Banishing the Green: How to Get Rid of Unwanted Green Tones in Blonde Hair
Going blonde can be a transformative experience, but sometimes the journey can take unexpected turns. One of the most dreaded outcomes is a green tinge in your hair, which can happen when blonde hair is exposed to chlorine or other chemicals. But don't despair! Getting rid of green hair is possible, and with the right techniques, you can restore your blonde to its former glory.
Understanding the Problem
Green hair is usually caused by a chemical reaction between the minerals in hard water (like chlorine) and the color molecules in your hair. The green color is essentially a result of a "color deposit" on your hair shaft, which is why it's important to address this issue with the proper techniques.
The Solution: Removing the Green Tint
Here's a step-by-step guide to banish the green, adapted from the expert advice found on WikiHow:
1. Assess the Severity:
- How green is your hair? A faint green might be tackled with a simple clarifying shampoo, while a more intense green might require a color-correcting treatment.
2. Clarifying Shampoo:
- Start with a clarifying shampoo: This shampoo will strip away product buildup and impurities that might be contributing to the green tint.
- How to: Apply a generous amount of clarifying shampoo to wet hair, lather, and rinse thoroughly. Repeat if necessary.
- Important: Use a clarifying shampoo only occasionally, as it can be drying to the hair.
3. Color-Correcting Treatment:
- Use a color-correcting treatment: A color-correcting treatment can help neutralize the green tones. Red pigments will counteract the green, which is why a reddish or pink-toned color-correcting product is ideal.
- How to: Apply a color-correcting treatment to damp hair and leave it on for the time specified by the manufacturer. Rinse thoroughly.
- Tips: If you don't have a color-correcting treatment, you can try using a red hair dye diluted with conditioner or a small amount of tomato juice.
4. DIY Remedies:
- Try a DIY mask: Mixing baking soda, lemon juice, and shampoo can help remove green tones.
- How to: Combine 2 tablespoons of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a small amount of shampoo. Apply the mixture to wet hair and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
- Caution: Baking soda can be harsh, so use it sparingly. Avoid using this method if you have sensitive skin.
5. Maintaining Your Blonde:
- Use a purple shampoo: Purple shampoos can help prevent green tones from returning by depositing violet pigments that counteract yellow and brassy tones.
- Use a color-safe conditioner: Regularly using a moisturizing color-safe conditioner will help maintain the health of your hair and keep it vibrant.
Additional Tips:
- Consult a professional: If you're struggling to get rid of the green tint, it's best to consult a professional stylist or colorist. They can assess your hair and recommend the best course of action.
- Preventative measures: Avoid swimming in chlorinated pools without a swim cap or using hair products with copper or metal that can contribute to green tones.
Green hair is a common problem, but it's not an insurmountable one! With patience and the right approach, you can restore your blonde hair to its radiant beauty.