How to Fix Green Hair

Are you looking for a solution to fix your green hair? Don’t worry, it’s a common problem that can be easily fixed with the right products and techniques.

Green hair can be an unexpected and frustrating problem, often caused by exposure to chlorine or certain minerals in water, such as copper. This issue is most common among individuals with curly hair cut, as it tends to show discoloration more prominently. Fortunately, there are effective and simple methods to restore your hair’s natural color and shine. Whether through home remedies or professional treatments, you can tackle green hair and prevent it from recurring with the right approach.

In this guide on how to fix green hair, we will discuss the causes of green hair and provide tips on how to treat and prevent it from happening again.

What Are the Causes of Green Hair?

Green hair can be caused by a variety of factors, such as environmental elements, chemical treatments, and even genetics. Understanding the root cause is crucial in finding the best solution for your green hair woes.

• Environmental Factors: The most common cause of green hair is exposure to chlorine or other chemicals found in swimming pools or hot tubs. Chlorine has a strong bleaching effect that can strip away natural oils from your hair and leave it dry and brittle.
• Chemical Treatments: Chemical treatments such as bleaching, dyeing, or highlighting can also cause green hair. This is because some chemicals can react with minerals in your water and create a green hue on your hair.
• Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing green hair. This is usually due to high levels of copper in their body, which can give off a greenish tint when exposed to certain chemicals or environmental factors.

What Will You Need?

To get rid of green hair, you will need:

• A clarifying shampoo
• Apple cider vinegar
• Baking soda
• Coconut oil or other deep conditioning treatment
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Vitamin C tablets (optional)

Once you have these items, you can begin the process of removing the green hue from your hair.

10 Easy Steps on How to Fix Green Hair

1. Rinse Your Hair 

Start by thoroughly rinsing your hair with clean, warm water. This initial rinse will help to remove any surface chlorine, buildup, or other residues that might be contributing to the green hue. Warm water opens up the hair cuticles, making it easier for the following treatments to penetrate your hair more effectively. Be gentle while rinsing, ensuring that you do not tangle your hair, as this can make the process more difficult later on. Make sure your hair is fully saturated before moving on to the next step.

2. Use a Clarifying Shampoo 

Apply a generous amount of clarifying shampoo to your wet hair, focusing on areas where the green tint is most prominent. Clarifying shampoos are specially formulated to remove impurities, such as chlorine, mineral deposits, and product buildup, which can cause discoloration. Massage the shampoo into your hair and scalp for a few minutes, allowing it to work deeply. For stubborn green hues, leave the shampoo on for an additional 1-2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water. Repeat this step if necessary, but avoid overdoing it, as excessive use of clarifying shampoos can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Once your hair feels clean and refreshed, move to the next step in the process.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse 

An apple cider vinegar rinse is an excellent natural remedy for neutralizing green tones and restoring balance to your hair. To prepare the rinse, mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle or bowl. After shampooing, apply the mixture evenly through your damp hair, focusing on areas with discoloration. Leave it on for 3-5 minutes to let the acidity of the vinegar break down mineral buildup and green hues. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water to remove the mixture. Follow up with a hydrating conditioner to restore moisture and maintain softness. Repeat this rinse as needed, but limit use to once or twice a week to prevent over-drying.

4. Try a Baking Soda Paste 

Create a paste by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda with a small amount of water until it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. Apply the paste to the discolored areas of your damp hair, gently massaging it in to ensure even coverage. The mild abrasive properties of baking soda can help to lift mineral deposits and remove green tones from your hair. Leave the paste on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. After rinsing, follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to avoid dryness and keep your hair soft and nourished. This method should be used sparingly, as excessive use of baking soda can be drying to both hair and scalp.

5. Apply Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is another effective remedy for removing green tones from your hair, thanks to its natural acidity. To use this method, squeeze fresh lemon juice into a bowl and apply it evenly to the affected areas of your damp hair. Massage the juice gently into your hair, ensuring it covers all the green-tinted strands. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, as the acidic properties of lemon will help break down the mineral buildup causing the discoloration. Afterward, rinse thoroughly with warm water and be sure to use a hydrating conditioner to replenish moisture in your hair. Like baking soda, lemon juice should be used with caution to prevent over-drying.

6. Crush Vitamin C Tablets

Crushing vitamin C tablets is another effective method to counteract hair discoloration caused by mineral buildup. Start by taking 8-10 vitamin C tablets and crush them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon. Mix the powder with a small amount of clarifying shampoo to create a paste. Apply the mixture evenly to your damp hair, focusing on areas with discoloration. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and prevent dryness. This method works due to the gentle acidic properties of vitamin C, which can help to break down the minerals causing the tint without harsh chemicals.

7. Rinse and Condition 

Rinse your hair thoroughly under warm water, ensuring all traces of the mixture are removed. Pay close attention to the roots and ends, as residue can sometimes linger. Once rinsed, apply a generous amount of deep conditioner, focusing on replenishing hydration and repairing any dryness. Leave the conditioner on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse with cool water to seal the cuticle and add shine. This final step helps ensure your hair feels soft, smooth, and healthy after the treatment.

8. Repeat Steps

To maintain the best results, repeat this hair care routine every 1-2 weeks or as needed, depending on your hair’s condition and needs. Consistency is key to ensuring your hair stays nourished, hydrated, and resilient over time. Regular treatments help prevent damage, improve texture, and keep your hair looking its healthiest. Adjust the frequency based on how your hair responds to the regimen.

9. Avoid Chlorine in the Future 

Chlorine can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. To protect your hair, consider wearing a swim cap while swimming in chlorinated pools and rinsing your hair with clean water both before and after swimming. Additionally, you can apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil as a protective barrier against chlorine. Maintaining this habit will help preserve your hair’s health, shine, and strength over time.

10. Consult a Professional

If you notice persistent issues with your hair, such as excessive dryness, breakage, or hair loss, it may be time to consult a professional. A dermatologist or trichologist can help identify underlying problems and recommend effective treatments tailored to your specific needs. Hair care professionals can also provide insights into your hair type and suggest products or techniques to promote healthy growth. Seeking expert advice ensures you are addressing any concerns appropriately and taking the best possible care of your hair.

By following a consistent hair care routine and being attentive to any changes in your hair, you can maintain healthy and vibrant locks.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Overusing Harsh Chemicals 

  Avoid using excessive amounts of clarifying shampoos, baking soda, or vinegar as these can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle.

2. Ignoring the Green Tint Cause 

  Before treating, understand what caused the green tint—usually chlorine or mineral buildup. Treating it incorrectly may worsen the issue instead of solving it.

3. Using Hot Water 

  Washing your hair with hot water can intensify the discoloration by opening the hair cuticle and allowing the green molecules to settle further in your strands.

4. Applying Random Dyes 

  Recoloring your hair with random dyes to mask the green hue can lead to unpredictable results. Stick to targeted treatments or consult a professional colorist.

5. Skipping Professional Help 

  If at-home fixes don’t work or you’re concerned about worsening your hair’s condition, avoid attempting extreme remedies and seek professional help instead.

Conclusion

How to fix green hair requires patience, the right products, and a careful approach to avoid further damage.

By understanding the cause of the green tint, such as exposure to chlorine or incorrect hair coloring, you can select the most effective remedy. Natural solutions like using tomato juice or targeted products designed for color correction can help neutralize the hue. Avoid risky treatments, and if the issue persists, consider consulting a professional.

With the proper care and attention, your hair can return to its desired shade and regain its healthy appearance.