Glaze

A glaze is a term we at New Again don't use because it isn't something that is used within the professional detailing industry in the UK, at least not yet. It is put onto various retail products, aimed mainly at enthusiasts. 

By definition, a glaze is a product you put onto something to make it shiny. However, polishing does that, so do waxes, sealants, coatings, even quick detailer products and show-shine.  Therefore, products labelled as glazes don't do anything definitionally different to anything we are already using (we don't use show shine products).

Glaze may be applied to synthetic waxes which are fairly long lasting, or show-shine products which are sprayed on over a wax to give a short term wet look for a few hours. We have seen it applied to all sorts of products, and so the word glaze as a category of products is functionally meaningless.

In the US, a glaze might be used to refer to a product which is body shop safe. That is that it has no wax or silicone which can interfere with the painting process.  However, in Europe, we would caution against assuming that a product which is called a glaze is bodyshop safe unless it explicitly says so.

What it means

Glazes lay down a very thin film of oils/fillers that level light micro-marring optically and deepen the “wet look”. They contain little or no abrasive and little true protection (unless it’s an AIO/“cleaner wax”). Because they’re oily, they can interfere with the bonding of ceramics and some sealants. The classic workflow is polish (if needed) → glaze (optional) → wax/sealant for show-car gloss.

Why it matters

• Instant gloss: fast way to enhance depth and hide faint hazing before an event or sale.
• Defect masking (temporary): fills hairline swirls that would otherwise need polishing.
• System compatibility: great under wax; compatibility with polymer sealants varies; unsuitable beneath ceramics.
• Expectation setting: beauty product first, protection second—top it and reapply as needed.

Where you’ll see it

Show-car prep, dealer forecourt sprucing, quick enhancement services, and enthusiasts chasing a warm “wet” look on darker colours.

Context

Car Paint Protection; Finishing products; Appearance enhancement

Common mistakes

• Using glaze under a ceramic coating: bonding is inhibited by oils—strip with panel wipe and skip the glaze.
• Expecting permanent defect removal: glaze masks; machine polishing removes defects.
• Sealing with an incompatible product: some sealants reject oily bases—test a small area or use wax.
• Panel wiping after glazing: a strong IPA/panel wipe removes the glaze you just applied.
• Applying on hot panels or matte finishes: can streak, stain or add unwanted sheen—work cool, avoid matte.

Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 10/11/2025 15:39