Polishes and waxes are often misinterpreted to be the same thing but on the contrary, they’re actually completely different products with different roles.
Polishes enhance the paintwork by using abrasives to remove any defects, swirls or fine scratches.
Waxes protect the paint after polishing. Waxes are either made form a natural carnauba product or are a synthetic product. Both versions do not have any abrasive compounds, so will not rejuvenate a paints condition but create a protective layer over the paint itself.
In addition to these specific products you can also purchase all in one products that will polish and also protect the paint. Usually all in one products with have a lighter abrasive compound compared to standalone polishes, which means it will only remove smaller swirls and scratches. These products are best used for a maintenance wash rather than a full detail, as generally the vehicles paint would be in a better condition and would only require a fine abrasive to rejuvenate the paint.
What to use to apply your polish
If you're using a machine polisher, I would recommend a dual action machine. The dual action movement not only spins but also oscillates. The best way to describe it, is that is moves in a similar motion as our planet. The oscillation means that at any one time at least a section of the pad has left the surface of the paint and as a result doesn't create as much heat as a standard spinning polisher. This oscillation reduces heat, and means its generally a safer option. Too much heat generated from a standard machine polisher could cause damage to the paint itself.
You can also apply polish by hand using a soft sponge applicator, and is perfect if the paint only requires a maintenance wash, however if the paint requires a more detailed level of paint correction then a machine would be best.
Preparation
When applying a polish it is important to prepare the car before starting. I would recommend that the car is always clay bared before applying a polish as this will ensure that the paint surface is as clean and smooth as possible to allow the polish to do its job.
Once you've decided which tool you are going to use, I always prime the polishing pad. What this means is that you apply enough polish to the pad to cover the entire surface and allow the polish to be absorbed. This helps keep the pad cool and reduce the risk of it over heating when being rubbed into the paint. If using a machine polisher I would recommend to start with the softest pad first, and trial an inconspicuous area to see how the polish is working with your paint. All paints react differently as each manufacture paint is different. If the softest pad isn't giving the desired effect you can work your way to the harder pads.
Technique
Polish a section or panel at a time using a hashtag motion (up & down and side to side), and then remove with a soft, clean micro fibre towel. It should leave a smooth shiny surface.
Applying wax
When applying a wax a soft sponge applicator will be fine. At this stage you shouldn't need to apply any pressure to the paint surface as the paint should be smooth following the polish. Similar to the polishing process, rub off any excess wax with a soft micro fibre towel.
Once your car has been polished and waxed it will be protected and should give you a wet look mirror shine. This protection will also make it easier to maintain, as a simple maintenance wash would help keep that showroom finish for months to come.