Review: Nanoskin Hydro Express

mjlinane

My name is Mike
Review: Nanoskin Hydro Express

Introduction:

I rarely stray from the PBMG fold. They have a great selection, excellent customer service and are competitively priced. But, as can be seen here (http://www.autopiaforums.com/forums/product-show-case/39798-first-step.html), I have pretty much every product they stock that I am interested in (except for EXO - even I have my limits). But there are other products out there.

And this got me (from detailing supply store website):
"After the vehicle has been freshly cleaned give the bottle a quick shake, apply a fine mist on a small section, spread the product nice and thin with a microfiber towel or foam applicator and you are done! If you see any excess product you can simply wipe it up with a microfiber towel, but otherwise just step back and admire the shine!"

Now, that sounds like a WOWA sealant. I love, love, LOVE WOWAs. If I see a new WOWA (or rinseless wash), there is a better than average chance it will be bought.

And, in spite of not hearing about my Autopia Dollars (did I miss a thread or PM or something, Todd? ;) ), I decided to write another review.

Thanks to Corey again for providing the format.

Product:
nSkin.JPG


Product Claims:

From the Nanoskin website:

"• The most advanced spray polymer
• The missing link between washing and waxing
• A spray polymer that actually repels water
• Lasts up to 2 months
• Enhances reflections on shiny materials
• May also be used on glass, chrome and plastic

NANOSKIN HYDRO EXPRESS is technically a spray polymer sealant. Through the use of advanced hydrophobic polymer formula, NANOSKIN has created a spray polymer that actually repels water, dissipates static, and adds additional protection to your finish. HYDRO EXPRESS can also be used on glass, chrome, and plastic. The spray dries crystal clear on any surface and enhances reflections on shiny materials, like chrome wheels and trim. It’s so easy and you can detail and protect a full size car in less than 10 minutes.
Note: HE will continue to cure for up to 24 hours."

Details:

1.- Packaging: Plastic bottle with trigger sprayer
2.- Directions: Clearly labeled
3.- Viscosity: Slightly thicker than water
4.- Color: Translucent
5.- Scent: Chemical
6.- Price at time of review: 16oz = $ 12.99
7.- Manufacturer: Nanoskin
9.- Made in: USA

Other Products Used:

16x16 MF

Preparation:

Rinseless washed car with CG Hose Free Eco Wash.

Application:

Per label:
1. Shake well. Use only on clean, cool paint and out of direct sunlight.
2. Mist HYDRO EXPRESS onto one section at a time..
3. Quickly spread product with clean dry microfiber towel.
4. Turn to a dry portion of the towel, then wipe dry.

You may have noticed, this doesn't sound like a WOWA as described on the detailing supply site. (Sad part is that these directions are immediately below the site description but I didn't read them. :( ) I was a little disappointed when I read the label but I decided to give the site instructions a chance and used it that way. Spray, wipe, and walk away (after checking for high spots). It works very well that way.

Observations:

Scent isn't great but not Sonax Full Effect bad (or even close). Extremely easy to apply (WOWA). One of the nicest, clearest finishes I've yet found. Almost looks like the clear coat is much thicker (in a good way). The most dimensional reflections I've had on my car. It also seems to enhance the contrast with the lighting on the beauty lines of my car. Excellent beading. Rather slick. Gathers less dust than most but is not the champ in that regard. Very little is required to do a car (the first pic above is the "used" bottle - my car twice and front clip of a Lexus IS300). Very, very cost effective.

Also used on the front clip of my buddy's black Lexus. Its hood was repainted and is almost too soft to touch. It spots/etches and swirls if you touch it with even the softest of MFs. Had tried OptiCoating it but it just didn't take. Thought a WOWA might have a chance (touch it less than a WOWO). It went on with no marring and looked fantastic.

Afters
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Beading/sheeting video (very light rain after 1 week's worth of driving):
[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmvQKerkaHU]Nanoskin Hydro Express Beading/Sheeting - YouTube[/ame]

Does it meet its claims?
• The most advanced spray polymer - no idea
• The missing link between washing and waxing - not even sure what that means, probably an LSP extender
• A spray polymer that actually repels water - does that very well
• Lasts up to 2 months - IDK and won't for me
• Enhances reflections on shiny materials - YES
• May also be used on glass, chrome and plastic - I did.

Pros:

1.- Beautiful finish
2.- Easy, fast application
3.- Excellent value

???:

1.- Durability.

Cons:

1.- None I've found.

Comparisons:

Do I hear requests for a WOWA survey? ;)

Final Observations and Summary:

The manufacturer claims only 2 months of durability. That doesn't bother me much because, if I get 2-3 weeks, I'm rather chuff (OptiCoated car). It really is a quick beauty product for me. And what a beauty product it is.

If you are like normal people who expect durability, this isn't likely your product. Look at Blackfire Crystal Seal or Ultima Paint Guard Plus.

Comments and questions are encouraged. Thanks for viewing!
 
Excellent review Mike. Autopia dollars will be sent out this Monday!

So was it wipe on walk away or wipe on, buff away?
 
Very Nice Review...or VNR...lol. I have that bottle I recieved with my Nanoskin Hydrophobic Nuba Wax...I have a 2010 Jeeep Patriot (Met. Black) Im going to give it a good test and review today. Do you wax then spray or just spray and wipe off?
 
Nice review Mike. I am curious about a few of their products. I saw they have a clay lube (I guess its really for their decon disks) that is supposed to leave a sealant behind.
 
Very Nice Review...or VNR...lol. I have that bottle I recieved with my Nanoskin Hydrophobic Nuba Wax...I have a 2010 Jeeep Patriot (Met. Black) Im going to give it a good test and review today. Do you wax then spray or just spray and wipe off?

Thanks. As noted, I'm not exactly sure of this product's true intent. I believe it is a spray sealant/LSP extender so would think you could go either way.

Just to be clear, I used it as a WOWA (Wipe On Walk Away) - lightly mist, spread around with a MF and done. I don't feel the WOWO (Wipe On Wipe Off) directions are needed unless you over apply it. You can see the product flash rather quickly (more like melt into the paint - slightly different than other similar products).

Nice review Mike. I am curious about a few of their products. I saw they have a clay lube (I guess its really for their decon disks) that is supposed to leave a sealant behind.

Thanks. I believe grungy got Shine, Shock & Rain and my have tried them. I'll see if I can get him to chime in.
 
I am curious about a few of their products. I saw they have a clay lube (I guess its really for their decon disks) that is supposed to leave a sealant behind.

FWIW - per grungy:

"Rain is OK.
Shock is decent enough for a quickie.
Hasn't used Shine yet."
 

Nice review Mike.

How would you compare this to Reload? I love Reload and am not sure I would want to switch.

Thanks Troy.

I think it looks a bit better than Reload but Reload beads slightly better. Believe Reload lasts longer (I get at least 2 months on my Cquartz'ed car) but costs far more. Reload smells way better. Tough call but, if you like Reload, not sure I could tell you to switch.
 
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