Armor All's legacy began in 1962 when a 21-year-old polymer chemist named Joe Palcher invented a milky-white "miracle" formula to protect rubber, plastic and vinyl surfaces from UV radiation and ozone. Joe was an early pioneer in the defense of vehicles from the powerful and harmful effects of nature's elements.

In 1966, a local auto shop owner convinced Joe to bottle and sell the formula. Named Tridon ("no dirt" spelled backwards), the product quickly grew in popularity across the U.S. Among the automotive industry and everyday car owners alike, it became clear how easy it could be to keep a vehicle looking like new.

By 1971, the product - renamed RT-10 - was in great demand. In 1972, Alan Rypinski, a marketing specialist and automotive enthusiast, secured RT-10's exclusive sales rights, formed a new company called Armor All, and renamed the product Armor All® Protectant.

Alan's goal was to make the powerful enhancement and shine capabilities of this formula available to car owners worldwide. In 1976, Armor All® Protectant received a patent for its unique formula; in 1979, the company became Armor All Products Corp., and Armor All® Protectant received a second patent for its exclusive infusion method, which allows its chemicals to penetrate the surface and protect it from degradation