Low molecular polyethylenes, paraffins and waxes have been used for years for the improvement of the surfaces of paints and coatings. The difficult, expensive and -- in the hot process -- rather dangerous preparation of ready-to-use dispersions of the above-mentioned materials has caused the development of micronized materials. These may be used without additional treatment and without using heat for the production of a wide range of varnish systems with improved surface finish. -- AATA