Suntan Lotion Stains

[Randy K]

We went sailing this week and used Coppertone SPF 45 since it was a sunny day. We went on two boats (C22 and C27) and both ended up with orangish stains wherever the suntan lotion met fiberglass. It was a fair amount of work to get the stains off. We used FBS (Fiberglass Stain Remover) and Soft Scrub. Needles to stay we don't want to go through that again. Any advice as to what suntan lotions to use to avoid this in the future? Thanks.

 

[Tim]

banana boat

We use banana boat and banana boat sport all the time and have never gotten any stains anywhere on the boat. Just be careful if you get any on your knees, because if you kneel on anything painted it gets very slippery ( just like any sun tan lotion).

 

[Tim]

Earlier is better

Another solution is to put the suntan oil on earlier before you get on the boat. At least 20 minutes before exposure to the sun is recommended by most manufacturers of sun screen. I bring my kids sailing all the time. We put it on before we leave the house, then recoat as needed on the boat with Banana Boat SPF30. It doesn't seem to leave any marks at all.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - CatalinaOwners.com]

Old gelcoat?

Sounds like maybe your gelcoat has oxidized and now absorbs stuff. A good buffing and waxing might help in general.Before I repainted my boat, my gelcoat was extremely porous. Someone spilled red wine (no longer allowed on my boat) and I had a massive red stain. I didn't have time to clean it then and when I came down a few days later, it was gone. Don't know if lotion would disappear but you just never know!You might try some Almay or hypoallergenic lotion cuz they typically don't have colorings.LaDonna

 

[Gary]

Walgreens

Walgreen Drug stores have there own brand of sunblock from 8 to 40 spf whe use it all the time on our C22 with no stains.