How to Prevent & Remove Oxidation From Clear Coat


How to Prevent & Remove Oxidation From Clear Coat


How to Prevent & Remove Oxidation From Clear Coat

Faded, chalky paint doesn’t mean your car is beyond saving. In this guide, you’ll learn how to safely remove oxidation from clear coat and restore gloss using Picture Perfect Polish followed by Tough As Shell for durable protection and shine.

Estimated Reading Time: ~10 minutes

Understanding Paint Oxidation

Oxidation happens when the clear coat’s protective layer breaks down from UV exposure, heat, and environmental contamination. The result is dull, chalky, and faded paint that loses depth and gloss. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent clear coat failure.

The good news? Most surface-level oxidation can be corrected at home using the right polish and protection products — no expensive respray required.

What You’ll Need

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Oxidation from Clear Coat

Step 1: Wash and Decontaminate

Start with a deep wash using The Super Soaper to remove dirt, wax, and contaminants. Dry the surface with a microfiber towel before polishing.

Step 2: Inspect the Paint

Run your hand over the paint — if it feels rough or gritty, use a clay mitt or bar to remove bonded contamination before polishing.

Step 3: Apply Picture Perfect Polish

Using a foam pad or dual-action polisher, apply a small amount of Picture Perfect Polish to a 2x2 section. Work the polish in overlapping passes until it becomes clear. This product combines cutting and finishing in one step, removing oxidation while leaving a smooth, high-gloss finish.

Step 4: Wipe Off and Inspect

Buff the area with a clean Everyday Microfiber Towel. You should see restored color, depth, and reflection immediately. Repeat as needed on remaining panels.

Step 5: Protect with Tough As Shell

After polishing, spray Tough As Shell onto the panel and spread evenly with a microfiber towel. Let it cure for a few minutes, then buff to a slick, hydrophobic finish. This ceramic layer locks in shine and prevents new oxidation.

Erase Years of Fading

Picture Perfect Polish cuts through oxidation and restores rich color and clarity — all in one simple step.

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Comparison: Oxidation Removal Methods

Method Effort Level Results Durability
Rubbing Compound (Old-School) High Removes oxidation but leaves haze Low
Picture Perfect Polish (One-Step) Low–Medium Removes oxidation & finishes glossy High (with protection)
Repaint / Respray Very High Perfect finish Very High (expensive)

Preventing Future Oxidation

  • → Wash regularly with The Super Soaper to remove contaminants before they etch.
  • → Reapply Tough As Shell every 3–4 months for continuous UV protection.
  • → Park in the shade or use a car cover when possible.
  • → Avoid abrasive cleaners or dish soaps — they strip protection.
  • → Keep microfiber towels clean to prevent micro-marring that accelerates oxidation.

Seal Your Shine

Tough As Shell locks in your newly polished finish with durable ceramic protection that resists UV, dirt, and fading for months.

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Related Reading

FAQs

What causes clear coat oxidation?

Oxidation is caused by UV rays, pollution, and chemical exposure that break down the top layer of paint over time.

Can oxidation be removed by hand?

Yes — with Picture Perfect Polish, light to moderate oxidation can be removed manually using a foam applicator and microfiber towel.

How do I know if my paint is too far gone?

If you can see color transfer on your towel or areas where the clear coat has peeled, professional repair may be required.

Will waxing prevent oxidation?

Wax helps, but modern ceramic sprays like Tough As Shell provide far longer UV and chemical resistance.

How often should I polish to prevent oxidation?

Once or twice a year is enough. Over-polishing can thin the clear coat — focus more on protection with ceramics.