I have an older flute that looks like all the finish has worn off in the lip area. Is there a fix for this? Thanks, John.
All my flutes look like this. 
A little bit of oil (any kind) restores the lustre, but it’s only a temporary fix.
Rod Cameron recommends pure Carnauba wax (Made in Brazil). But i’ve found it to be only a temporary fix too.
g
I think of it as evidence of playing; sort of a badge of honor. But that’s because, as Glauber mentioned, the contact mark is pretty tough to eradicate. Anyway, I’d rather play it than look at it. 
Shaving helps. 
djm
I assume you are talking about your Byrne flute? Bryan learned the craft of woodwind making at the same shop where I currently work, so while I can’t say with 100% certainty, I belive that in all liklihood there is no “Finish” on the flute at all - most likely the flute was sanded, buffed on a wheel with compound, oiled, then buffed on the compound wheel again. So, over time, things have gotten roughed up a little, and much of the oil has leached out of the area that touches your skin.
If I were you, I’d simply oil the area and polish with a clean soft cotton cloth, after letting the oil sit for several hours. Alternately, you could send it back to Bryan, for a light sanding and buffing, which would restore the original look.
Regards,
Loren
It’s the much older Olwell that is very worn. The Byrne has this just a little bit, so I may do what Loren says in the future. Thanks, John.
If the flute is a “plain” Olwell, the same should apply in terms of care and or restoration, however makers sometimes use alternate finishes (french polish etc.), so it’s always wise to check with the maker before doing anything radical.
Loren