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Car wax protects paint from harsh environmental factors like heat, chemicals, bird droppings and oxidation. It also gives your car a bright, eye-catching shine.
Car buffs are often fond of natural car waxes made from ingredients like beeswax or carnauba. However, synthetic polymer car waxes are considered more durable and offer longer protection.
1. Carnauba Wax
Carnauba wax gives a natural sheen and luster to your car’s paint job. It also protects against environmental stressors like humidity and pollution. This car wax can be found in spray or paste form and is very durable, lasting a long time if reapplied properly. It does tend to be more expensive than synthetic waxes and sealants but it’s still a good option for those who want a top-rated, natural shine that can last for months.
Pure carnauba wax is derived from the leaves of a special type of palm known as Copernica prunifera that grows in northeast Brazil. Workers beat the leaves of this plant to collect its natural, oily wax flakes. Manufacturers blend this substance with other oils and chemicals to make it easier to work with and more stable. This car wax is often used at commercial car wash facilities and it’s usually applied near the end of the wash process. It can be purchased at most automotive stores or online.
2. Silicone Wax
Silicone wax is one of the most misunderstood chemicals in the car detailing business. It is a great protectant and helps to preserve the results of polishing your vehicle.
It creates a hydrophobic layer that makes water bead and roll off your paint finish instead of sticking to it, which also prevents corrosion and rust. It also increases abrasion resistance and reduces the appearance of swirls, scratches and oxidation.
It contains a unique blend of cleaners, conditioners and durable silicones that provides an incredible shine. It works well on paint, glass and chrome surfaces, is easy to apply and dries quickly to a clean, shiny finish. It also provides a protective seal against road grime, bug splatter, tar, diesel soot and bird droppings to keep your vehicle looking clean and professional for months.
3. Graphene Wax
Graphene is an incredibly thin substance that provides amazing protection, far more than ceramic coatings and carnauba waxes. It is highly effective at absorbing UV rays, which keeps paint color bright and reduces signs of fading. It also enhances the durability of your car’s finish, reducing the frequency needed for touch-up.
Compared to carnauba wax, a graphene solution requires less frequent reapplication and offers much longer-lasting protection. This is a good option for professional detailers who are looking to offer their customers superior protection and longevity.
Graphene oxide is the main ingredient in many graphene paste waxes, but you can find products that utilize genuine graphene as well. Regardless of the type, the best way to apply these products is to thoroughly clean your vehicle before application. This includes washing, claying, and/or polishing your vehicle’s paintwork. Follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully when applying the product. It’s important to apply a thin layer one panel at a time and allow the product to dry to a haze before wiping it off with a premium microfiber towel.
4. Ceramic Wax
Ceramic car wax is a more durable alternative to traditional carnauba wax. While traditional wax is derived from the leaves of Brazil’s carnauba palm, ceramic wax is made from silicon dioxide (SiO2). While it is not as natural as carnauba wax, it does provide better UV protection and offers a higher level of shine and gloss.
Graphene + ceramic wax is made from SiO2 and other chemical polymers, which are applied either by hand or sprayed on the surface of your vehicle. Graphene oxide, which consists of oxidized carbon atoms, is often added to these products as it provides gloss and hydrophobic properties. Polymers are also included to provide durability and longevity.
These products can be used wet or dry, and they are usually recommended to be applied after using a clay bar to remove any surface contaminants. They are easy to use, and they offer better long-lasting protection than traditional waxes. They also require less frequent reapplication.
