Picture this: you have spent the perfect day outside, with the sun shining brightly and your skin safely shielded by your zinc sunscreen. Yet, as the day ends, you’re faced with another problem - how to get the stubborn white residue that comes with sunscreen out from your skin and clothes. Zinc sunscreens, while being the best in the game when it comes to UV protection, are known for leaving behind annoying stains.
Whether it be from your skin or clothes, the process of having to remove zinc sunscreen can seem a bit more challenging than applying it. Fortunately, though, there are some tried and tested methods to get rid of that white residue without causing any damage.
Read this article to uncover the easiest and most effective ways to remove zinc sunscreen from your body, your face, and your clothes, ensuring you attain all the benefits of using sunscreen without any of the hassles!
Understanding Zinc-Based Sunscreens
Before getting into the removal process, it’s important to first understand why using a zinc-based sunscreen is so important for your skin- it’s the same thing that makes it difficult to remove too.
The key ingredient in such sunscreens is zinc oxide, a mineral that forms a protective barrier on top of the skin. This physical barrier reflects harmful UV rays from the sun in order to protect our skin and hence why it is recommended by dermatologists, especially to those with sensitive skin.
Zinc oxide protects against both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, premature ageing, and even skin cancer, and unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb UV rays, zinc sunscreens reflect them off of the skin, making it a safer choice.
However, that’s what makes it so difficult to remove as well. Since it is water-resistant and of a thick consistency, it sticks tightly to both skin and clothes, forming a visible layer that can be difficult to wash away, but it is equally as important to know how to do so.
Why Is Removal So Important?
Clearly, zinc-based sunscreens are the best when it comes to sun protection, knowing how to effectively remove it from the skin and from clothes is just as important. Here’s why:
1. Preventing Skin Irritation
Zinc oxide results in the formation of a thick layer on your skin which, overtime, can trap dirt, sweat, and other impurities that irritate the skin. This can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, irritation, or in some cases, dermatitis— especially for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
2. Avoiding Stains on Clothing
Zinc based sunscreen is known for leaving white stains on clothes, especially dark-coloured ones. If left untreated, these stains can become permanent, ruining your favourite outfits! Knowing the right techniques to remove these stains can save your clothes from damage and keep them looking fresh.
3. Maintaining Skin Health
Sunscreen residue that isn’t fully removed can interfere with your skin’s natural renewal processes. This means that leftover zinc particles may contribute to a dull complexion because it prevents the shedding of dead skin cells. Removal allows your skin to breathe, repair, and absorb other nourishing products more effectively, promoting overall skin health.
4. Preventing Build-Up on the Skin
As discussed, over time, repeated application of zinc sunscreens without removal can lead to a build-up of zinc oxide residue. This build-up not only makes it harder for later sunscreen applications to adhere properly to the skin but can also hinder the effectiveness of other skincare products applied afterwards.
5. Avoiding Unwanted Residue
Zinc-based sunscreens tend to leave a white cast on the skin, that is, a layer of whitish residue which can be particularly noticeable on darker skin tones. Without proper removal, this residue can linger and affect the appearance of your skin, leaving it looking dull. Removing zinc sunscreen thoroughly helps maintain your skin’s natural tone and glow.
6. Enhancing Comfort
Lastly, that grimy feeling of your skin being coated in a thick, greasy layer long after you’ve come indoors is extremely uncomfortable. By effectively removing zinc sunscreen, you can enjoy the comfort of clean, fresh skin without any leftover residue at the end of the day.
Thus, although zinc sunscreens are clearly a crucial step in your skin care routine, effective removal not only keeps your skin healthy and ensures that it is receptive to benefits from other products, but also helps keep your clothes in top condition.
How to Remove Zinc Oxide from Face
Follow this step-by-step routine to ensure adequate removal from the face:
1. Initial Cleansing
Use Oil-Based Cleanser: Zinc sunscreen is oil-based, so it makes sense to use an oil-based cleanser to effectively remove it from your face. Apply a small amount of oil-based cleanser to your hands and gently massage it into your skin in circular motions before washing it off.
Alternatively, if an oil-based cleanser is unavailable, gently massaging olive, almond or coconut oil over your face might get rid of that sunscreen. The oil will help to break down the zinc oxide without any harsh scrubbing, making it easier to wash away.
Try Micellar Water: Although not as highly effective as an oil-based cleanser, micellar water is another excellent option for removing zinc oxide from the skin. For this method, soak a cotton pad with any micellar water and wipe it over the areas where you've applied sunscreen (ideally all over your face and neck). This works as a gentle, no-rinse cleanser powered by tiny particles called micelles that attract and lift away the sunscreen, leaving your skin clean, refreshed, and hydrated.
Use a Gentle Exfoliant: For particularly stubborn residue, consider using an exfoliant that is gentle enough for daily use. A mild scrub can help lift away any remaining sunscreen, dirt, and impurities without irritating the skin. However, make sure to choose a product that is suitable for your skin type and avoid using anything that is too harsh or abrasive on the skin. Always do a patch test first to avoid this!
2. Follow Up with a Cleanser
After the oil has worked its magic, follow up with your everyday facial cleanser. Wet your face with lukewarm water and use your fingertips to apply the cleanser. Make sure not to scrub your skin because it can irritate the skin.
This double-cleansing method is recommended by dermatologists to ensure that your skin is thoroughly clean, and your pores are able to breathe! Try the Clariderm Anti-Acne Face Wash for a gentle cleanser that can help remove the excess oil and other impurities without causing any irritation or redness.
3. Rinse Well
Splash your face with lukewarm water to remove any leftover cleanser and sunscreen residue and to ensure a completely cleansed and fresh face.
4. Moisturising Your Skin
After successfully removing the sunscreen, it's essential to replenish your skin's moisture that has been lost during the cleaning. Zinc oxide can be drying, so applying a good quality moisturiser will help soothe your skin and keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Your best bet in this case is the Hydra FX Moisturising Cream which works specifically to help with skin dryness and restore any damage!
How to Remove Zinc Sunscreen from the Body
It’s equally important to remove sunscreen from the body, and follow these steps for a thorough removal:
1. Warm Shower
Rinse yourself off with a warm shower to help loosen up the sunscreen residue to make it easier to wash off.
2. Bar Soap or Exfoliating Body Wash
Most of the time all you really need is a bit of bar soap. Apply some kind of soap or body wash to your skin and, if available, use a soft washcloth or loofah to gently rub the skin in circular motions. The texture will help dislodge the sunscreen.
An exfoliating body wash would help to physically lift sunscreen from the skin’s surface, making it easier to wash away. Since it is slightly abrasive, an exfoliant can help really get rid of any sunscreen residue that stubbornly clings to the skin. You could even make your own scrub using sugar mixed with coconut oil!
3. Rinse Well
Whether you end up using soap or an exfoliant, this step always remains the same. Always remember to rinse your body thoroughly with warm water ensuring that not only sunscreen, but also all soap is removed to avoid irritation.
4. Pat Dry and Moisturise
After your shower, remember to pat your skin dry instead or rubbing it to avoid any irritation or damage.
Moreover, as with your face, your body too needs to be moisturised to keep your skin hydrated and soft. Make sure to use a soothing lotion or moisturiser of some kind to ensure that your skin does not dry out and gently apply it all over your body to look and feel your best!
How to Get Zinc Sunscreen Out of Clothes
Getting zinc oxide off of clothes can be a pain if it stains, so follow these steps to ensure fresh and clean clothes:
1. Act Quick
One of the most important things you can do when trying to remove zinc based sunscreen residue from clothing is to act fast. The longer the sunscreen sits on the fabric, the more time it has to set and potentially stain. As soon as you notice the sunscreen on your clothes, follow these steps:
2. Blot the Excess
If the sunscreen is still wet, use a clean cloth or napkin to blot the excess. That is, press the cloth to the area where the sunscreen is— do not rub, as this can push the sunscreen deeper into the fabric fibres, making it harder to remove from clothes.
3. Apply Baking Powder and Dish Soap
Baking powder contains stain-lifting properties, while dish soap is excellent for breaking down the oils in zinc-based sunscreens. To get the best results, mix 1-2 tablespoons of baking powder with a few drops of dish soap to form a thick paste and apply a generous amount of it directly onto the sunscreen stain. Gently work this mixture into the fabric using your fingers in circular motion. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes for the zinc oxide and the oil to be broken down.
4. Rinse with Cold Water
Once this mixture has worked its magic, rinse the affected area with cold water to help the stain be lifted without causing any damage to the clothing. Avoid using hot water because it might set the stain.
5. Wash as Usual
Once the stain has been treated, wash the clothes as usual in the washing machine. Check the care label on your clothing to ensure that the proper washing instructions are followed, using the appropriate water temperature, preferably cold or warm, but not hot water. Also avoid using bleach, as it can react with the sunscreen and cause yellowing.
6. Air Dry
After washing, air dry the garment instead of using a dryer. This is because the heat from the dryer can set any remaining stain, making it more difficult to remove. Once the garment is dry, check to see if the stain is still visible. In the rare case it is, repeat the process before drying again.
Other Effective Methods For Removal
While the most basic and easiest methods have been laid out above, exploring alternatives can be beneficial to those with specific needs, preferences, and availability. Here are some other methods that may work as well:
1. Baby Wipes
One of the best on-the-go solutions to get zinc sunscreen off the skin and clothes is baby wipes. They are formulated with gentle cleansing agents that help break down the oils and zinc oxide in sunscreen, making it easier to lift away from surfaces like skin and fabric without the need for water. Most importantly though, they are convenient and easily accessible, so always keep a pack of baby wipes handy in your bag for quick clean-ups!
2. Cornstarch or Talcum Powder
If you don’t have access to water or cleansers, both cornstarch and talcum powder work effectively on skin and clothes because they both have absorbent qualities that make them excellent at drawing out oils in zinc based sunscreen, making it easier to brush away.
For use on the skin, dust and gently massage a small amount of cornstarch or talcum powder onto the areas where the sunscreen is still present. After a few minutes, use a soft cloth or tissue to wipe away the powder and sunscreen residue. Follow up with a gentle cleanser if needed to ensure all the sunscreen is removed.
For use on clothes, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder directly onto the stained area, let it sit for 10-20 minutes to allow absorption, and then brush off the excess powder. Wash the clothing as usual, ideally in cold water to prevent any remaining stain from setting.
3. Vinegar
To get the more stubborn zinc sunscreen stains out of clothing, a vinegar solution can be effective. Make this solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and cold water and apply it to the stained area. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing and washing as usual.
Vinegar works because its acidic nature helps break down oils and cut through greasy residues and it can help lift stains by loosening the bond between stains and cloth fibres. So, grab that vinegar out of your kitchen and get going!
4. Lemon Juice On White Clothing
Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent that can help to lighten stains on white clothing because of its acidic levels that can help break down and dissolve staining compounds. Apply fresh lemon juice to the stained area and let it sit in the sun for a few hours before washing as usual. This method is especially effective on white fabrics, but use it carefully on coloured garments as it can cause fading.
Preventing Stains
Knowing how to remove stains is all well and good, and is important knowledge one should have, but prevention is always better than cure, so here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Apply Sunscreen Before Dressing
To avoid getting zinc sunscreen on your clothes in the first place, apply it before getting dressed. This gives the sunscreen time to absorb into your skin and reduces the risk of transferring it to your clothing.
2. Choose the Right Sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are created equal. Look for sunscreens that are labelled as "non-greasy" or "quick-absorbing” as these are less likely to transfer onto clothing.
3. Be Careful with Dark-Coloured Clothes
As discussed, zinc sunscreen is known for leaving white stains on dark-coloured clothing. If possible, wear lighter colours when applying zinc sunscreen, or be extra careful when dressing.
Conclusion
Zinc-based sunscreens are clearly a fantastic option for those looking for effective, broad-spectrum protection. However, the challenge of removing them from skin and clothing might deter you from opting for them. Fortunately, with the understanding that such sunscreens are formulated to stick around, and by arming yourself with the right techniques and products, you can easily get zinc sunscreen out of clothes and off your skin without leaving stains or causing damage.
Remember to act quickly, use the right products, and follow the steps outlined above to ensure a stain-free experience every time you use zinc sunscreen. The perfect method involves the right products, and a thorough removal of removing sunscreen and other impurities over-stripping the skin. Adopting this approach will leave your skin protected, healthy, and vibrant.
So, head over to Rederm Aesthetics to grab those products for your skin and with a little guidance from this article, you can enjoy all the benefits of zinc-based sun protection without the mess!
