how to get chlorine green out of hair

3 min read 19-01-2025

Chlorine-green hair is a frustrating, but thankfully fixable, problem. Whether you spent a little too long in the pool or your hair's natural color is particularly susceptible, this guide will walk you through removing that unwanted green tinge and restoring your hair's natural beauty. We'll cover various methods, from quick fixes to more intensive treatments, so you can choose the best approach for your situation.

Understanding Chlorine's Impact on Hair

Before diving into solutions, it's helpful to understand why chlorine turns hair green. Chlorine reacts with the minerals in your hair (particularly those with metallic deposits), creating a greenish discoloration. This is more common in light-blonde, grey, or previously highlighted hair. Hair that's already damaged is more vulnerable.

Quick Fixes for Mild Green Tinting

For minor green discoloration, you might find success with these immediate solutions:

Washing with Clarifying Shampoo

A clarifying shampoo is a great first step. These shampoos are designed to remove product buildup, and they can often lift away mild chlorine staining. Look for shampoos specifically designed to remove chlorine. Follow the instructions on the bottle carefully. You might need to repeat this a few times.

Baking Soda Paste

Mix baking soda with a little water to create a paste. Apply this to the affected areas, gently massaging it into your hair. Leave it on for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Baking soda can help neutralize the chlorine and lift the green color. Use caution as it can be drying.

More Intensive Treatments for Stubborn Green

If quick fixes fail, consider these more intensive options:

Vitamin C Treatment

This popular method uses the power of Vitamin C to lighten the green tint. Crush several Vitamin C tablets (around 10-15, depending on hair length and thickness) and mix them with a clarifying shampoo. Apply this mixture to your hair, focusing on the green areas. Let it sit for an hour or longer (even overnight for stubborn stains), then rinse. The ascorbic acid in the Vitamin C helps break down the discoloration.

Commercial Chlorine Removal Products

Several hair care brands offer products specifically designed to remove chlorine from hair. These often contain ingredients similar to those in the Vitamin C treatment but are formulated for optimal effectiveness. Look for products that target chlorine-related discoloration. Read reviews before choosing.

Professional Help

If the green is intense or persistent despite home treatments, it's best to consult a hair professional. A stylist can assess the situation and recommend a color correction treatment that's tailored to your hair type and the severity of the green. They possess the expertise and specialized products to safely restore your hair's natural color.

Preventing Chlorine Green Hair in the Future

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to avoid chlorine-green hair in the future:

Wet your hair before swimming: This helps your hair absorb less chlorine.
Use a leave-in conditioner: A leave-in conditioner creates a barrier between your hair and the chlorine.
Wear a swim cap: This is the most effective method to prevent chlorine damage.
Rinse your hair thoroughly after swimming: Remove chlorine as quickly as possible to minimize damage.

Choosing the Right Approach

The best method for removing chlorine green from your hair depends on the severity of the discoloration and your hair type. Start with gentler methods like clarifying shampoo. If that doesn't work, progress to more intensive treatments like the Vitamin C method. Always remember to condition your hair afterward, as these treatments can be drying.

Remember, patience is key! It may take several attempts to completely remove the green tint. If you're unsure about any treatment, always consult a professional hairstylist.