The role of a LSP

A proper detailing regimen to me, consists of the following steps.

Wash
Clay
Polish
LSP

I've talked to a lot of people, and many many many MANY of them are somehow convinced that the LSP step is the most important determining factor in the shine and gloss department. LSP = last step procedure.

To make things simple, it isn't. In getting optimal results from paintwork, most detailers would agree its somewhere around 80% or even 90%. The final coat of wax does what it does best. It PROTECTS, it doesn't really give a totally mind-blowing look that's radically different from the polishing step. Some products bump up the gloss a little, others mute the metallic flake in the paint.

The main point is that they are supposed to protect, aesthetic bonuses are just that, bonuses. You get your results from the polishing, and you protect it with your LSP.

Here's a pic of a Nissan Latio I did a few days back.



As seen on the picture, the right side of the door has been polished, and no LSP (waxes or sealants) have been applied. In some cases, professional detailers unwillingly apply LSPs because LSPs cause minor optical distortions.

In case you still don't have a clue as to what are LSPs, they are typical waxes and/or sealants.