Abstract: A process for improving the life of papermaking belts containing a cured photosensitive polymeric resin is disclosed. The process includes the continuous application of an effective amount of chemical compounds capable of slowing down the degradation rate of the photosensitive polymeric resin to the belt's surface during the papermaking operation. Preferably, the chemical compounds are antioxidants which inhibit or retard oxidation of the cured resin and its ensuing degradative effects.