Nitrocellulose Lacquer vs. Modern Polyurethane

Understanding your guitar's finish is essential to avoid permanent chemical damage:

Nitrocellulose Lacquer

Traditional vintage finishes (found on vintage guitars, Gibson USA, and Fender Custom Shop) are formulated with nitrocellulose resin dissolved in volatile solvents. It creates an ultra-thin, breathable, resonant coating that naturally ages, checks, and wears gracefully.

The Danger: Nitrocellulose is chemically reactive. Never place a nitro-finished guitar on stands padded with synthetic rubber or surgical tubing; chemical plasticizers will leach into the lacquer, leaving melted, gummy burn marks within 48 hours.

Polyurethane & Polyester

Found on modern production guitars. These two-part catalyzed polymers cure into a virtually indestructible, chemically inert shell. They resist sweat acids, beer spills, and rubber stand reactions, but are very difficult to spot-repair if cracked.