Stop Paint Skinning

[Robert Brandt2]

Some time back, probably a couple of years, I read an item here about a way to stop paint from forming a skin in a closed can. I think it was about oil based paint, but it might apply to latex as well.

The solution was to spray some of this product into the paint can each time you closed the can, just before the top was sealed. I think the product was Dust Off, Dust Buster, or something similar. I THINK the critical component was diflouroethane, but anything which is heavier than air should work.

Does anyone know what the recommended product was? or how well it works?

thanks,
robert

[Steve Bigelow]

I know Bloxygen claims to reduce / eliminate paint skinning. I bought a can, but have honestly never used it. It doesn't work on water based, lacquer, or shellac, which about all I use nowadays.

You can make up your own if you want. Vinegar and baking soda (just a little of each!). Mix them together in a pitcher, and then "pour" the gases off into the can. They are heavier than air, and you may feel silly doing it, but this is supposed to work.

[Scott Holmes]

Steve,

"It doesn't work on water based, lacquer, or shellac,... "

None of these are reactive finishes, skinning is not an issue. Bloxygen works by displacing the air (oxygen) in the can.