Galveston Goo: Is Sunscreen Melting Faster on Cars?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 6, 2026

That slick, almost invisible film on your car after a day at the beach isn’t just salt spray. It’s a complex concoction, and if you live in Galveston, Texas, you know it well. It’s “Galveston Goo,” and it’s a pain.

This article will explore the anecdotal phenomenon of “Galveston Goo” - a sticky residue on cars in hot, humid climates like Galveston, Texas - investigating if sunscreen ingredients contribute to its formation and if certain sunscreen types exacerbate the issue. We’ll provide a DIY guide on how to remove this residue safely and effectively, focusing on readily available products in Texas, and offer tips on parking strategies and sunscreen choices to minimize future buildup, especially for residents near the Gulf Coast.

The question is: does sunscreen play a role in this sticky situation? The answer, unfortunately, is a resounding yes.

Sunscreens, especially those containing avobenzone and octinoxate (common chemical UV filters), are known to react with minerals in hard water and pollutants in the air. This reaction creates a sticky, almost varnish-like substance. Add in the high humidity and intense sunlight of Galveston, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for “Galveston Goo.”

But not all sunscreens are created equal. Mineral sunscreens, containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are generally less reactive. They form a physical barrier against the sun rather than relying on chemical reactions.

Let’s get practical. You’ve got a car coated in this sticky mess. What do you do?

Here’s a DIY guide to removing Galveston Goo, using products you can easily find at your local H-E-B or auto parts store in Galveston:

The Pre-Wash: Start with a thorough rinse using a pressure washer, if available. This removes loose debris and surface-level grime.
The Soap Solution: Mix a generous amount of car wash soap (Meguiar’s Gold Class is a good option) with warm water in a bucket. Avoid dish soap, as it can strip away wax and damage your car’s paint.
The Application: Using a microfiber wash mitt, gently scrub the affected areas. Focus on small sections at a time.
The Goo-Gone Treatment: For stubborn spots, apply a small amount of Goo Gone Automotive directly to the residue. Let it sit for a minute or two, but no longer.
The Re-Wash: Immediately re-wash the area with your car wash soap solution to remove any Goo Gone residue.
The Clay Bar (Optional, but Recommended): A clay bar is your secret weapon. It removes embedded contaminants that washing alone can’t touch. Use a clay bar lubricant (like Meguiar’s Quik Detailer) to prevent scratching.
The Polish (If Necessary): If the clay bar doesn’t completely remove the residue, you might need a mild polishing compound. Use a dual-action polisher for best results, but hand polishing can work too.
The Wax/Sealant: This is crucial. Apply a coat of wax or sealant to protect your paint and make future cleaning easier. Collinite 845 Insulator Wax is a popular choice for its durability and water beading properties.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Using Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid harsh chemicals, scouring pads, or anything that could scratch your paint.
Letting Cleaners Dry: Never let cleaning products dry on your car’s surface, especially in the sun.
Skipping the Wax: Waxing is not just for aesthetics. It’s a protective layer that prevents the goo from bonding to your paint.
Using the Wrong Microfiber Towels: Use only microfiber towels designed for car care. Avoid using old bath towels or shop rags.

Minimizing Future Buildup:

Sunscreen Choice Matters: Opt for mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) whenever possible. They’re less likely to react and create the sticky residue. Brands like Blue Lizard and Thinksport are good options.
Application Location: Apply sunscreen indoors or away from your car. This prevents overspray from landing on your vehicle.
Parking Strategies: Park in shaded areas or garages whenever possible. This reduces the amount of direct sunlight hitting your car and baking on any sunscreen residue. Consider using a car cover for added protection.
Regular Washing: Wash your car frequently, especially during the summer months. This prevents the buildup of sunscreen and other contaminants.
Consider a Ceramic Coating: A ceramic coating provides a durable, hydrophobic layer that makes it much easier to remove contaminants. While it’s an investment, it can save you time and effort in the long run.

Real-World Scenario:

Let’s say you’re a resident of the San Jacinto neighborhood in Galveston. You walk to the beach every day, slathering on sunscreen before you leave. You park your car on the street, exposed to the sun and sea breeze. Following the tips above, you could switch to a mineral sunscreen, apply it inside your home, and invest in a car cover. You could also start washing your car weekly at the self-service car wash on Seawall Boulevard.

The Science (Simplified):

The stickiness comes from the chemical breakdown of sunscreen ingredients under UV light. Avobenzone, for example, degrades into compounds that can react with pollutants and minerals, forming a resinous substance. Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, are more stable and less prone to this breakdown.

Beyond Sunscreen:

While sunscreen is a major contributor, other factors can also play a role in “Galveston Goo.” These include:

Salt Spray: The salty air near the Gulf Coast is corrosive and can contribute to the buildup of residue.
Air Pollution: Industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust can react with sunscreen and other contaminants.
Tree Sap: If you park under trees, tree sap can add to the sticky mess.

The Long-Term View:

Protecting your car from “Galveston Goo” is an ongoing process. It requires a combination of smart sunscreen choices, proactive parking strategies, and regular maintenance. By following the tips outlined above, you can keep your car looking its best, even in the challenging climate of Galveston, Texas. Don’t let the goo win!