How to Hide Scratches on Your Phone and Laptop![]()

Scratches on your phone or laptop are almost impossible to avoid. After just a few months of everyday use, small marks start showing up on the back or lid of your device. Even if it still works perfectly, scratches can make it look old and worn out.
The good news: you don't need an expensive repair to fix the look of your device. Below are five simple, affordable ways to hide scratches and refresh your phone or laptop — plus how to stop new ones from happening.
What Causes Scratches on Phones and Laptops?
- Carrying your device alongside keys, coins, or other sharp objects
- Placing it on rough or dusty surfaces
- Everyday wear and tear from regular use
- Accidental drops or friction during travel
Understanding the cause is the first step to preventing future damage. Now, here's how to deal with the scratches you already have.
1. Cover Scratches with a Skin Wrap
The easiest and most affordable way to hide scratches on a phone or laptop is with a skin wrap — a precision-cut vinyl layer that fits your exact device and instantly refreshes its look.
Not all skins are created equal, though. Quality matters most in the vinyl itself: options like 3M's Controltac and Comply technologies (the same material ProSkinz uses) make a skin wrap easier to apply and reposition, while built-in air-release channels stop the bubbling that cheaper wraps are prone to.
A good skin wrap can:
- Hide existing scratches completely
- Give your phone or laptop a fresh new look — from subtle carbon and matrix finishes to bold neon or camo
- Protect against future scratches and daily wear
- Remove cleanly, without sticky residue, when made from premium 3M vinyl
- Be swapped for a new design anytime without damaging your device
This is the go-to solution for most people, since it combines a cosmetic fix with ongoing protection at a fraction of the cost of a repair.
2. Use the Right Polish
For light surface scratches, the right polish can help reduce their visibility. The best choice depends on your device's material:
|
Material |
Recommended Polish |
Notes |
|
Plastic |
Plastic polish |
Effective on light surface scratches |
|
Metal |
Metal polish |
Works well on fine scratches |
|
Glass |
Cerium oxide polish |
Only for light scratches; avoid on smartphone or tablet screens — it can damage the protective coating |
Tip: Always follow the product instructions and test on a small, hidden area first.
3. Get Professional Help
If scratches are deep, a professional repair shop can often improve their appearance using specialized polishing tools and compounds. This route is generally safer and more effective than DIY methods at home, especially on glass or coated surfaces.
4. Replace the Damaged Part
When scratches are severe and other methods don't help, replacing the damaged part is an option — though it can be costly. This is usually worth considering only for significant, visible damage rather than light cosmetic wear.
5. Prevent Future Scratches
A few simple habits go a long way toward keeping your device looking new:
- Use a protective phone case
- Carry your laptop in a padded sleeve
- Keep your device away from keys, coins, and other sharp objects
- Apply a skin wrap for ongoing, everyday protection
Avoid These DIY Scratch-Hiding Hacks
You may come across online tips claiming toothpaste, baking soda, or oils can hide scratches. These methods aren't recommended — they can damage your device's finish or protective coating and often make scratches more noticeable, not less.
Conclusion
Light scratches can often be made less noticeable with the right approach, while deep scratches usually call for professional repair or a part replacement. If you want a simple, affordable, no-risk option, a skin wrap hides scratches, gives your phone or laptop a fresh new look, and protects it from everyday wear — all in one step. Browse ProSkinz's collections to find a finish that fits your style, from Carbon and Matrix to Neon and Camo.
FAQs
-
Can scratches be completely removed?
Light surface scratches can often be made less noticeable, but deep scratches usually can't be fully removed. -
Is toothpaste safe for hiding scratches?
No. Toothpaste can damage your device's finish or protective coating and may make scratches more noticeable. -
Does a skin wrap hide scratches?
Yes. A skin wrap doesn't remove scratches, but it effectively covers them while protecting your phone or laptop from future wear and tear. -
What's the best solution for deep scratches?
Deep scratches are hard to minimize. If repair or replacement isn't worth the cost, a skin wrap is a simple, affordable way to hide scratches and refresh your device's appearance.


