It’s one thing when you choose to color your hair a lovely shade of green, but have you ever spent oodles of time and money on gorgeous blonde highlights only to have them turn a nasty shade of green after a trip to the pool? Or maybe you’re naturally blonde but by the end of a summer in the pool no one would know?

What about those pretty blonde hair extensions? Ever had them turn PINK from chlorine?

Whatever your woes, we’ve compiled a list of tips to help your summer hair stay green (or pink) free.

PREVENTION IS BEST

The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is truth. The best way to stay green-free is to protect your lovely blonde locks before you get in the pool. It’s important to remember that chlorine is also in the air surrounding the swimming pool so putting your hair in a ponytail and trying to keep it dry isn’t going to be enough.

Instead try this:

1. Apply a thick conditioner (or oil) to damp locks. The conditioner helps prevent the pool water from soaking into your hair. (Extensions? Try using a natural based sunscreen to protect your locks).
   
2. Twist hair into a couple French braids, tuck ends back into the braids and secure with soft bands. The braids will help keep the conditioner from rinsing out as quickly and make detangling later a breeze. Hair too short to braid? Try a bun or a swim cap. The key is to keep as much of your porous ends as possible out of contact with the water.
3. Shampoo your hair with a chlorine removing shampoo and hydrating conditioner (we recommend Malibu Swimmers Wellness) as soon as you get out of the pool—don’t wait until you get home. The longer you let the chlorine sit the more damage it can do.

too late, I'm green!