Oxidation removal on tailights/headlights

So next to pulling out a buffer and trying that I have used lots of elbow grease and various home chemicals (CLR being one of them), is there a chance that a buffer and some polish can remove that yellow and oxidation off my lights, or should I just go with new. I heard from a  mechanic that the aftermarket lenses are junk and won't hold up for very long and recommended getting OEM replacements? Any truth to that? I am just getting around to doing a complete refurbish of my truck and want everything mint and new looking. Thanks for your guys help out there.  

I tested on this kit on a friend's '96 Taurus. Seemed to make quite a difference. It does take a little bit of time, but it cleared the lenses right up. It's only $16 bucks, and new headlights are several hundred.

Keep in mind this is for plastic only. Won't work on glass.  

Permatex has a similar kit that yields great results also.  

I will have to give it a try. My rear tailights are red and are oxidized pretty bad. I would replace them with the OEM as I have heard soemof the aftermarket stuff goes bad really quick. In any case, a product would be nice as over time the sun is going to do the same thing all over again. Dang this desert heat and hard water. It is the worst.  

After you've re-finished them, be sure and apply a UV inhibitor or stabilizer, otherwise, there's a good chance they'll start hazing up again pretty quick. I know the kit I got included one, but there are others out there.