A color change paint and varnish removal formulation is provided. The formulation comprises: at least one penetrant, at least one carrier and at least one colorant whereby the formulation is applied to the target area and as the surface of the formulation dries, the carrier partially dehydrates emitting white light as the colorant migrates away from the dehydrating surface and there is a color change to indicate that the stripping action of the formulation has ceased and is ready for the scraping and removal step.