
You can use makeup remover to clean sunscreen stains from car leather. Makeup remover is specifically designed to remove skincare products and cosmetic residues, offering strong cleaning capabilities. Pour the makeup remover onto a cotton pad and gently apply it to the areas with sunscreen stains. Then, use a clean tissue to wipe the area lightly, and the sunscreen stains on the car leather will be completely removed.

I've also had trouble with sunscreen stains on leather seats before. The main issue is the oily ingredients, which become harder to remove if left on the leather for too long. I recommend first using a dry cloth to wipe off any excess sunscreen—avoid scrubbing hard. Then, find a specialized leather cleaner, spray it on a soft-bristled brush, and gently scrub in circular motions. Personally, I use a foam-type cleaner with good results. After brushing, wipe twice with a damp, well-wrung towel, and make sure to open the windows to air-dry thoroughly. If the stain persists, try dabbing it with a medical alcohol wipe, but remember to avoid the stitching areas. To prevent this hassle, it's best to use a light-colored seat cover for sun protection.

Removing sunscreen stains from genuine leather follows similar principles to polishing leather shoes, with an emphasis on gentleness. First, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any particles from the seat crevices to avoid scratching the leather surface again. Avoid using wet wipes directly, as the alcohol in them can cause the leather to turn white. I usually mix a bit of baby shampoo into warm water, dip a sponge in it, and gently dab the stained area, waiting ten minutes before wiping in circular motions. For stubborn stains, use a cotton swab dipped in essential balm for spot application—it works instantly. After cleaning, remember to apply a leather conditioner, just like applying face cream to skin, to restore shine and form a protective layer. Developing the habit of laying down a sunshade towel is the most hassle-free solution.

It's quite frustrating when sunscreen gets smeared on leather seats, but I found a solution using items readily available at home. Mix baking soda with a few drops of olive oil to form a paste, then use a toothbrush to scrub the stain. Wait for fifteen minutes before wiping it off, and the grease will mostly break down. If you're worried about color differences, soak a cotton pad in milk and apply it for half an hour before wiping. After cleaning, keep two things in mind: avoid using a hairdryer to dry the seat—let it air dry naturally to prevent cracking; applying egg whites every three months works great for maintenance, being cheaper and more effective than commercial leather conditioners. Long-term care is far more important than temporary fixes.


