How do you make custom graphics shiny in illustrator or Photoshop?

I use Photoshop and Illustrator and although I am not that gifted I do know most of the tools and such.

I have tried to make surfaces in vector graphics look shiny or reflective and don't know how it's done. I can use gradient fills and can make surfaces look like they are being shown in a certain light but not that shiny/reflective look.

Is there a plug-in or filter I need to make it easier or do I just need t use the gradient mesh tool better.

Thanks