What happens when you polish paint. Swirls, or "micro-marring," are fine scratches on a car's clear coat often caused by incorrect washing. Polishing removes a thin clear coat layer, using fine abrasives to smooth out these scratches. The process generates heat which can soften the clear coat, but too much heat is harmful. While polishing enhances a car's shine, it thins the clear coat, so it's key to limit heavy polishing. After smoothing, protect the paint with a sealant or wax to guard agains