If you’ve ever bleached your hair, you know the thrill of achieving that perfect platinum blonde color. However, sometimes this thrill can quickly turn into a nightmare when you’re left with unwanted green tones. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Getting green out of bleached hair is a common problem, but fortunately, it’s not impossible to fix. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind green hair, and more importantly, the steps you can take to get rid of it.
Why Does Bleached Hair Turn Green?
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential to understand why bleached hair turns green in the first place. There are a few reasons for this phenomenon:
Over-Processing
When you bleach your hair, the bleach breaks down the hair shaft and removes the natural pigment. If you over-process your hair, the bleach can penetrate too deep, causing the hair to become porous and prone to absorbing excess pigment. This can lead to a buildup of green tones, especially if you’re using a toner that’s not suitable for your hair type.
Mineral Buildup
Hard water, swimming pools, and even some hair products can contain minerals like copper, iron, and chlorine. These minerals can deposit onto your hair, causing greenish tones to appear. This is especially true if you have blonde hair, as it’s more porous and prone to absorbing minerals.
Insufficient Toning
When you bleach your hair, it’s essential to tone it to achieve the desired color. If you don’t tone your hair correctly, it can result in unwanted green tones. This is because the bleach has removed the natural pigment, and if you don’t add the correct tone, your hair can take on a greenish hue.
How to Get Rid of Green Tones in Bleached Hair
Now that we’ve covered the reasons behind green hair, let’s get to the good stuff – how to fix it! Here are some steps you can take to get rid of green tones in bleached hair:
Step 1: Identify the Cause
Before you start treating your hair, it’s essential to identify the cause of the green tones. Is it over-processing, mineral buildup, or insufficient toning? Once you know the cause, you can take the necessary steps to correct it.
Step 2: Neutralize the Green
To neutralize the green tones, you can try using a color corrector or a toner that’s specifically designed to combat green hair. These products usually contain purple or pink pigments that cancel out the green tones.
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Color Corrector | A color corrector is a product that’s specifically designed to correct color imbalances in your hair. It can be applied to specific areas or all over your hair to neutralize green tones. |
| Toner | A toner is a type of hair dye that’s used to add or remove tones from your hair. If you’re trying to get rid of green tones, you can use a toner with purple or pink pigments to cancel out the green. |
Step 3: Use a Purple Shampoo
Purple shampoo is a game-changer when it comes to getting rid of green tones in bleached hair. The purple pigments in the shampoo help to cancel out the green tones, leaving your hair looking more blonde and vibrant.
Tip: When using a purple shampoo, make sure to use it once or twice a week, as overusing it can lead to purple buildup on your hair.
Step 4: Try a Hair Mask
A hair mask can help to nourish and moisturize your hair, which can help to reduce the appearance of green tones. Look for a hair mask that’s specifically designed for blonde hair, as it will likely contain ingredients that help to combat green tones.
Step 5: Consider Re-Bleaching
If all else fails, you may need to re-bleach your hair to get rid of the green tones. However, this should be a last resort, as re-bleaching can cause further damage to your hair.
Preventing Green Hair in the Future
Preventing green hair in the future is all about taking the right precautions when bleaching your hair. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Use a Good Quality Bleach
Using a good quality bleach is essential when it comes to bleaching your hair. Look for a bleach that’s specifically designed for your hair type, and make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Use a Toner
A toner is essential when it comes to achieving the perfect blonde color. Make sure to use a toner that’s suitable for your hair type, and apply it correctly to avoid any color imbalances.
Avoid Over-Processing
Over-processing is a common mistake when it comes to bleaching hair. To avoid over-processing, make sure to follow the instructions carefully, and don’t leave the bleach on for too long.
Use a Purple Shampoo Regularly
Using a purple shampoo regularly can help to prevent green tones from appearing in the future. Try to use a purple shampoo once or twice a week to keep your hair looking vibrant and blonde.
Conclusion
Getting rid of green tones in bleached hair can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. By identifying the cause of the green tones, using a color corrector or toner, and taking the right precautions, you can achieve the perfect blonde color. Remember to use a good quality bleach, tone your hair correctly, and avoid over-processing to prevent green hair in the future. With a little patience and the right products, you can say goodbye to green hair and hello to a vibrant, blonde locks!
What causes green tones in bleached hair?
The primary cause of green tones in bleached hair is the result of an overabundance of ash tones in the bleach or dye. When the bleach or dye contains too much blue or violet pigment, it can neutralize warm tones in the hair, resulting in an unwanted greenish hue. Additionally, using bleach or dye that is not suitable for your hair type or color can also lead to green tones.
Another common cause of green tones in bleached hair is the presence of mineral buildup in the hair shaft. This can occur when the hair is exposed to hard water, which contains high levels of minerals such as copper and iron. These minerals can deposit onto the hair shaft, causing it to take on a greenish tint. Using a clarifying shampoo can help remove mineral buildup and reduce green tones in the hair.
How do I know if I have green tones in my bleached hair?
If you’ve recently bleached your hair, it’s essential to inspect your hair closely for any signs of green tones. Look for a yellowish or greenish tint, especially in the ends of your hair. You may also notice that your hair appears more dull or brassy than usual. In severe cases, the green tone may be more pronounced, giving your hair a bluish or turquoise hue.
If you’re still unsure, try taking a photo of your hair in natural light. This can help you see the true color of your hair more accurately. You can also ask a friend or family member for their honest opinion, as sometimes others may notice the green tones more easily than you do.
Can I use purple shampoo to get rid of green tones?
While purple shampoo is often used to neutralize brassy tones in blonde hair, it’s not the most effective solution for eliminating green tones. Purple shampoo works by canceling out warm tones, but it may not be enough to counteract the strong, cool tones that cause greenish hues. In some cases, using purple shampoo on greenish hair can even make the problem worse, as it can enhance the blue or violet undertones and make the hair appear more green.
For a more effective solution, consider using a color-correcting product specifically formulated to target green tones. These products usually contain strong red or orange pigments that can help counteract the cool tones causing the greenish hue.
How do I use a color-correcting product to get rid of green tones?
To use a color-correcting product, start by shampooing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Towel-dry your hair and apply the color-correcting product from roots to ends. Follow the product’s instructions for processing time, but generally, you’ll want to leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes. After processing, rinse the product out thoroughly and shampoo your hair again with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
When choosing a color-correcting product, make sure to read the instructions carefully and choose a product that’s specifically formulated to target green tones. It’s also essential to do a strand test before applying the product to your entire head, as some color-correcting products can be quite strong and may cause damage or uneven color.
Will using a toner help get rid of green tones?
Yes, using a toner can be an effective way to get rid of green tones in bleached hair. Toners are designed to adjust the tone of your hair and can help cancel out unwanted greenish hues. Look for a toner that’s specifically formulated to neutralize green tones, and apply it to your hair after bleaching or dyeing.
When using a toner, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and perform a strand test before applying it to your entire head. Toners can be quite strong, and using the wrong toner or leaving it on for too long can cause damage or uneven color.
How can I prevent green tones in bleached hair?
To prevent green tones in bleached hair, it’s essential to use a high-quality bleach or dye that’s suitable for your hair type and color. Always follow the instructions carefully, and perform a strand test before applying the product to your entire head. Additionally, using a pre-bleach treatment or a bond-building product can help protect your hair from damage and reduce the risk of green tones.
Another key to preventing green tones is to use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. These products are formulated to moisturize and nourish your hair, rather than strip it of its natural oils. By using gentle, sulfate-free products, you can help maintain the integrity of your hair and reduce the risk of green tones and other unwanted color issues.
Is it possible to get rid of green tones in bleached hair permanently?
While it’s possible to remove green tones from bleached hair, it may not be possible to get rid of them permanently. The hair shaft is porous, and it can absorb minerals and other substances that can cause green tones over time. However, by using the right products and taking good care of your hair, you can reduce the likelihood of green tones returning.
To maintain your hair’s color and prevent green tones from returning, use a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner, and consider using a color-depositing treatment once a week. You can also use a color-correcting product as needed to touch up any areas where the green tone may be starting to return. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your hair looking healthy, vibrant, and free of unwanted green tones.