The finish (also called sheen) is how shiny the paint looks once it dries. It changes how a color looks, how easy the wall is to clean, and how much it shows bumps and dents. Here's the simple version.
The rule of thumb
The shinier the paint, the easier it is to clean, but the more it shows imperfections.
| Finish | Look | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Flat / Matte | No shine, soft and velvety | Ceilings, adult bedrooms, low-traffic rooms. Hides wall flaws best. |
| Eggshell | Very low, soft glow | Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms. The most popular wall finish. |
| Satin | Soft, pearl-like shine | Hallways, kids' rooms, kitchens, bathrooms. Easier to wipe clean. |
| Semi-gloss | Noticeably shiny | Trim, baseboards, doors, cabinets, bathrooms. Stands up to scrubbing and moisture. |
| High-gloss | Very shiny, almost glass-like | Front doors, cabinets, furniture, accent trim. Very durable but shows every flaw. |
Walls
For most walls, eggshell is the safe pick. It looks soft and modern and wipes clean better than flat. In busy areas like hallways, kids' rooms and kitchens, go one step up to satin.
Ceilings
Ceilings are usually painted flat. It hides seams and uneven spots, and it doesn't reflect light in a distracting way.
Trim, doors and cabinets
These get touched every day, so they need a tougher finish. Semi-gloss is the classic choice. It also makes trim stand out nicely against eggshell walls.
Bathrooms
Moisture is the main problem here. Use satin or semi-gloss, and look for paint labeled for kitchens and baths or with mildew resistance.
One more tip
Sheen names aren't exactly the same across paint brands. One brand's "satin" can be shinier than another's. If you're matching existing paint, check the brand and sheen on the old can if you still have it.
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