for blondes who swim frequently in chlorinated pools or have hard water. That unwelcome green hue can be incredibly frustrating, but don’t despair! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the causes of green hair and provide you with effective solutions and preventative measures to restore your blonde locks to their former glory.

## Why Does Blonde Hair Turn Green?

Understanding the root cause of the green tint is crucial for selecting the right treatment. The most common culprits are:

* **Chlorine:** This is the most frequent offender. Chlorine, used to disinfect swimming pools, binds to the proteins in your hair. Copper, often present in pool water as an algaecide or leached from pool pipes, oxidizes when it comes into contact with chlorine. This oxidized copper then adheres to the hair shaft, resulting in a greenish discoloration, especially noticeable in blonde hair because it lacks strong pigments to mask the green. Chemically treated hair is particularly porous and absorbs chlorine and copper more readily.

* **Copper in Water Pipes:** Even if you don’t swim in chlorinated pools, copper in your home’s water pipes can cause green hair. Older plumbing systems often contain copper pipes, and as water flows through them, small amounts of copper can leach into the water. This copper can then deposit on your hair during washing and over time, cause a greenish tint. The issue is often exacerbated in areas with acidic water, which is more corrosive to copper pipes.

* **Mineral Buildup:** Hard water, rich in minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium, can also contribute to green hair. While iron usually causes reddish or brownish discoloration, other minerals can interact with hair products and environmental factors to create a greenish hue.

* **Certain Hair Products:** Although less common, some hair products, especially those containing metallic salts, can react with other substances in water or with chlorine, leading to green discoloration. This is rare, but it’s worth considering if you’ve recently switched products.

## Identifying the Culprit

Before you start trying to remove the green, try to determine the cause. This will help you choose the most effective treatment. Consider the following:

* **Do you swim frequently in chlorinated pools?** If so, chlorine and copper are the likely culprits.

* **Do you have hard water?** A simple water test kit can determine the mineral content of your water. Alternatively, you might notice mineral buildup on faucets and showerheads.

* **Have you recently changed your hair products?** Check the ingredients list for metallic salts.

* **Is your plumbing old?** If you live in an older home with copper pipes, copper leaching is a strong possibility.

## How to Get the Green Out: Proven Methods

Now that you understand the causes, let’s explore various methods to remove the green tint from your blonde hair. The severity of the discoloration and the cause will influence which methods work best.

### 1. Chelating Shampoos

Chelating shampoos are specifically formulated to remove mineral buildup and chlorine from hair. They contain ingredients that bind to metals, allowing them to be rinsed away. These shampoos are a great first line of defense against green hair.

**How to Use:**

1. **Wet your hair thoroughly:** Ensure your hair is completely saturated with water.

2. **Apply a generous amount of chelating shampoo:** Focus on the areas with the most green discoloration.

3. **Massage into your hair and scalp:** Work the shampoo into a lather, massaging it thoroughly from roots to ends.

4. **Let it sit for 3-5 minutes:** This allows the chelating agents to bind to the minerals and chlorine.

5. **Rinse thoroughly:** Rinse your hair completely until all the shampoo is removed. Use lukewarm water, as hot water can further dry out your hair.

6. **Follow with a moisturizing conditioner:** Chelating shampoos can be drying, so it’s essential to replenish moisture with a good conditioner.

7. **Repeat as needed:** Depending on the severity of the green, you may need to repeat the process a few times. Don’t overuse chelating shampoos, as they can strip your hair of essential oils.

**Recommendations:**

* **Malibu C Hard Water Wellness Shampoo:** A popular choice known for its effectiveness in removing mineral buildup.

* **Ion Color Defense After-Color Treatment:** Contains chelating agents and helps to seal the hair cuticle after coloring.

* **Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three:** A clarifying shampoo that can help remove chlorine and mineral deposits.

### 2. Tomato Juice Treatment

The acidity of tomato juice can help neutralize the copper that causes green hair. This is a natural and gentle remedy that’s worth trying, especially for mild cases of green discoloration.

**How to Use:**

1. **Choose ripe tomatoes:** Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best results. Canned tomato juice can also be used, but fresh is preferred.

2. **Prepare the tomato juice:** You can either use tomato juice directly from the container or blend fresh tomatoes in a blender until smooth. Strain the mixture to remove seeds and pulp, if desired.

3. **Apply to your hair:** Saturate your hair with the tomato juice, focusing on the areas with the most green discoloration.

4. **Massage into your hair:** Gently massage the tomato juice into your hair and scalp.

5. **Let it sit for 20-30 minutes:** This allows the acidity of the tomato juice to neutralize the copper.

6. **Rinse thoroughly:** Rinse your hair completely with lukewarm water.

7. **Shampoo and condition:** Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and follow with a moisturizing conditioner.

8. **Repeat as needed:** You can repeat this treatment a few times a week until the green tint is gone.

**Why it Works:**

The citric and malic acids in tomato juice help to lift the copper deposits from the hair shaft. It’s a relatively gentle option compared to harsher chemical treatments.

### 3. Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can help remove mineral buildup and other impurities from hair. Its alkaline properties can help lift the green discoloration. However, baking soda can be drying, so use it sparingly and follow with a deep conditioner.

**How to Use:**

1. **Make a paste:** Mix baking soda with water to form a thick paste. Use about ¼ cup of baking soda and add water gradually until you reach a paste-like consistency.

2. **Apply to your hair:** Apply the paste to your hair, focusing on the areas with the green tint. Avoid getting the paste on your scalp, as it can be irritating.

3. **Massage gently:** Gently massage the paste into your hair for a few minutes.

4. **Let it sit for 10-15 minutes:** Don’t leave the paste on for too long, as it can dry out your hair.

5. **Rinse thoroughly:** Rinse your hair completely with lukewarm water.

6. **Shampoo and condition:** Wash your hair with a moisturizing shampoo and follow with a deep conditioner to replenish moisture.

7. **Use sparingly:** Baking soda can be harsh, so use this treatment only when necessary and no more than once a week.

**Important Considerations:**

* Baking soda can be drying, so it’s crucial to use a deep conditioner afterward.

* Avoid using baking soda on color-treated hair, as it can strip the color.

* Do a patch test before applying the paste to your entire head to check for any irritation.

### 4. Lemon Juice Rinse

Similar to tomato juice, lemon juice’s acidity can help neutralize the copper that causes green hair. It’s a natural and effective remedy, but be cautious as lemon juice can also lighten hair, so it’s best used on lighter blonde shades. It is also crucial to dilute it and avoid excessive sun exposure while using lemon juice in your hair.

**How to Use:**

1. **Dilute lemon juice:** Mix equal parts of lemon juice and water. Never apply undiluted lemon juice to your hair, as it can be too harsh.

2. **Apply to your hair:** Pour the lemon juice mixture over your hair, focusing on the areas with the green tint.

3. **Massage into your hair:** Gently massage the lemon juice into your hair.

4. **Let it sit for 5-10 minutes:** Don’t leave it on for too long, as it can lighten your hair.

5. **Rinse thoroughly:** Rinse your hair completely with lukewarm water.

6. **Shampoo and condition:** Wash your hair with a moisturizing shampoo and follow with a deep conditioner.

7. **Limit sun exposure:** Avoid prolonged sun exposure after using lemon juice, as it can enhance the lightening effect.

**Precautions:**

* Lemon juice can lighten hair, so use it cautiously, especially if you have dark blonde or color-treated hair.

* Always dilute lemon juice with water to prevent irritation.

* Avoid prolonged sun exposure after using lemon juice.

### 5. Aspirin Mask

Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which can help dissolve mineral buildup and restore your hair’s natural pH balance. This method is particularly effective for removing chlorine and copper deposits.

**How to Use:**

1. **Crush aspirin tablets:** Crush 6-8 uncoated aspirin tablets into a fine powder.

2. **Mix with warm water:** Add enough warm water to the aspirin powder to form a smooth paste.

3. **Apply to your hair:** Apply the aspirin paste to your hair, focusing on the areas with the green tint.

4. **Massage gently:** Gently massage the paste into your hair and scalp.

5. **Let it sit for 15-20 minutes:** This allows the salicylic acid to dissolve the mineral buildup.

6. **Rinse thoroughly:** Rinse your hair completely with lukewarm water.

7. **Shampoo and condition:** Wash your hair with a moisturizing shampoo and follow with a deep conditioner.

**Important Considerations:**

* Make sure to use uncoated aspirin tablets.

* Aspirin can be drying, so follow with a deep conditioner.

* Avoid using this method too frequently, as it can be harsh on your hair.

### 6. Professional Color Correction

If the green discoloration is severe or you’ve tried the home remedies without success, it’s best to consult a professional hairstylist. A skilled colorist can assess the damage and use specialized products and techniques to correct the color without further damaging your hair. Color correction often involves using a toner or color filler to neutralize the green tones and restore your desired blonde shade. This is often the best option if you are unsure of the products you should use or have already damaged your hair using other methods.

**What to Expect:**

* **Consultation:** The stylist will assess your hair’s condition and discuss your desired outcome.

* **Color Correction:** The stylist will use professional-grade products to neutralize the green tones.

* **Toning:** A toner will be applied to achieve your desired blonde shade.

* **Deep Conditioning:** A deep conditioning treatment will help to restore moisture and repair any damage.

**Benefits of Professional Correction:**

* Avoid further damage to your hair.

* Achieve a more even and natural-looking result.

* Receive personalized advice and recommendations for maintaining your hair color.

## Preventing Green Hair: Proactive Measures

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some effective ways to prevent your blonde hair from turning green in the first place:

### 1. Wet Your Hair Before Swimming

Before entering the pool, thoroughly wet your hair with clean, non-chlorinated water. This saturates your hair, reducing its ability to absorb chlorinated water and copper. Think of your hair like a sponge; if it’s already full of clean water, it can’t absorb as much of the pool water.

### 2. Apply a Protective Hair Product

Apply a leave-in conditioner, hair oil (like coconut or argan oil), or a specially formulated swim cap hair protector before swimming. These products create a barrier that helps to shield your hair from chlorine and copper. Look for products that contain UV protectants to further protect your hair from sun damage.

**Recommendations:**

* **Coconut Oil:** A natural and effective option that creates a protective barrier.

* **Argan Oil:** Adds shine and moisture while protecting against chlorine.

* **Swimmers Leave-In Conditioner:** Specifically designed to protect hair from chlorine and sun damage.

### 3. Wear a Swim Cap

Wearing a swim cap is one of the most effective ways to prevent green hair. A swim cap provides a physical barrier that minimizes contact between your hair and chlorinated water. Make sure the cap fits snugly to prevent water from seeping in.

**Tips for Choosing a Swim Cap:**

* **Silicone caps:** Durable and long-lasting.

* **Latex caps:** Affordable and flexible.

* **Lycra caps:** Comfortable but less waterproof.

### 4. Rinse Your Hair Immediately After Swimming

Immediately after swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with clean, non-chlorinated water. This helps to remove any chlorine and copper that may have accumulated on your hair. Use a gentle shampoo to remove any remaining residue.

### 5. Use a Clarifying Shampoo Regularly

Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove any mineral buildup, chlorine, and product residue from your hair. This helps to prevent the accumulation of substances that can contribute to green hair. However, don’t overuse clarifying shampoos, as they can be drying.

### 6. Install a Shower Filter

If you have hard water or copper pipes, consider installing a shower filter. Shower filters remove chlorine, copper, and other minerals from your water, protecting your hair from discoloration. Look for filters that are specifically designed to remove chlorine and heavy metals.

### 7. Seal Your Hair Cuticle

Using products that help to seal the hair cuticle can prevent chlorine and minerals from penetrating the hair shaft. Look for leave-in conditioners, hair masks, and serums that are designed to smooth and seal the cuticle.

**Ingredients to Look For:**

* **Silicones:** Create a barrier that protects against moisture loss and environmental damage.

* **Oils:** Smooth the cuticle and add shine.

* **Protein:** Strengthens the hair shaft and repairs damage.

### 8. Maintain Healthy Hair

Healthy hair is less porous and less likely to absorb chlorine and minerals. Keep your hair healthy by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and using gentle hair care products. Avoid harsh chemicals, excessive heat styling, and tight hairstyles that can damage your hair.

## Choosing the Right Products

When choosing hair care products, look for those that are specifically designed for blonde hair and that are free of harsh chemicals. Here are some key ingredients to look for and avoid:

**Ingredients to Look For:**

* **Chelating Agents:** Help to remove mineral buildup and chlorine.

* **Moisturizing Ingredients:** Replenish moisture and prevent dryness.

* **UV Protectants:** Protect hair from sun damage.

**Ingredients to Avoid:**

* **Sulfates:** Can strip hair of its natural oils.

* **Alcohol:** Can dry out hair.

* **Metallic Salts:** Can react with chlorine and other substances to cause discoloration.

## When to See a Professional

While many cases of green hair can be treated at home, there are times when it’s best to seek professional help. Consult a hairstylist if:

* The green discoloration is severe and doesn’t respond to home remedies.

* Your hair is damaged or brittle.

* You’re unsure of the cause of the green hair.

* You want to avoid further damage to your hair.

## Conclusion

Dealing with green hair can be frustrating, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can restore your blonde locks to their former glory. By understanding the causes of green hair, choosing the right treatments, and taking preventative measures, you can keep your blonde hair looking beautiful and healthy. Remember to be patient, consistent, and gentle with your hair, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. With a little care and attention, you can say goodbye to green hair and hello to radiant blonde!