Green hair? Here’s how to fix it
Not only blonde people can suffer from a green tint in their hair. Brunettes or people with red hair can also get this witch color in their locks. You might be sitting there with your hands in your (sorry: green) hair, but don't worry, I'm going to help you.
Causes of green hair
So, why does your hair suddenly turn green? There can be several causes. Did you recently dye your hair? From blonde to brown for example? Check, sometimes your hair doesn't react to the dye as you had in mind and turns out green. From swimming in the sea and in an indoor pool your hair can also turn green. For the blondes this may already be known, but all of us brownies can suffer from it. Also heat your hair color can change. That straightener you always use at 220 degrees, you better set it around 150 degrees. This way you reduce the chance of color change and that straightener works just fine, you know.
Are you from The Hague, Utrecht or Groningen? Then you probably suffer from green hair more often than people from Amsterdam or Rotterdam. The water that comes out of the tap in those three cities often has a higher mineral content (for example copper) that can discolor your hair.
Goodbye to that green tint
Okay, okay, now you know where your green hair comes from, but, panic! What now? Fortunately, there are ways to tackle the problem without having to run to the hairdresser and spend dozens of euros.
Ketchup or tomato paste: ‘Yuck’ I hear you thinking, but for some people it really works. The red dyes in ketchup counteract the green. Apply a generous amount of ketchup to your hair and let it sit for 20 minutes.
Special clarifying shampoo: There are shampoos that are specially designed to remove minerals from the hair. Look for a shampoo that can remove copper, iron or other minerals. Note: don't use the shampoo too often, it can dry out your hair.
Use a toner: There are various toners available if you want to remove a green tint. Often you can't find a good toner at Kruidvat and you really have to order it online. For now, put your hair in a ketchup bun and tomorrow the toner will be on your doormat. Here you can read more about hair toners against green hair.
Preventing green hair
Now you know how to remove that ugly green tint from your hair, but it's also handy to know how to prevent that green color in your hair altogether.
Avoid silver shampoo
Silver shampoo sounds chic and works great on orange hair, but for anyone who thinks it also helps against green hair: wrong. Those purple pigments can actually cause extra damage if your hair has already been in contact with chlorine or copper. So unless your highlights look like a banana, just leave that purple bottle alone.
Use a protective spray
Lying in the sun without SPF is mega bad for your skin — we all know that by now. Protecting your skin is important, but do the same for your hair. A heat protecting spray with something. And if you absolutely must wear those pumps, make sure they are a pair with an ankle strap, so your leg is broken up again. Also very nice: a nice sneaker. Nikes, Vans, Mipacha’s, actually anything works, and such a sporty shoe creates a nice contrast with the sexy skirt. basically sunscreen for your hair. Use it not only when you're styling, but also when you're going to bake in the sun for a day.
Use your heat tool between 150 and 170 degrees
We know: 220 degrees is tempting – your hair is then in no time style. But your color is far from happy with it. By setting your straightener or curling iron a bit lower, you not only preserve your hair color, but also your shine. It might take you a bit more time to style now, but you really don't have to fry your hair to make it look nice.
Be careful with swimming
I'm not saying you can't swim at all anymore, but chlorine and seawater are your arch-enemy when it comes to green hair. Whether you're lying in the sea in Ibiza or just doing laps in the pool at the campsite: always rinse your hair well. Preferably right after swimming.
If possible, try to keep your hair dry. Gather your hair and put it in a bun or tuck it under a waterproof swim cap. And yes, I know a swim cap is not a fashion statement — but green hair isn't either.
Hydrate your hair
Hydration is key. Hair that is well-hydrated absorbs less of those culprits substances. Buy a hair mask, leave-in conditioner, and a nice hair oil, and give yourself a mini hair treatment regularly. Not only good for your hair, but also for your mood.
Invest in a good water filter
Tap water may seem harmless, but it can be full of minerals. It's not necessary for everyone, but if you know your water quality is bad, consider a showerhead with a filter. You can buy here such a showerhead for less than 30 euros and not only your hair, but also your skin will thank you.
