Brassy hair, explained
What the AAD says sun and pool water do to blonde hair color.
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What "brassy" means
"Brassy" is a word people use for blonde or bleached hair that looks yellow, orange, or warm. It describes how hair color looks. It is not a medical term.
Sun
A dermatologist quoted by the AAD says UV damage breaks down the proteins in hair and also changes its color, and that lighter, blond, or gray-colored hair is more susceptible than darker hair. The AAD coloring tips say the sun can make hair weak, dry, rough, faded, and brittle, and that "this is especially true if you dye, bleach or perm your hair."
Pool water
A dermatologist quoted by the AAD says chlorine works with the copper in the water and becomes absorbed by your hair, "resulting in a green hue." Our pool water guide covers the AAD swim tips.
Color and timing
A dermatologist quoted by the AAD says dyeing hair blond makes it more susceptible to UV damage and damage from chlorine, and suggests not coloring right before a sun- and pool-filled vacation.
Covering up
The AAD suggests a wide-brimmed hat in the sun, and avoiding peak hours of sun exposure, typically from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Toning shampoo
Makers describe purple and blue shampoos for hair that looks brassy. We make no claim that any product removes yellow or orange tones. Follow the label directions.
FAQ
General information, not medical advice. Follow the label. We suggest testing a new hair product on a small patch of skin first. Keep it out of your eyes, and stop use if irritation occurs. For hair dye, the FDA says to do a patch test every time and never to dye your eyebrows or eyelashes. See a doctor or dermatologist about scalp problems or hair loss.
Next: purple vs blue shampoo
Two colors, as makers describe.
