Pick the proper paint.

Choosing the Right Sheen

• Flat paint is the dullest of the sheens. It's best used in low-activity areas, such as hallways, living and dining rooms, bedrooms, and on ceilings. Of all the sheen options, a flat finish is best at concealing wall imperfections.
• Eggshell (sometimes called satin or low-luster) paint has a bit more shine to it than flat. It works well in kids' rooms, where easier-to-clean walls are often wanted.
• Semigloss paint has even more shine and reflective qualities than eggshell and is great for kitchens and bathrooms where moisture and cleanup are major considerations.
• Gloss paint is just that: glossy. It has the highest shine factor, so it should be limited to truly high-traffic areas. Because it highlights imperfections more than a lower-sheen paint, it's best when used on small areas, such as cabinet doors or trims.