How to remove sunscreen stains from clothes (and how to prevent them e

September 14, 2021

Ultraviolet rays are the primary cause of the harmful effects of the sun, including premature ageing and skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen with at least 30 SPF, which defends against 97 percent of UVB rays. The sun can penetrate clouds and windows, so you need to wear sun protection even on cloudy days and when staying indoors. Facetheory’s whipped mousse moisturiser Amil-C Whip M5 SPF 30+ makes it easy to incorporate daily sun protection into your skin routine by integrating hydration and SPF in just one step. It refines and brightens your skin while protecting it against UV damage.

One thing to be aware of when wearing any type of sunscreen is that its ingredients can interact with the alkaline substances or metal ions present in water and this may cause staining of your clothes over time. Here are some helpful tips on how to prevent sunscreen stains from appearing and, if they do appear, how you may be able to remove them.

Here are two recommended methods for eliminating sunscreen stains. We recommend trying the natural method first, as this will be gentlest for your clothing.

The natural method requires bicarbonate of soda – an ingredient you likely have handy in your kitchen. Wipe away any excess sunscreen and sprinkle bicarbonate of soda onto the stain until it is fully covered. Let sit for 30 minutes and then handwash with lukewarm water and laundry detergent. Leave to soak overnight and then wash it in the washing machine along with your next load of laundry.

If this doesn’t work, you can then try using a stain removing product. Apply a stain remover and let it sit for least for 20 minutes before washing. Use a toothbrush to rub detergent into the stain and then wash it with your next load of clothing on a normal warm cycle.

Now that you’ve treated the sunscreen stain, what can you do to prevent sunscreen stains from appearing in the first place? Synthetic fibres tend to retain stains while natural fibres such as cotton are less prone to hold the stain. Sunscreen stains are also more likely to appear on light coloured clothing, so when wearing white or pale colours, take extra care.

Don’t apply sunscreen immediately before getting dressed. When getting dressed or undressed, be aware of avoiding getting your clothing in contact with the sunscreen. Avoid pulling clothing over your head if you are wearing sunscreen – pull down clothing and step out of it where possible or pull the neck of your top away from your face when pulling it over your head.

Try to apply your sunscreen at least 5-10 minutes before getting changed, so that it has the chance to be completely absorbed into your skin. In case it comes into contact with your clothing, it will be less likely to cause stains.