How to Remove Sunscreen from Concrete

Sunscreen can leave an oily stain on concrete. Use the methods below to restore the concrete to a sunscreen-free state.

• Cornstarch
• Baking soda
• A broom and dustpan
• Dish soap or liquid detergent
• Ammonia

1. Cover the sunscreen with a generous amount of an absorbent powder, such as cornstarch or baking soda.¹
2. Allow the powder to absorb the oils from the sunscreen for several hours or overnight.
3. Sweep away the powder.
4. If any stain remains, use a dish soap¹or liquid detergent²to scrub the stained area. The soap should help to cut through the waterproof sunscreen so that it can be removed.
5. For a stronger solution, dilute ammonia to 10% and scrub the concrete with the ammoniated water.

• Do not use salt as an absorbent powder on concrete. Any remaining salt residue will soak into the concrete and reappear later as efflorescence.
• Use caution when working with ammonia. For more ammonia safety information, see Wikipedia.

1. Natural Stain Removal Secrets by Deborah L. Martin
2. The Spot and Stain Remover Handbook by Jean Cooper