Pool water and green blonde hair
Why the AAD says blond hair can turn green, and its swim tips.
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Why blond hair can turn green
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."
What chlorine does
The AAD says chlorine dissolves hair lipids, the fats that coat the hair shaft, and a dermatologist quoted by the AAD says that makes hair more susceptible to damage and split ends.
Before you swim
The AAD says to wear a swim cap. If that is too uncomfortable, a dermatologist quoted by the AAD suggests applying oil or a leave-in conditioner before entering the pool, which "creates a physical barrier between your hair and the harmful chlorine."
After you swim
The AAD says to rinse your hair immediately after swimming, then wash it with a specially formulated swimmers' shampoo and follow with a deep conditioner.
Color before a trip
A dermatologist quoted by the AAD says dyeing hair blond makes it more susceptible to damage from chlorine, and suggests not coloring right before a pool-filled vacation.
If hair is already green
We have no source with steps to take green out of blonde hair, and we give none. The AAD says that if you have questions about caring for your hair, see a board-certified dermatologist.
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: brassy hair
Sun, pool water, and color.
