TurtleWax Polish = Wax?

[daemonite]

I've been using Turtlewax F21 and TurtleWax ICE like I would waxes but I noticed on the bottle that they are labeled "Polish".

My question is, are they truly the same as wax like Turtlewax say they are?

Here's what TurtleWax.com says "The terms wax and polish are used interchangeably today. Most waxes and polishes contain some mild cleaning agents (safe for clear coat finishes) which remove old wax, minor scratches and everyday oxidation. All polish and wax products clean, shine and protect, unless otherwise stated on the label. A polishing compound or compound will clean and shine only. As always recommended, test a small inconspicuous area and always follow the back label instructions."

 

[bretfraz]

These terms, "polish" and "wax", have been so masticated over the years they almost have no meaning.

I consider them like this - "polish" is a product designed to create a high gloss and shine by removing or reducing paint defects like oxidation, swirl marks, scratches, scuffs, etc. Polishes will remove embedded contaminants in the paint and add gloss. Polishes do not have protective capabilities so they must be topped with another product, like...............

"Wax", which is a sacrificial protective layer that seals in the gloss and shine you created with the polishing and adds luster. Some waxes are combined with paint cleaning/polishing agents (aka cleaner waxes) but many have no paint polishing ability. Waxes are derived from natural sources like carnauba, montan, bees, parrafin and other ingredients. Most waxes don't have great durability and mfrs have developed new products that work like wax but offer more performance. They're called..................

"Paint Sealants", which are basically man-made "waxes" although they typically have no wax in them. Many sealants are actually called "polish" because the mfrs do not want to call them a wax when they have no wax ingredients. Sealants use modern polymer ingredients which create a product that offers a great shine, resistance to high temps and detergents, and long durability. Most new products on the market are either paint sealants or synthetic waxes as the development of wax-based products are coming to an end.

So..... it really boils down to how you use the product and what you want it to do for you, more than what the label says. AFAIK, neither F21 or Ice have wax in them (to my knowledge it is impossible to mfr a clear "wax" as wax is opaque in color). Both can considered synthetic waxes, I suppose. I do not believe there is a polymer component in Ice but there may be in F21.

Hope all this helps. I know it's confusing but such is the state of the car care product industry.