They say blondes have more fun, but that’s not the case when a day at the pool leaves you with green locks. According to Bloom Beauty Lounge in NYC, chlorinated water often contains copper compounds that attach to the hair cuticle, oxidize, and create a green tint. This summer, protect your hair color with these stylist-approved tips.

How to Preserve Blonde Hair Color

1. Prep Your Tresses

Your hair is like a sponge; it soaks up whatever it comes in contact with. So, if your hair cuticles are filled with clean water, it’s harder for them to absorb the copper compounds, chlorine, and other substances. So before you jump in the pool, thoroughly wet your hair.

For added protection, you can also apply a leave-in conditioner and tuck your hair into a swimming cap. Bloom Beauty Lounge recommends this conditioner from their line of organic hair products, Lavender & Oak. Not only is it lightweight and hydrating, but it’s also petrochemical, sulfate, and paraben free.

2. Shampoo After Swimming

The longer chlorinated water stays in your hair, the more likely it is to oxidize and change your hair color. To protect your blonde locks, you’ll need to wash your hair as soon as you’re done swimming. Opt for a clarifying or deep-cleansing shampoo as these are best at removing chlorine build-up.  

3. Use Tomato Paste, Sauce, or Juice

If, despite these efforts, your hair starts turning green, you can reverse the effect by using a tomato paste,sauce, or juice. Soak your hair for anywhere from 5-20mins before shampooing and conditioning. The acidity and color will temove the buildup and tone the green out of the hair. If this does not work, you may need to visit a hair salon for a professional color correction.

Don’t let green hair get in the way of your summer fun. For more tips on how to preserve your hair color, blonde or otherwise, visit Bloom Beauty Lounge online. To schedule an appointment with one of their expert stylists, call the hair salon at (212) 255-9355 today.