The same color of paint can look dramatically different depending on the sheen it has when dry.
Sheen ranges from gloss, which will be reflective when dry, to flat, which is not reflective at all. While the names and options may vary depending on the paint company, choosing the right finish is crucial for achieving the style you want.
Some finishes provide an interesting texture or look that can enhance the room. There are no set rules for determining which finish to use when painting, but here are some common guidelines for each finish.
Gloss
This is the shiniest or glossiest finish.
It is typically not used for interior walls, but it is suited for cabinets, furniture, or accent doors. Brush strokes are likely to be visible in this paint, and it is not good at hiding imperfections because the gloss will accentuate the texture. Applying thin coats of glossy paint can help keep the surface smooth and avoid clumping. But this is a very durable paint finish and easy to clean.
Gloss can be used on accent walls for a dramatic, glassy look. Some designers will use it creatively, like in a dark color in a small space like a powder room.
Recommended for:
- Wood trim
- Cabinets
- Front doors
- Furniture
Semi-gloss
As the second-shiniest finish, semi-gloss is still fairly durable and easy to clean, but it is not quite as dramatic as gloss.
This subtle-shine paint is typically used on trim and interior doors. It is also ideal for cabinets and other furniture pieces. On walls, light will reflect on semi-gloss, but it won't be as glaring as gloss. The reflection can add depth, so using semi-gloss paint with darker colors can create a sleek and shiny finish.
Like gloss, semi-gloss does not hide imperfections or texture on the wall well. Apply thin coats to achieve a smooth finish.
Recommended for:
- Trim
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry rooms
- Closet doors
Satin
One step down from semi-gloss, satin still has a bit of reflection and shine, but it is more subtle.
This finish is very popular for interior walls, along with eggshell. Satin is known for being stain-resistant and more durable than lower-sheen paints. This is a suitable paint for high-traffic areas with high moisture or heavy wear and tear.
As the name implies, satin has a soft appearance while retaining some of its glossy look.
Recommended for:
- Kitchens
- Hallways
- Interior doors
- Cabinets
Eggshell
The sister sheen of satin, eggshell is also very popular for interior walls.
It is less reflective and shiny than satin but still durable. With a lower sheen, imperfections are better hidden than with the high-gloss option, making this a good choice for walls that are slightly worn. This soft, velvety finish is extremely popular among interior designers. If you are painting while staging to sell, eggshell or satin is best because they are the most neutral options.
Eggshell balances durability and softness well. While glossy paints stand out more, eggshell blends in.
Recommended for:
- Hallways
- Living rooms
- Dining rooms
- Bedrooms
Matte
This finish does not appear shiny in the light, but it is not completely flat.
Matte paint is ideal for concealing imperfections and creates a cozy ambiance in a room. It is more difficult to clean compared to high-shine sheens, so it is not recommended for use in hallways or other high-traffic areas.
Like gloss, matte paint can be used to provide an accent texture by being soft. Matte paint is good if you want to hide a wall’s texture. Matte paint can appear very clean and muted, with a soft, velvety texture.
Recommended for:
- Living rooms
- Dining rooms
- Bedrooms
- Home offices
- Ceilings
Flat
At the bottom of the sheen range, flat paint is nonreflective.
Flat and matte are very similar and can be used interchangeably, depending on the paint company. Flat paint is most commonly used on ceilings because it doesn't reflect light. Any glossy paint on a ceiling would reflect the lights. Typically, people do not want their ceiling to be a focal point, so the soft and dull finish accomplishes that.
Flat, like a matte finish, hides imperfections and texture well.
Recommended for:
- Ceilings
- Walls with low traffic