Experts Explain How to Prevent Sunscreen Stains on Clothing
Experts at Real Simple explain that sunscreen stains on clothes are caused by ingredients such as avobenzone reacting with minerals in water. Choosing anti-stain products and applying sunscreen early enough to let it absorb can help prevent the marks.
Summer often means frequent use of sunscreen, but many people come home from vacation to find greasy yellow or brown stains on clothes, swimwear, towels and even furniture. Regular washing is often not enough to remove these marks, which can make a favorite white shirt seem ruined.
Laundry care experts at Real Simple say the problem is not caused solely by the sunscreen itself. Certain ingredients, such as avobenzone, can react with minerals in water and oxidize. This reaction leaves stubborn stains on fabric that may survive a normal wash cycle.
The good news is that clothing does not necessarily have to be thrown away. To avoid the issue in the future, experts recommend choosing sunscreens labeled “anti-stain.” It is also important to apply the cream before getting dressed – and to wait until it has been fully absorbed into the skin before putting on clothes. In other words, sunscreen should be applied well ahead of time, not right before pulling on a shirt or swimsuit.
Although the article’s headline promises methods for getting rid of existing stains, the advice provided focuses mostly on prevention. Following these steps can help protect summer clothing, swimwear and towels from unpleasant marks.
