How to Restore Cloudy Headlights by Wet Sanding (600–2000 Grit, Step-by-Step)

Cloudy, yellowed headlights kill night visibility and make a car look tired. You can restore clarity at home with a careful wet-sanding sequence and a UV-safe topcoat. Follow this progression to remove oxidation without gouging the plastic.

What You’ll Need

• Masking tape and plastic sheeting
• Spray bottle with water + a drop of dish soap
• Soft foam sanding pad
• Wet/dry sandpaper: 600, 800, 1000, 1500, 2000
• Microfiber towels
• Plastic polish and a UV-sealing clear coat (or dedicated headlight sealant)

Grit Progression (Wet Sand Only)

1. Prep & protect. Wash the lenses. Mask paint and trim fully. Keep the surface wet at all times.
2. Cut oxidation – 600 grit. Sand in straight, overlapping passes using light pressure. Aim for a uniform, matte finish.
3. Refine – 800 grit. Remove the 600 scratches. Rinse paper and lens often.
4. Smooth – 1000 grit. You should see a finer, even haze.
5. Pre-polish – 1500 grit. The surface begins to look satin rather than chalky.
6. Final sand – 2000 grit. This erases micro-scratches and shortens polishing time.
7. Polish. Work a plastic polish until the lens turns clear. Wipe clean.
8. Seal. Apply a UV-safe clear coat or sealant to prevent the haze from returning.

Pro Tips

• Keep strokes straight and change direction with each grit to track progress.
• Use a foam pad so pressure stays even on the curved lens.
• Don’t skip grits—skipping leaves deep scratches that reappear under headlights at night.
• eQualle silicon carbide sheets support Wet or Dry Use (Uso en Seco o Húmedo); for headlights, stick to wet sanding only.

Links & Grits

• Super-Fine Sandpaper (600–2000)
• Fine Sandpaper (320–400)
• Shop All Sandpaper

Watch & Learn

Result: A clear, bright lens that throws more light on the road and stays clear longer when sealed properly.