If you’ve noticed mysterious orange or pinkish spots appearing on your towels, especially darker ones, you’re not alone. In many cases, the cause is benzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient found in acne treatments. Popular in both over-the-counter and prescription skincare products, benzoyl peroxide is highly effective at targeting breakouts. However, it also acts as a strong oxidizing agent. Instead of leaving a traditional stain, it removes the dye from fabric fibers—essentially creating a bleach mark. When this happens on navy, black, or charcoal towels, the stripped dye can reveal bright orange, yellow, or even pink tones underneath. A simple way to tell the difference: lighter patches usually indicate bleaching, while darker marks are more likely traditional stains.
One important thing to understand is that once fabric dye has been removed, it cannot be restored. No detergent, stain remover, or extra scrubbing will bring the original color back. In fact, washing affected towels with other laundry may transfer residual product and lead to additional discoloration. While benzoyl peroxide is the most common reason for these marks, other factors can sometimes create similar effects. For example, iron in water from older plumbing systems can cause reddish-brown streaks on multiple fabrics. Certain types of bathroom bacteria may also produce pink or orange buildup, though these can usually be cleaned away with proper disinfecting.
The good news is that you don’t need to give up your skincare routine. Small adjustments can protect your towels and prevent further damage. Consider using designated white towels for your face, since white fabric won’t show bleaching. Rinse your skin thoroughly after applying acne treatments to remove any leftover residue before drying off. You can also check product labels and explore alternatives if fabric damage becomes a concern. If towels are already affected, repurpose them as cleaning cloths, car-drying towels, or gym rags. With a few simple precautions, you can keep both your skin and your linens in great condition.