Sorry if this is the wrong place to post or such posts are not dealt with in this forum.

I have a pair of boots and sandals, both nubuck leather, whose nap has been matted down or thoroughly destroyed, I dont know the difference so can't say.
The boots got ruined by applying polish over it. Wax polish. The nap doesn't change when I swipe my hand over it. IF there is hope of restoring it, how do I do so? If not, can I just apply wax polish all over to give it a consistent color? :/ And keep using the shoes as such until they are complete trash.
The sandals' nap has matter/been destroyed by not brushing it and the accumulation of HEAVY amount of dirt. So much so that wherever dirt has accumulated, it is kind of thicker and darker in color. Same question for the sandals. Thanks