I thought I would just clarify what has happened here.
On some leathers, when you apply the Leather Colourant - PU, it can go slightly tacky. This is due to reactions with plasticiser, grease, oil or whatever else could be in the leather.
The original PU finish we had didn't always take this tackiness away. About 6 months ago we increased the strength of the finish so that it 100% sealed this in.
About 3 months ago we put a new additive (not from 3M), into the finish. This really toughened the finish up, making it almost impossible to remove once applied and cured. The new additive offers great scuffs and scratch resistance.
So, if you have any finish older than 6 months, I would advise replacing it. Other than that, its all good to use. All new finish is being supplied with the additive in. It also grealty improves the testure and of leather.
As for the balms, we still sell these, but we have also added leather dyes to the range. Peter, I am unsure how the balm would rub off onto peoples clothes, as once it is applied it really is colour fast. The only thing I can think of is, if it is applied to a pigmented leather, it will only soak into the exposed leather and not through the paint. So, it can require a lot of buffing if over applied.
If on aniline or pull up, if you put too much on, it will sit on the surface and not soak in (the leather can only absorb so much) so will require buffed off. It is always best to coat the leather with protection cream after.
Other additions to our range are;
1. New Glue. Once applied, this is tougher than the leather. We have tested this and if you fix a tear, and try and rip it open again, the leather rips before the tear.
2. New prep. Stronger than the old and not as smelly!
3. Degreaser, but this has been out a while now.
4. Matting agent. To kill the shine on the colours.
hope this clears things up