This article is written by Jeff McEachran, National Brand Manager for GYEON quartz USA and owner of Denver Auto Shield in Denver, Colorado.

The best way to start this conversation is to take a moment and think about what we are trying to achieve in coating modern leather seats and interior pieces. We apply long-term protective coatings to any surface to prevent or minimize the slow degradation of those surfaces due to exposure to daily life. In modern leather seats, in particular, we are looking to keep the surface protected from UV damage (drying and fading), reduce the amount of contaminant it absorbs (skin oils and dirt that create the “shiny” leather), reduce “die transfer” (the die of a new pair of jeans or pants rubbing off on the leather), and reduce the cracking or breakdown of the leather over time (usually seen in the side bolster).

Both Gyeon quartz Q2 LeatherShield and Q2 LeatherCoat solve all of the problems listed above, just in slightly different ways.

Both products are designed for modern leather, leaving an invisible layer that does not affect the color, look, or feel of the surface. Both products are hydrophobic and repel both dirt and liquids. Both provide strong protection from UV rays. Both create a very slick surface to protect against the wearing down of the leather material as well as die transfer.

The difference is in the chemical makeup of each, their application, and their intended durability.

Let’s assume your leather has already been cleaned with a high-quality leather cleaner like Q²M LeatherCleaner.

Q2 LeatherCoat is water based, using a resin as its main active ingredient to provide UV protection, slickness, and its hydrophobic properties. Q2 LeatherCoat is very fast and easy to install and is designed to last up to 3 months.

Once the leather is clean, simply spray one or two sprays of Q2 LeatherCoat on to a high-quality microfiber towel and work it into the surface.

Q2 LeatherCoat is great for the DIY user who wants a fast and simple way to protect their leather and is fine applying it a few times a year. From a service perspective, Q2 LeatherCoat is great to recommend to clients who may have chosen your long-term leather protection service as a maintenance upkeep product. It can be used over Q2 LeatherShield as needed.

Q2 LeatherShield is your long-term option. It is based on Silica Dioxide, requires a more “formal” coating application and is designed to last upwards of one year. Leather is a tough surface on which to mark durability, as it is solely based on use and abrasion. For example, the rear seat of a car that doesn’t see much action will last much longer than the driver’s seat.

Q2 LeatherShield is very unique in its application. Again, we want a well prepared and clean surface. Apply a generous amount of Q2 LeatherShield on to the Suede Applicator. Work into a controlled area. Q2 LeatherShield does not need to be immediately “wiped off”. The product will appear “wet” on the leather. Allow it to dwell for up to 10 minutes and permeate the pores of the seat. After 5-10 minutes depending on working environment, wipe off any remaining product.

I hope this sheds some light on to which leather specific product from Gyeon quartz may be best for you! I’m glad to answer any questions in the comments below.