That stunning blonde you worked so hard for has taken on a murky, greenish tint. It’s a frustrating and surprisingly common problem, especially for those with lighter, platinum, or highlighted hair. Before you panic, know that this is almost always a fixable situation. The green isn’t a stain in the traditional sense; it’s a reaction, and knowing the cause is the first step to getting your bright blonde back.
The most common culprit for green hair is, believe it or not, your water. Copper is the main offender. Tiny amounts of copper from plumbing pipes can build up on your hair over time. When that copper oxidizes, it turns your lovely locks a shade of green. Swimming pools are another frequent source, as the copper in algaecides can bind to the protein in your hair.
Why Your Blonde Hair Turns Green
Think of your hair as a sponge. Light, porous blonde hair, especially if it’s been lightened or damaged, has a much easier time absorbing minerals like copper from water and chemicals from pools. This buildup then shows up as a green cast. The more damaged your hair is, the more prone it will be to this kind of discoloration.
Simple At-Home Solutions to Try First
For a mild green tint, you can often find a solution right in your kitchen. A clarifying shampoo is your best friend here. Look for one designed to remove product and mineral buildup. Use it once a week to help lift the copper particles from your hair.
Another gentle method is the tomato juice or ketchup trick. The red tones in tomatoes can help neutralize the green on the color wheel. Apply it to damp hair, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then shampoo thoroughly. For a similar effect, you can create a paste with baking soda and your regular shampoo to act as a gentle scrub.
When to Consider a Professional Treatment
If the green is stubborn or very pronounced, home remedies might not be enough. This is when a visit to your stylist is a great idea. They have access to professional-grade clarifying treatments and products specifically designed to remove mineral deposits without causing further damage to your hair.
Keeping the Green Away for Good
Prevention is always easier than correction. Installing a showerhead filter can significantly reduce the amount of copper and other minerals your hair is exposed to every day. Before swimming in a pool, saturate your hair with tap water and a leave-in conditioner. This creates a barrier, so your hair absorbs less of the pool water. Using a clarifying shampoo once a week as part of your routine can also help prevent buildup before it starts.
Dealing with green hair can be worrying, but with the right approach, you can restore your blonde to its former glory. Start with the gentlest methods and work your way up if needed. With a little knowledge and the right products, you can keep your blonde looking bright, fresh, and beautifully green-free.