LORE® Fingerboard and Body Wax is a versatile product that bridges two care needs: conditioning unfinished fingerboard wood and protecting finished body surfaces. Formulated with natural waxes and plant-based oils, it's designed to work effectively on both surfaces — making it an excellent choice for players who want a streamlined care kit. This guide explains how to use it on each surface and when it's the right choice.
What It's For
LORE® Fingerboard and Body Wax is suitable for unfinished fingerboards (rosewood, ebony, pau ferro) where it conditions and protects the wood, and for finished guitar bodies where it cleans and protects the finish with a natural wax layer. It is also suitable for unfinished wood surfaces such as bridges and raw wood necks.
It is not recommended for satin or matte finishes (where it may alter the sheen) or for use on finished maple fingerboards as a conditioning treatment.
Using It on the Fingerboard
- Remove the strings for full access.
- Clean the fingerboard with a dry cloth to remove loose debris.
- Apply a small amount to a cloth — a little goes a long way. Work the wax into the fingerboard in small sections, along the grain.
- Leave for 5 minutes to allow the conditioning oils to absorb into the wood.
- Wipe away all excess with a clean, dry cloth. The board should feel smooth and conditioned, not waxy or tacky.
The wax component provides a light protective layer on the surface of the wood after the oils have absorbed, helping to seal the grain and slow the rate at which the board dries out between applications.
Using It on the Body
- Ensure the surface is clean. Wipe down with a slightly damp cloth if needed and allow to dry.
- Apply a small amount to a cloth and work into the finish in small sections using gentle strokes.
- Allow 1–2 minutes for the wax to begin setting.
- Buff with a clean cloth to a warm, natural gloss.
The natural wax formulation provides genuine protection against fingerprints, light scratches, and moisture — without the silicone contamination risks of most commercial polishes.
Fingerboard and Body Wax vs Instrument Polish — Which to Use?
| Fingerboard & Body Wax | Instrument Polish | |
|---|---|---|
| Unfinished wood | Conditions and protects | Not designed for bare wood |
| Finished surfaces | Protects with natural wax | Cleans and protects |
| Cleaning ability | Moderate | Very Good |
| Best for | Players wanting one product for both surfaces | Players wanting dedicated body polish |
If you play regularly and want a single product that handles both fingerboard and body maintenance, the Fingerboard and Body Wax is the more versatile choice. If you prefer dedicated products for each surface and a faster application, pair the Fingerboard Oil with the Instrument Polish.
How Often to Apply
- Fingerboard: 2–4 times per year for rosewood, 1–2 times for ebony
- Body: Every 1–3 months, or when the finish looks dull
LORE® Fingerboard and Body Wax is designed for players who want effective, natural care without a complex product lineup. Used correctly on both surfaces, it conditions bare wood and protects finished surfaces with a single, trusted formulation. For really dry fingerboards you can pair it with the LORE® Cold Pressed Lemon Seed Oil.