With a multitude of polishes, sealants and waxes on the market, many claiming to be the glossiest, shiniest, wettest, most durable, quickest or easiest to use, the level of choice seems endless. Indeed without trying out a large percentage, it would be difficult to identify the best products from the mediocre ones. However that is impractical not to mention prohibitively expensive. It is far more sensible to take recommendations from those who have hands-on experience, working with a diverse range of products day to day, and who rigorously test the latest products on a continual basis. Another way to distinguish what you might like, is to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of particular products (based on actual contents) and weigh up the pros and cons accordingly. You can then narrow down the options to a small list of products, which suit your requirements. Also bearing in mind the characteristics of specific paint colours or special effects. Thereby helping to select products which complement your vehicles finish type.

There are three categories of paint protectants. (1) Synthetic (sealant) products made of polymers or acrylic resins; (2) Natural Waxes, usually Carnauba-based; (3) Blended Waxes, which are combinations of both natural and synthetic (man-made) ingredients. Note: Some manufacturers name or label certain retail and consumer products as "polishes" or "waxes" when in fact they are sealants. This is for marketing and sales reasons (consumer-friendly terminology), and it can lead to some confusion. Usually, a wax can be applied on top of a sealant, yet most sealants will not bond to a wax.

Carnauba waxes produce a glossy, wet-look with added depth of shine (especially on darker colours) and an element of warmth to the finish. Synthetic sealants or waxes produce a bright, reflective, shiny finish which can truly sparkle. Carnauba waxes can mask minor paint defects where as synthetic products tend to highlight them. Conversely synthetic sealants can make the flakes in metallic paint stand out or "pop" in strong sunshine, where as carnauba waxes tend to mute same. Synthetic products are more durable than carnauba waxes, so offer longer-lasting protection. Natural (carnauba) waxes bead water, where as sealants have a tendency to sheet it. Carnauba waxed finishes can yellow, where as synthetics can look a little sterile (subjective of course, in the eye of the beholder). The accepted wisdom is that once you find something which works for you (on a personal level), best to stick with it. (Yet feel free to experiment all you like!).

Nowadays, virtually all vehicle paints include a clearcoat. In times past, only metallic or pearl-effect paints were afforded same. Not only does a clearcoat protect the base colour, it adds gloss and depth to the finish. Many older vehicles in solid colours, only had single-stage paint (no clearcoat), so would fade quickly if they were not cared for and protected properly (polished at least once a year and waxed regularly). In this era carnauba waxes compensated for the lack of a clearcoat in terms of finish enhancement, not just protection. While they still have a place today, it is not as relevant anymore. With advances in technology, synthetic products can be engineered to do things naturally derived waxes cannot. They are gradually tweaked and reformulated to enhance capabilities and improve performance, so the possibilities are endless. Modern (water-based) paints and clearcoat finishes still require TLC. But a more systematic approach to care and protection, which includes proper washing methods, careful cleaning (surface preparation), the correct polishes (and polishing techniques), durable protectants and sealant or wax friendly maintenance products.