How to Recondition Faded Exterior Plastics
Over time, exterior plastics and trim fade from black to gray due to sun exposure and oxidation. In this guide, you’ll learn how to clean, polish, and restore faded plastics using Picture Perfect Polish and All Dressed Up — for a rich, factory-fresh look that lasts.
Estimated Reading Time: ~10 minutes
Why Exterior Plastics Fade
Sunlight, heat, and environmental contaminants slowly break down the surface oils in plastic trim. UV rays oxidize the material, leaving it chalky, gray, and brittle. Over time, untreated plastics lose color and moisture, leading to cracks and discoloration.
The good news? You can restore the original deep black look with proper cleaning, light polishing, and a protective dressing that nourishes the surface.
What You’ll Need
- Picture Perfect Polish – to clean and restore color depth
- All Dressed Up – to protect and condition plastics
- Microfiber towels (Everyday Microfiber)
- Applicator pad (All Blacked Out Applicators)
- Soft detailing brush
- Optional: heat gun for extremely faded plastics
Step-by-Step: How to Restore Faded Plastics
Step 1: Clean the Surface
Start by washing the plastic trim with a pH-neutral soap like The Super Soaper. This removes surface grime and residue that can block the restoration products from bonding properly.
Step 2: Decontaminate
Use a soft detailing brush and microfiber towel to scrub textured plastics, especially around edges or grooves. This ensures all dirt and oxidation are lifted from the surface.
Step 3: Lightly Polish the Plastic
Apply a small amount of Picture Perfect Polish to a microfiber or foam applicator. Work in circular motions to restore depth and remove light oxidation. The polish’s fine abrasives and oils rejuvenate color and prep the surface for dressing.
Step 4: Wipe and Inspect
Buff away residue with a clean towel. You should already see improved color depth and a smoother surface texture. If the plastic still looks uneven, repeat the polish step.
Step 5: Dress and Protect
Once clean and polished, apply All Dressed Up with an All Blacked Out Applicator. This water-based dressing penetrates the plastic, restoring moisture and UV protection without greasy shine. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes, then buff off any excess.
Bring Plastics Back to Life
Picture Perfect Polish gently restores color and clarity to faded plastics, prepping them for protection and long-lasting depth.
Shop Picture Perfect Polish Buy on AmazonComparison: Plastic Restoration Methods
| Method | Longevity | Finish | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone-Based Dressing | Short (1–2 weeks) | Glossy, greasy | ❌ |
| All Dressed Up (Water-Based) | Long (1–2 months) | Matte OEM finish | ✅✅ |
| Heat Gun Reflow | Medium | Darkens surface | ⚠️ For pros only |
Pro Tips for Plastic Restoration
- → Always start with a clean surface — dressings won’t bond to dirty plastics.
- → Apply All Dressed Up in thin, even layers for best absorption.
- → Avoid petroleum-based products that can dry out rubber or plastic over time.
- → For extremely faded trim, polish twice before dressing.
- → Maintain monthly for consistent UV protection and color richness.
Protect Your Plastic Trim
All Dressed Up restores color and shields plastics from UV fading — leaving a clean, non-greasy OEM finish that lasts for weeks.
Shop All Dressed Up Buy on AmazonLong-Term Maintenance Tips
- → Reapply All Dressed Up every 4–6 weeks for continuous protection.
- → Wash with The Super Soaper — it won’t strip your dressing.
- → Keep a separate applicator pad just for exterior trim.
- → If water stops beading, it’s time to reapply dressing.
Related Reading
- How to Clean Engine Plastics & Rubber
- How to Eliminate Car Paint Swirl Marks
- How to Tackle Salt & Road Debris on Paint
FAQs
Can I use All Dressed Up on interior plastics?
Yes — it’s completely safe on both interior and exterior surfaces and dries to a satin, OEM-style finish.
How long does the restored look last?
Typically 4–6 weeks outdoors, depending on sun exposure and washing frequency. Regular maintenance extends longevity.
Is Picture Perfect Polish safe for textured plastics?
Yes, just use minimal pressure and a soft applicator to avoid clogging texture grooves. It restores color without residue.
Will a heat gun permanently restore faded trim?
It can help temporarily, but it doesn’t protect against UV — always follow up with All Dressed Up for durability.
Does All Dressed Up leave a shiny finish?
No — it dries matte and clean, unlike silicone-based dressings that create gloss or sling.
