What’s the difference between a satin and eggshell finish?

Put simply, what makes them different is their level of sheen and durability. “Satin has a higher luster, so it will be glossier. It’s also better at resisting stains and scuff marks and will be easier to clean,” says Vega. The caveat? It will require more preparation, as any imperfections are easy to spot. “Eggshell’s lower sheen is akin to that of an eggshell and will mask blemishes better,” notes Vega. “It’s a popular choice for families with small kids, because like satin, it’s washable, and despite its lower level of luster, it still reflects light.”Vega admits his favorite finish for walls is actually matte: You can barely tell the difference between it and a flat treatment when they’re right next to each other, plus it is scrubbable and masks a lot of blemishes.