“Pool hair” is a term used to denote the greenish hue that is left on light colored locks when using the pool. So, can it be fixed or should you have the embarrassing “green top” for a while?

Originally I did not know the concept of pool hair. I always rinse out and thoroughly wash my hair after spending any amount of time in the pool. That the lingering chlorine and smelling of it give the much needed incentive for a thorough shower. 

However, when I was visiting one of friends who was out in the pool a lot as part of her work complained about getting a “green top” without actually trying to go green. When I looked at what she was pointing out, I noticed a green coloring of her otherwise golden locks.  

Is Your Hair Green?

 It wasn’t Green in the morning? I had this reaction when I met one of my friends who was volunteering as a lifeguard at a kid’s pool. Upon research I realized it is a side effect of spending a lot of time in the pool. So, does it only affect those with light locks? Absolutely not! The green coloring happens for every hair shade out there but only visible when you have light colored locks like Blonde, Platinum Blond, Silver Blond, or when your hair is gray or white. It is just not visible in darker shades as it can’t outweigh the darker shades! 

Copper & Oxidation 

So, how does perfectly good looking locks turn a shade of green? Apparently, pool water has a large amount of copper. It could be from any source, combined with oxidation due to the chlorine. But the common opinion is that the copper could be from the pipes that line the pool, to the water source itself, but the resulting unflattering green hair is not something anyone cherishes. It’s not always green though, some say it turns orange but the reasons remain the same . But the good thing is that it can be fixed. 

We don’t voluntarily jump into the pool without appropriate pool gear but it does happen. It could be when you’re volunteering to mind kids at a pool, or when your little one pushes you or pulls you into the pool for some fun, or family time, etc etc. However, the good thing is that the green hue can be worked out and your hair can look all over again, in a jiffy. Ready for the secret? 

Lemony Fix

All you need is juice from a few lemons (about ½ Cup), good old baking soda (2 Tbsp.) and any mild shampoo that you use, or have handy. You can also use baby shampoo or liquid castile soap if you don’t have shampoo. Just mix up everything together and apply to your hair. Make sure you apply thoroughly and cover every nook and corner of your scalp and cover your head with a shower cap. Wait for about 25 minutes before washing off. 

So, there you have it ladies, the quick fix to pool hair days – mind you, we’re not talking about the damaging effects of prolonged and consistent exposure to pool and the effects it has on your hair. We’re only talking about the coloring part – we will look at how to fix the damage or prevent it in another post, another day. 

So, let us know how you like our posts. Share your experiences with us and let us know if you are liking our recipes and recommendations. As always, feel free to write to us for any questions or requests. No time for DIY Recipes? Try the premium range of products from Vitamins – a whole range of natural products using Keratin and Argan Oil for hair and scalp care, along with handpicked ingredients that are tired and tested over time.