Are you struggling with unwanted green tones in your hair? You’re not alone. Many people who have bleached or dyed their hair blonde or light brown often experience this issue. One popular solution that’s been circulating online is using purple shampoo to neutralize the green tones. But does it really work? In this article, we’ll delve into the science behind purple shampoo and explore its effectiveness in getting rid of green hair.
What Causes Green Hair?
Before we dive into the solution, it’s essential to understand what causes green hair in the first place. There are several reasons why your hair might be turning green:
Mineral Buildup
One common cause of green hair is mineral buildup. When you use hot water to wash your hair, it can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to an increase in porosity. This can cause minerals like copper, iron, and chlorine to penetrate the hair shaft, resulting in green tones.
Hard Water
Hard water is another culprit behind green hair. If you live in an area with hard water, it can contain high levels of minerals like copper and iron, which can deposit onto your hair and cause green tones.
Swimming in Chlorine
Swimming in chlorinated pools can also cause green hair. Chlorine can bind to the keratin in your hair, leading to the formation of green tones.
Using the Wrong Hair Products
Using hair products that contain harsh chemicals or minerals can also contribute to green hair. Some hair dyes, for example, can contain high levels of copper or iron, which can cause green tones.
What is Purple Shampoo?
Now that we’ve explored the causes of green hair, let’s talk about purple shampoo. Purple shampoo is a type of color-correcting shampoo that’s designed to neutralize unwanted warm tones in the hair. It’s typically used by people with blonde or light brown hair to maintain their color and prevent brassy tones.
How Does Purple Shampoo Work?
Purple shampoo works by depositing purple pigment onto the hair shaft. This pigment helps to neutralize warm tones like yellow, orange, and green, leaving your hair with a cooler, more ashy tone.
Can Purple Shampoo Get Rid of Green Hair?
So, can purple shampoo get rid of green hair? The answer is yes, but it depends on the severity of the green tones and the type of purple shampoo you use.
How to Use Purple Shampoo for Green Hair
If you want to use purple shampoo to get rid of green hair, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Choose a purple shampoo that’s specifically formulated for green hair. Some purple shampoos are designed to target yellow or orange tones, but not green. Look for a shampoo that contains ingredients like violet or purple pigment, which are specifically designed to neutralize green tones.
- Use the purple shampoo once or twice a week. Overusing purple shampoo can cause your hair to become too ashy or purple, so it’s essential to use it in moderation.
- Leave the purple shampoo on for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the purple pigment to penetrate the hair shaft and neutralize the green tones.
- Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. Purple shampoo can be drying to the hair, so it’s essential to follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
Other Solutions for Green Hair
While purple shampoo can be an effective solution for green hair, it’s not the only option. Here are some other solutions you can try:
- Use a color-correcting treatment. There are many color-correcting treatments available that can help to neutralize green tones. These treatments typically contain ingredients like violet or purple pigment, which can help to cancel out green tones.
- 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 contains ingredients like coconut oil or shea butter, which can help to hydrate and nourish your hair.
- Use a shampoo that’s specifically formulated for green hair. There are many shampoos available that are specifically designed to target green hair. These shampoos typically contain ingredients like chelating agents, which can help to remove mineral deposits and reduce the appearance of green tones.
Conclusion
Green hair can be a frustrating problem, but there are many solutions available. Purple shampoo can be an effective solution for green hair, but it’s essential to use it correctly and in moderation. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help to neutralize green tones and achieve a healthier, more vibrant hair color. Remember to always follow up with a moisturizing conditioner and consider using other solutions like color-correcting treatments or hair masks to keep your hair healthy and looking its best.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Healthy Hair
In addition to using purple shampoo to get rid of green hair, here are some additional tips for maintaining healthy hair:
- Use a wide-tooth comb. A wide-tooth comb is gentler on your hair than a regular comb or brush, which can cause breakage and tangles.
- Avoid using hot water. Hot water can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and damage. Try using warm or cool water instead.
- Get regular trims. Regular trims can help to prevent split ends and breakage, keeping your hair healthy and looking its best.
- Use a hair mask once or twice a week. A hair mask can help to nourish and moisturize your hair, keeping it healthy and looking its best.
By following these tips, you can help to maintain healthy, vibrant hair that looks and feels its best.
What causes green hair, and how is it related to purple shampoo?
Green hair is often caused by the buildup of mineral deposits, particularly copper, from swimming in chlorinated pools or using hard water. This can react with the hair’s pigment, resulting in an unwanted greenish tint. Purple shampoo is designed to counteract this effect by depositing purple pigment onto the hair shaft, which helps to neutralize the green tone. The purple pigment works by canceling out the green color, much like how purple and green are opposite each other on the color wheel.
However, it’s essential to note that purple shampoo may not completely eliminate green hair, especially if the discoloration is severe. In such cases, a more intense color correction treatment may be necessary. Nevertheless, purple shampoo can be a useful tool in maintaining healthy-looking hair and preventing green tones from forming in the first place.
How does purple shampoo work to get rid of green hair?
Purple shampoo works by depositing purple pigment onto the hair shaft, which helps to neutralize the green tone. The purple pigment binds to the hair’s keratin protein, effectively canceling out the green color. This process is made possible by the shampoo’s alkaline pH level, which opens up the hair cuticle and allows the purple pigment to penetrate deeper into the hair shaft.
When using purple shampoo to get rid of green hair, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully and use the product in moderation. Overusing purple shampoo can lead to an accumulation of purple pigment, resulting in an unwanted purple tint. It’s also important to choose a purple shampoo that is specifically formulated for your hair type, as some products may be too harsh or drying for certain hair textures.
Can purple shampoo completely eliminate green hair?
While purple shampoo can be effective in reducing green tones, it may not completely eliminate green hair, especially if the discoloration is severe. In some cases, the green color may be too deeply ingrained, and a more intense color correction treatment may be necessary. Additionally, if the green hair is caused by a underlying condition, such as hard water or mineral buildup, purple shampoo may only provide a temporary solution.
In cases where purple shampoo is not enough, a professional color correction treatment may be necessary. A hairstylist can assess the hair and determine the best course of action to remove the green tone. This may involve using a color-correcting treatment or toner, or in some cases, a more drastic color change may be necessary.
How often should I use purple shampoo to maintain healthy-looking hair?
The frequency of using purple shampoo depends on your hair type and the level of green tone you’re trying to maintain. If you have blonde or light-colored hair, you may need to use purple shampoo more frequently to maintain a healthy-looking color. As a general rule, it’s recommended to use purple shampoo once or twice a week, depending on your hair’s porosity and the level of color correction needed.
However, it’s essential to avoid overusing purple shampoo, as this can lead to an accumulation of purple pigment and result in an unwanted purple tint. It’s also important to alternate between purple shampoo and a regular shampoo to maintain a balanced hair care routine. This will help to prevent dryness and damage caused by the alkaline pH level of purple shampoo.
Can I use purple shampoo on colored hair, or is it only for blondes?
While purple shampoo is often associated with blonde hair, it can be used on colored hair as well. In fact, purple shampoo can be beneficial for anyone with light-colored hair, including those with highlights or balayage. The purple pigment can help to neutralize any unwanted warm tones and maintain a healthy-looking color.
However, it’s essential to choose a purple shampoo that is specifically formulated for your hair type and color. Some purple shampoos may be too harsh or drying for certain hair textures, so it’s crucial to read the label and follow the instructions carefully. Additionally, if you have dark-colored hair, you may not need to use purple shampoo as frequently, as the purple pigment may not be as noticeable.
Are there any alternative solutions to purple shampoo for getting rid of green hair?
Yes, there are alternative solutions to purple shampoo for getting rid of green hair. One option is to use a color-correcting treatment or toner, which can be applied to the hair to neutralize the green tone. These treatments can be more intense than purple shampoo and may provide longer-lasting results.
Another option is to use a shampoo specifically formulated to remove mineral deposits and product buildup, which can help to prevent green hair from forming in the first place. These shampoos often contain ingredients such as EDTA or citric acid, which help to break down and remove mineral deposits. Additionally, using a water filter or a shampoo specifically designed to combat hard water can also help to prevent green hair.
Can I make my own purple shampoo at home, or is it best to purchase a commercial product?
While it’s possible to make your own purple shampoo at home, it’s generally recommended to purchase a commercial product. Commercial purple shampoos are specifically formulated to provide the right amount of purple pigment and pH level to effectively neutralize green tones.
Attempting to make your own purple shampoo at home can be tricky, as it’s difficult to achieve the right balance of ingredients. Additionally, using the wrong ingredients or proportions can lead to an ineffective or even damaging product. Commercial purple shampoos have undergone rigorous testing and formulation to ensure they are safe and effective, making them a better option for most people.