If you've ever shopped for paint, you’ve probably been overwhelmed by all the options for paint finishes. You’ll find flat, matte, velvet, satin, semi-gloss...and everything in between. It’s enough to leave anyone confused! At Clare, we believe in keeping things simple, so we only offer the very best two paint finishes for interiors: Perfect Eggshell, which is ideal for walls and other interior surfaces, and Subtle Semi-Gloss, the best finish for trims, doors, moldings and other high-touch surfaces. 

To make things even simpler, we refer to these as our Wall Paint and Trim Paint, and they’re the only two paint finishes you ever really need to achieve maximum beauty and functionality, no matter what room or surface you’re painting. 

Understanding Interior Paint Finishes And Sheen Levels 

Different Interior Paint Finishes And How They Compare 

Paint finishes range from completely flat (no shine) to high-gloss (very shiny). In between, you’ll find options like eggshell, satin and semi-gloss, all with varying levels of sheen and durability. 

Here’s the simplified version: 

Lower sheen (flat, matte, eggshell): Softer look, hides imperfections better  

Higher sheen (satin, semi-gloss, gloss): More reflective, more durable, easier to clean  

Instead of offering every option under the sun, we’ve focused on the two finishes that actually perform best in real homes. 

How Paint Sheen Levels Affect Durability And Look 

Sheen isn’t just about appearance: it impacts how your paint lives day-to-day.

Lower sheen = more forgiving. Great for hiding wall imperfections and creating a soft, cozy feel.  

Higher sheen = more durable. Better for high-touch areas, but it will highlight bumps, cracks and texture.  

The goal? Use each finish where it works hardest and looks best. 

The Best Paint Finish for Walls 

If interior designers had a favorite finish, eggshell would win every time. 

Our Perfect Eggshell Wall Paint has a soft, barely-there sheen (think: the surface of an actual eggshell) that delivers rich color without too much shine. It’s durable, easy to clean and even mildew-resistant, so it works beautifully in everything from living rooms to bathrooms. 

Even though we call it “Wall Paint,” it’s incredibly versatile and can be used on any surface where you want a smooth, refined look. 

Designer tip: Don’t paint everything in the same finish. Pairing eggshell walls with a slightly shinier trim adds contrast, depth and that polished, designer-approved feel. 

The Best Paint Finish for Trim

Trim, doors and cabinets take a lot of daily wear, think shoes, hands, bags and everything in between. That’s where a more durable finish comes in. 

Our Subtle Semi-Gloss Trim Paint is designed for these high-touch surfaces. It has a gentle sheen (not overly shiny) that’s tough enough to handle scuffs, smudges and frequent cleaning. 

A traditional semi-gloss can feel overly reflective, but ours sits in a more balanced range, giving you durability and a more elevated, understated look. 

One thing to keep in mind: higher sheen highlights imperfections. So while it’s perfect for trim, it’s not always ideal for walls with texture or unevenness. 

Ceiling Paint 

Ceilings might not get all the attention, but they make a big impact. 

A flat white finish is the way to go here. Why? It reduces glare from overhead lighting and helps bounce natural light around the room making everything feel brighter and more open. 

Our Ceiling Paint is designed specifically for this job, with a true flat finish, great coverage and minimal splatter (because no one wants paint rain). 

What Paint Finish Should I Choose? 

Choosing Paint Sheen Based On Use And Traffic 

If you’re still unsure, here’s the easiest way to decide: