Kimberly,
This is a great topic. I use retouch varnish all the time in glazing techniques as an in between stage to refresh the gloss of my painting. I have been glazing with layers for years and really enjoy the effect. I did however meet an artist who once also was a wax sculptor. She showed me how to use the wax and used it just like you would use any other medium by mixing small amounts into the paint as you paint. The painting turned out to have this really beautiful natural look to it. Something that I have always wanted to try again. So, Virgil, or anyone else, I would love to hear more on this subject. Thank you for bringing it up.
Also, on the animal hair ... It's unavoidable, to be an animal lover and your studio is in the house (or is it that you live in your studio?) as many artists have to do or choose to do. Thus, unfortunately my cat's hair will become the way that historian verify fakes vs. authentic paintings in hundreds of years especially my early work!
... That and the bugs that get into plein air paintings.
Bobbi