About Chlorine-Green Hair

While chlorine keeps the water of a pool clean and free of bacteria, it does a number on your hair. This doesn't mean that you have to give up swimming, though, which is a great form of exercise that is gentle on your joints. Here are some ideas on how to deal with the effects of chlorine on your hair.

Identification

Your hair is made up of two layers: the inner cortex layer, which is protected by the outer cuticle layer, which has natural oils that keep your hair lubricated. Chlorine leeches onto the cuticle and dries out this layer, making the cortex more susceptible to damage, resulting in split ends.

Effects

In addition to drying out your hair, chlorine also robs your hair of its natural shine and also stains it, resulting in a greenish cast most apparent if your hair is blond, light red or light brown. It can also make dark hair appear dull.

Prevention/Solution

Slather your hair in a conditioner before you go into the pool to prevent chlorine from leeching onto your hair.
Wear a swimmer's cap when you go in the pool to protect your hair. Make sure it is tight enough and covers your entire hair line.
Wash your hair soon after you finish swimming.

Considerations

If you can't wash your hair immediately after leaving the pool, at least drench it in clean tap water once you are done swimming.
Consider using a specially made shampoo and conditioner for swimmers if you swim more than twice a week.

Warning

Never brush wet hair. Use a wide-toothed comb to separate your strands, especially after you wash your hair after swimming.