Have you also been like a mermaid, indulging in swimming pools this summer? Has your fine blonde hair turned green? Do not worry!

chlorine hair_hanshenrickhair

When you (or the sun) lightens your hair, it often dries up. Chlorine and other disinfectants can open the outer layer of the hair strand further still. However, contrary to popular belief, it is not the chlorine but copper that makes your hair turn green. A copper dissolution is often used in swimming pool water, which prevents algae from growing in the pool’s water. Oxidized copper is green in color.

To avoid getting green hair; moisten your hair with water and put in your favourite treatment. Protect your hair with a tight bathing cap and you are ready to jump in. If the damage is already done, you can take a cheap conditioner, mix a little water and add half a can of organic soda (baking soda). Stir these ingredients into a cream and comb the hair with a fine-toothed comb. Divide the hair into small sections and comb, adding the cream, with smal motions from the ends to the base. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on how your hair reacts.

If it doesn’t entirely remove the green copper ions sitting in the dry hair cuticles, try making a stronger solution of water/soda and apply it on top of your first layer. If this still doesen’t work, rinse the conditioner out and apply the water/soda solution directly on the hair. That said, it will dry the hair agressively, so be sure to have a deep moisturizing hair mask ready. Repeat the same combing method with the hair mask in. Finally rinse the treatment with water, squeeze the excess water out of the hair. 

Good luck

Hans Henrick

Danish version