Once the paint is contamination-free, applying a layer of car wax or paint sealant is the final step to exterior car detailing. Numerous paint protection products are available, ranging from tried-and-true carnauba wax to high-tech ceramic sealants. Paste waxes and paint glazes will fill in minor paint defects and help enhance the car’s appearance. While paint sealants don’t offer much in terms of filling defects, they do, however, provide extended durability and remarkable hydrophobic properties.
When shopping for a car wax or paint sealant, check if it’s for cleaning or finishing. Paint protection products formulated for cleaning the paint can have mild abrasives or chemicals that help further enhance the paint’s shine and ensure a long-lasting bond. Finishing waxes are abrasive-free and allow multiple layers of protection to be applied to increase the product’s lifespan and reduce the frequency of application. Layering a cleaner wax or sealant isn’t possible since the second coat will remove all or most of the first coat.
Expert Tip: Wash the car wax and paint sealant removal towels separately from the car drying towels to prevent cross-contamination. The drying towels will absorb product from the paint protection removal towels, making them hydrophobic and ineffective at absorbing water.