There is nothing quite like the heartbreak of seeing your pride and joy looking sharp after a detail, only to have the overall look let down by grey, faded plastic trims. Whether it’s Irish UV rays (yes, they exist!) or harsh road films, oxidation is the enemy of that "factory fresh" look.
At washme.ie, we stock the best the world has to offer, from the "best-kept secrets" to high-end Italian engineering. Today, we are putting two of our heavy hitters head-to-head: the versatile value king, Brayt R1, and the professional endurance master, Labocosmetica TPR.
The "Secret Weapon": Brayt R1 Regeneration
Price: €14.99 (250ml)
Best For: Enthusiasts, Weekend Warriors, and Volume Users.
If you’ve been around the trade, you might know Brayt R1 as the "detailer’s secret." It is an incredibly versatile product that offers massive bang for your buck.
The Chemistry & Use Case
Brayt R1 is a solvent-based regenerator. Unlike simple silicone dressings that sit on top and wash away, R1 uses penetrating agents to soak into the surface structure and restore lost colour from within.
- Versatility: Uniquely, it’s not just for plastics. It works wonders on metal (chrome, brass, stainless steel) and even painted surfaces.
- Finish: It dries to a flexible, resistant coat that revives the deep colour of the material.
Application & Prep
- Prep: Ensure the surface is bone dry and clean. Remove any old wax or silicone.
- Apply: Use a cloth or brush. Apply sparingly; a little goes a long way.
- Dwell time: Let it sit for 10–20 minutes to penetrate.
- Finish: Wipe off residues with a clean microfibre.
- Cure: Allow 12 hours to fully dry.
Why We Love It
For €14.99, you get a massive 250ml bottle that will last you ages. It’s perfect for the enthusiast who washes their car regularly and wants a reliable, easy-to-use product that brings bumpers and door mouldings back to life instantly.
The "Professional Coating": Labocosmetica TPR
Price: €60.00 (30ml)
Best For: Professionals, Perfectionists, and Long-Term Protection.
Labocosmetica TPR (Trim Plastic Restore) is not a dressing; it is a coating. Coming from the famous Italian "Maniac Line" creators, this is pure chemical engineering designed for longevity.
The Chemistry & Use Case
TPR creates a chemical bond with the surface. It contains no pigments or silicones. Instead, it uses a polymer structure to seal the pores of the plastic.
- Durability: Up to 3 years of protection against UV, acid rain, and chemical washes.
- Finish: It provides a "Satin OEM" look. It won't look wet or greasy; it looks exactly like the plastic did when it rolled out of the factory.
- Resistance: Highly hydrophobic and resistant to washing chemicals.
Application & Prep
Because this is a coating, preparation is surgical.
- Prep: You must degrease the surface thoroughly (we recommend Labocosmetica DUCTILE or VARIUS, followed by VERITAS).
- Apply: Apply a few drops to a microsuede applicator and spread evenly.
- Finish: Depending on the humidity, you may wipe off excess after a minute or let it absorb fully.
- Cure: Keep dry for 24 hours. Do not wash the car for 7 days to allow full chemical hardening.
Why We Love It
While €60 for 30ml seems steep, you are buying time. If you are a professional detailer offering a guarantee to a client, or an enthusiast who wants to "fix it and forget it" for the next few years, TPR is unrivalled.
The Technical Breakdown (SDS & Safety)
Both products rely on advanced chemistry, so safety is key.
- Brayt R1: Contains solvents (hydrocarbons). Always use in a ventilated area and wear gloves, as it can dry out skin.
- Labocosmetica TPR: A complex chemical coating. It is vital to wear nitrile gloves and work in a well-ventilated space to avoid inhaling vapours during the curing process.
Final Verdict: Which One is For You?
- Choose Brayt R1 if: You want a versatile, affordable product that looks great and you enjoy the process of topping up your trim every few months. It's the perfect "Saturday Morning Wash" companion.
- Choose Labocosmetica TPR if: You demand perfection and durability. If you want that factory-matte finish that resists everything the Irish weather throws at it for years, not weeks, this is the investment for you.
Both products are in stock now at WashMe.ie with fast shipping from Cork.
Need advice on prep? Drop us a message or check out our range of APCs and Degreasers!