Carnauba Wax vs. Sealant

Many customers don't know the difference between wax and sealant. To make auto detailing experience less of a headache we have provided helpful information that can make your detailing more effective and enjoyable. This will also help you decide which is right for you as a consumer.

Carnauba Wax

There are different kinds of waxes used in the auto detailing industry as the core ingredient for automobile care wax products. Carnauba wax is most popular due to its natural essence. It comes from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree grown only in the northeastern Brazil yielding the hardest and highest melting of the natural waxes. The quality of the wax is based on its grade: color (yellow to white), purity (synthetically or naturally derived), and where it is grown. Naturally carnauba wax is yellow. The more yellow the color of the wax the more pure it is. Thus the wax content in car wax determines the value. The greater the wax concentration the more expensive it gets. Greater wax concentration means higher performance.

Carnauba wax provides protection and also enhances the cosmetic quality of the paint surfaces. With the application of carnauba wax the paint surfaces repel water and most contaminants. It also protects the paint from UV rays, heat, and moisture via prevents it from oxidation. At the same time carnauba wax produces a deep, rich, warm and wet glowing finish. The down side is that generally carnauba wax doesn't last as long as a synthetic sealant, ~1-3 months versus ~5 months. The durability of the wax heavily depends on the climate and the frequency of the drive.

Sealants

Paint sealants are synthetically produced and are polymer base comprised of many linked synthetic particles. They are in liquid form and are easy to apply by hand or with a polisher. Sealants provide a slick and glossy finish to the paint surfaces, although not as deep and warm as carnauba. The fact that sealants typically lack depth because it sits rigidly on the paint like a shell creating an ultra-reflective look. The advantage of using sealants is that they are more durable than the best carnauba wax.

In the end, paint sealants or carnauba wax is based on preference and type of users. They each provide their own unique cosmetic qualities. Those who want to save time working and more driving, lean toward sealants since they are an instant cosmetic gratification, fast and easy, and more durable. In the case of car enthusiasts who wouldn't mind spending the time, carnauba wax would absolutely demonstrate a stunning car show quality.

Combo of Sealant & Wax

For a good compromise, a layer of sealant topped by a layer of wax provide both durability and additional depth of shine finishing.

Usage

We highly recommend when working on waxes and sealants find a shady spot. Most excellent, high end waxes and sealants are not designed to be used under direct sunlight. Majority prefer products that both get the job done and convenient where direct sunlight is still safe to use. For the application of wax or sealant simply use foam wax applicator, a microfiber applicator, or a microfiber towel. The application of paste wax is easiest using foam applicators.

Comparison Summary

Wax	Vs	Sealant
Protective coating.		Protective coating.
Improve shine and prevent oxidation.
Hide paint imperfection such as cover up or mask swirl marks.
Extremely wet, deep shine finishing, and very warm appearance.		Give paint surface ultra smooth & ultra reflective.
Lasts more than 1-3 months.		More durable and lasts more than 5 months.