Can Sunscreen Damage Your Engagement and Wedding Rings?

We asked fine jewelry expert Lana Myers of Gold & Ivy Studio for her take.

Whether you’re going to tropical beaches on your honeymoon or just laying around by the pool, wearing sunscreen is one summer skincare step you can't skip. But does that daily ritual damage your skin, or can sunscreen hurt your engagement and wedding ring?

To get the straight talk on it, we consulted fine jewelry expert Lana Myers of Gold & Ivy Studio. Here’s everything you need to know about how SPF sunscreen can affect your rings, how to prevent damage and what to do if sunscreen gets on your jewelry.

Is Sunscreen Bad for Your Engagement and Wedding Rings?

Sunscreen is good for your skin, bad for your jewelry — the stones, in particular. While the bands themselves are typically fine, the greasy ingredients in sunscreen can grime up your gems, Myers says.

“Oils leave a thin film over diamonds and other stones that make them look cloudy,” says Myers. “If you leave residue on your ring, it can build up over time and make your ring look dirty.”

Sunscreen may also be stuck under the stones and in prongs, which over time becomes grimy.

Preventing Sunscreen From Hurting Your Rings

Myers suggests taking your rings off before applying SPF. Slip them back on after the product has fully absorbed into your skin. Depending on your plans — swimming or beaching, for example — it’s probably best to leave them behind entirely.

Or if you’re on the go, slip on a wristband with a zip pocket to safely house your rings while your sunscreen dries.

What to Do If Sunscreen Gets on Your Rings

And don’t fret if you forget once or twice — your rings aren’t ruined. To rid your jewelry of sunscreen at home, simply scrub it with some warm water, mild dish soap and a gentle toothbrush.

“If you have build up, clean your rings quickly,” Myers says, “it is okay.” “They will freshness up immediately.”

Between the manufacturers’ methods: For extra tough buildup or extra peace of mind, a professional cleaning can be a good choice at any time.

Protecting Your Rings During Sunscreen Season

Clean Them Regularly

Particularly during the summer, aim to clean your rings at least once a week to avoid the accumulation of sunscreen and oil. Go to a jeweler twice a year for a professional cleaning, in-depth cleaning.

Know When to Take Them Off

It may feel strange to strip off such a meaningful piece of jewelry, but removing your rings prior to coating yourself in sunscreen — and keeping them off until your skin is dry — can keep that sparkle intact. Water and sweat can make lotion run, so it’s usually best to not bother with the rings while wearing SPF at all.

Get Them Insured

Your rings are symbolic in two ways — and pricey, to boot. Myers suggests you insure yourself for peace of mind. Insurance can protect against loss, theft and damage, so your beloved pieces could always be repaired or replaced if required.