Why Does Pool Water Turn Hair Green? - Copper & Chlorine Explained

The green colouration of hair in pools is caused by the reaction of copper with chlorine. Copper is a metal that is commonly found in pool water, and when it comes into contact with chlorine, it forms copper chloride. This compound is what gives hair its green colour.

However, not everyone who swims in a pool will get green hair. This is because the amount of copper in pool water varies depending on the source of the water and the way the pool is treated. In general, pools that use well water or spring water are more likely to have high levels of copper than pools that use city water. Additionally, pools that are not properly chlorinated are also more likely to have high levels of copper.

If you are concerned about getting green hair in a pool, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk. First, avoid swimming in pools that use well water or spring water. Second, make sure that the pool you swim in is properly chlorinated. Finally, you can use a leave-in conditioner that contains EDTA, which is a chemical that can help to prevent copper from binding to hair.