11 Types of Paint Finishes—and Where to Use Each, According to Experts (2025)

3 Ways to Identify and Match Any Paint Color, According to Experts

Flat

This finish is called "flat" because it reflects almost no surface light, resulting in zero shine. Its superpower is hiding imperfections, which is why Todd Harmon, interior designer and CEO of Aura Modern Home, calls flat finishes "the unsung heroes of wall paint." This finish can even cover hairline fractures.

However, flat finishes can be harder to clean, so they are best for ceilings and low-traffic areas, like adult bedrooms, ceilings, or formal dining rooms. "If you use anything but flat on ceilings, you will see every imperfection," says Matthew Coates, founder of Coates Design Architects + Interior.

Matte

For a refined look on walls, Eli Massar, founder of Smooth Sailing Painters, usually favors a matte finish because it hides most imperfections but is easier to clean than flat. Matte is popularly used in bedrooms, living rooms, and offices, offering a rich depth of color. It is slightly more durable than flat while still absorbing light beautifully. "It gives off a sophisticated look," Harmon adds, noting that it's perfect for a modern, moody space.

Velvet

As the name implies, velvet paint finishes convey a sense of being wrapped in luxury and ease. Similar to matte but with a slight luster, velvet is ideal for rooms that require a degree of elegance. "Velvet is a rare but stunning choice," says Harmon. "It sits between matte and satin, giving walls a rich, touchable quality." Velvet is perfect for intimate spaces, creating a sense of depth without an excess of shine. Consider velvet finishes for home libraries, parlors, or formal foyers.

Eggshell

Eggshell is the perfect finish if you want a bit of polish without too much shine. "Eggshell is the happy medium for most homeowners," says Harmon. "It has a soft, low sheen that adds a touch of elegance without drawing too much attention. Because it is lower on the reflective scale, eggshell is durable and ideal for concealing scratches and scuffs, making it a great option for hallways and family rooms. "Eggshell is our go-to for most interior walls," Coates says.

Low Luster

When you are looking for something between flat and satin, a low-luster finish can be just the thing. It gives off a subtle sheen, similar to eggshell, and is often used for exteriors or muted interiors, says Coates. "Low luster has just a whisper of a sheen, perfect for exterior siding," Harmon adds. As a low-sheen finish, its inherent tendency to show stubborn scuffs and stains should be a consideration. Your choice of finish may ultimately come down to how much maintenance you are comfortable with.

Pearl

Pearl is the perfect finish for any room that calls for understated elegance and subtle charm. "Pearl finishes are an underrated gem," says Harmon. "They have a soft glow similar to satin but with slightly more depth." He recommends using pearl finishes in entryways because they tend to reflect just enough light to add warmth without looking overly polished.

Satin

The farther you get from a flat finish, the easier the paint will be to keep clean, meaning satin is ideal for kids' rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-traffic areas. Its slightly glossy finish can add depth to a smaller room, making it feel bigger."Satin has a subtle glow, almost like a pearl," says Harmon. It can be used to create a bright, clean look in a kitchen without committing to a glossy finish. "Satin reflects just enough light to keep the space feeling fresh," he says.

Medium Luster

Like low luster, this finish lives mainly in the realm of exteriors. "Medium luster is highly reflective and durable, making it great for doors, shutters, and even fences," Harmon says. It is also perfect for durable walls, as it has more sheen than satin but is not as reflective as semi-gloss, Coates adds.

Semi-Gloss

True to its name, semi-gloss gives off a noticeable shine. It is also moisture resistant, which makes it great for humid-prone bathrooms, according to Coates. Another feature is its durability, making it fantastic for trim, doors, and cabinetry, where it resists moisture and scuffs. "If durability is a priority, semi-gloss is your best friend," says Harmon. "It cleans up effortlessly but isn't overly shiny like a full gloss."

Gloss

The glossier the finish, the bolder the statement. Both gloss and high gloss finishes create a lacquered effect that can turn any wall or furniture piece into a showstopper, says Harmon. Because gloss is shiny, durable, and easy to clean, it is often applied on furniture, cabinets, and trim. If grand is what you are looking for, gloss is gold. "But beware, every imperfection will be magnified, so surface prep is crucial," says Harmon.

High Gloss

High gloss is best for high-impact areas, like cabinets, furniture, and doors. However, it should be avoided unless you really want that shine, warns Coates. He adds that high gloss finishes shouldn't be used on ceilings and walls as they may give your space a clinical look.High gloss finishes must be applied to perfectly smooth surfaces for maximum impact. Otherwise, their potential will be wasted. For these reasons, it is best to use caution before opting for a high gloss paint finish.