Swirl marks are light, circular scratches often caused by buffing with a compound. As the compound cuts away the oxidized paint layer and reduces the depth of deep scratches – by abrading away their "ridges" – it can cause light scratches, especially on dark colors.Fear not, for swirl marks can be buffed out with a high speed buffer, polishing pad and a glaze or polish (as can light scratches and oxidation not severe enough to compound). For a complete listing of Car Brite glazes and polishes, See the Glazes & Polishes section of the Products page.Glazes and polishes are lotions containing mild abrasives and resins (usually silicone) that can be applied with a buffer or by hand. Glazes tend to be more aggressive, while polishes tend to generate more gloss.The abrasives remove swirl marks by abrading away their "ridges" in a manner similar to compounding, but with much less paint being removed. The resins fill any indentation in the paint too deep to be abraded out, and bond to the surface.By removing the "ridges" and filling any remaining indentations, the painted surface is leveled, which restores its gloss. The newly level surface reflects light in a uniform manner causing the eye to perceive a deep, rich shine.In addition to providing "fill", the resins deflect the sun’s ultraviolet rays (minimizing further oxidation) and magnify the gloss created by the newly level surface.The durability of the bond between the resin and the painted surface will vary depending on the number and type of resins used. Silicone is the most common resin, and certain chemically-bonding silicones can last up to six months. Glycerin and mineral oil are also used, but aren’t nearly as durable.When polishing, buff at 2400 - 2800 rpm (the resins provide added lubrication which allow for higher buffer speeds), and utilize a lambswool, blended wool or foam polishing pad. Also, follow the buffing guidelines listed in Question #4.This process is illustrated in greater detail in the Removing Scratches, Oxidation and Swirl Marks section of the Professional Automotive Reconditioning process.