If you're a frequent pool-goer and have light hair, you might notice a slight green tint to your locks. This discoloration is the result of high levels of metals in the water, namely, copper, as well as too much chlorine, according to The Atlantic Club and Poolmanual.com. Use home remedies to remove the green tint from your hair. Adjust your pool's PH and chlorine levels to prevent this condition--often called swimmer's hair--from returning.
Step 1
Assess the levels of alkalinity--the pH level--and how much chlorine is in the water that's turning your hair green. If you swim at a public pool, ask the manager what the daily readings show. If you own a pool, the chlorine should range from 2 to 3 parts per million, while the pH level should range from 7.2 and 7.8, recommends Poolmanual.com. Readings that are too high can affect your hair color. Shocking the water with chlorine as needed or removing copper from the water with a metal-removing agent can help restore your hair to its natural color during future swims.
Step 2
Remove green from your hair through a rinse made with aspirin and tap water. Dissolve eight aspirin tablets in a full glass of water. Work the mixture through your hair during your shower. Wait 15 minutes before rinsing to ensure maximum coverage.
Step 3
Create a paste of baking soda and tap water. Apply the paste to your head and work it through your hair in a shampooing motion. Rinse after 5 minutes and wash your hair with your normal shampoo and conditioner.
Step 4
Use citric acid to dissolve the metals that are turning your hair green. The Atlantic Club suggests using lemon juice or tomato juice. Saturate your head with either liquid. Rinse it out after a few minutes. Follow this remedy with your normal hair-washing routine.
Tips and Warnings
- Limit the green tint your hair takes on by rinsing your hair in tap water before you swim. Once your hair is saturated, it won't be able to absorb as much pool water as dry hair would, which can prevent such ingredients as copper and from damaging your tresses.
Things You'll Need
- Chlorine
- Metal-removing agent
- Aspirin
- Baking soda
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Lemon juice
Member Comments
MaryOstrowski July 16
Erica?
Chlorine actually doesn?t turn your hair green? that?s caused by copper, which is sometimes used in pools to prevent algae growth. Hope this is helpful.
Best,
Mary Ostrowski
American Chemistry Council