Should I polish a matte finish?

Matte finishes have a rough surface and there's some science behind why it looks the way it does. TLDR—Light isn't reflected on vehicles with a matte finish, unlike a smooth clear coat finish. You can tell if a finish is matte by looking at its luster. If the finish looks dull and is consistent, then it's probably a matte finish. Due to this reason, a detailer should never polish a vehicle with a matte finish.

Our reasons:

1. It alters the appearance of the finish - Polishing will make the finish glossy, which is the opposite of what matte is. Polishing a matte finish can alter the color and appearance of the finish. The glossiness created by polishing can make the color appear deeper or richer than intended. It can also create a blotchy or uneven appearance, which can be difficult to correct.
   
   
2. It Can Be Difficult to Restore - If a matte finish has been polished or damaged, it can be difficult and costly to restore. The rough texture of the matte finish is difficult to replicate, and specialized products and techniques are required to restore the original finish.
   
   
3. It Can Damage the Finish - Matte finishes have a rough surface texture that is specifically designed to absorb light and minimize reflections. Polishing a matte finish can damage this texture and make the surface appear glossy or shiny. In addition, using abrasive polishing compounds can cause micro-scratches and swirl marks that are difficult to remove.

To maintain the appearance of your matte finish, it's important to avoid polishing it. Instead, use a gentle car wash soap and a soft, non-abrasive cloth to clean the surface. If you have any questions or concerns about maintaining your matte finish, consult with a professional car detailing service for guidance.