This is the most common question we get. Our products are designed to clean and condition the surface, not to add foreign material or alter the card stock (like inking or trimming). When used correctly to remove dirt, grime, and surface hazing, our kits are simply revealing the card's original condition. However, we always recommend testing on a low value card first

In the hobby, "altering" usually refers to adding colour, or trimming edges - things that fundamentally change the card. The PokeMender system is a restoration and cleaning tool. Think of it like washing and waxing a classic car; you aren't changing the car, you are just removing the dust and scratches that shouldn't be there.

We designed this kit for collectors, not chemists. If you can wipe a pair of glasses, you can use our system. However, patience is key. We also recommend testing on a low-value card first like a common foil or energy card to get a feel for the pressure and drying time before moving to your high-value collection. We believe in showing, not just telling. View our video restoration lab here to watch us demonstrate the process step-by-step on real cards.

You can, but you must be gentle. The Holo Heal and Finishing Polish are perfect for the holographic box on vintage cards. However, we recommend avoiding heavy polishing on the printed yellow borders, as the ink density from that era is different from modern cards. Understanding the correct pressure is vital for these older cards. Check out our deep-dive Polish application video here to see how we safely treat vintage surfaces.

We are proudly Australian. Every kit is hand-packed and shipped from our studio in Melbourne, Australia. We package every order with the same protection we expect when we receive Pokémon cards.

We stand by our craftsmanship. If you aren't satisfied with the results, or if the kit doesn't meet your expectations, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund. We want you to feel safe trying "ThePokeMender" difference.