[tsubaki]

twisted's right and Skools I believe has the best approach for nondamaged gelcoat for the long run.
When buffing we used to get in a metal gallon bucket of compound and knock a hole in it about 2" round so as to be able to put a paint paddle in it. With the paint paddle we would smear or slap the car, dotting the compound around the area to be buffed.
The newer stuff you can scoot out the bottle on the area but the best way is to apply an even coat with a rag across the location to be buffed.
Buff immediately and when thru wipe off with a clean wrag and then start with the polish.
You must polish after buffing, the area is basically virgin and will hold stains easily.
Again I like Skools approach if just getting the shine back.