Aura paint is a unique type of paint that seems to shift colors when viewed from different angles. This iridescent effect is achieved by the paint’s formulation, which contains mica powder or tiny flakes that reflect light. Aura paint by Benjamin Moore is one of the most popular brands of aura or iridescent paint on the market. But does aura paint really come in all colors and what are some of the pros and cons of using it in your home? Here we’ll explore what aura paint is, what makes it shimmer and shift colors, what color options are available, and the benefits and considerations of using it.
What is Aura Paint?
Aura paint contains reflective mica flakes that are oriented in different directions in the paint. This unique formulation allows the paint to reflect light differently when viewed from various angles. So as you move around the room or change your viewing perspective, the paint seems to shift between different hues. This iridescent shimmering effect is what makes aura paint so distinctive.
In addition to the light-reflecting mica, aura paint is also formulated to provide good coverage and durability. It is considered a premium-quality, low-VOC interior latex paint. Aura paint contains ZIPLOCK Low-Odour Technology to limit off-gassing and provide a low-VOC painting experience. It is designed to go on smoothly, resist stains, and stand up to repeated washing and scrubbing. So aura paint offers more than just mesmerizing, iridescent color – it also provides lasting beauty and protection.
What Makes Aura Paint Shimmer?
As noted above, it is the mica flakes in aura paint that create its color-shifting iridescent effect. Mica is a natural mineral that can be ground into tiny particles. When these small mica pieces are incorporated into the paint and oriented in different directions, they reflect and refract light in complex ways.
As light hits the thousands of mica flakes in the paint from different angles, some light is absorbed while other wavelengths are reflected back to your eyes. The way the mica flakes scatter the white light that shines on them creates an iridescent shimmer, with the paint seeming to shift between various hues from different vantage points. This multi-colored shimmering effect makes aura paint unlike any other interior wall paint.
What Color Options Are Available?
Benjamin Moore offers their flagship aura paint in over 3000 different colors. This includes options ranging from soft neutral hues to bold and saturated shades.
Some of the most popular aura paint color options include:
- Gray Owl – A light silvery gray with subtle taupe undertones
- Hale Navy – A classic navy blue that picks up touches of green and purple
- October Mist – A warm peach-beige that creates a cozy, welcoming look
- Modern Mocha – A rich chocolate brown with hints of red
- Crystalline – A shimmering aqua blue with Caribbean undertones
In the aura line, Benjamin Moore offers 100 “Signature Colors” that were formulated by their color experts to have the most striking iridescent effects. But aura paint can also be mixed in any Benjamin Moore hue. So if you have a favorite color, you can likely get it in aura paint to give that shade a luminous, shimmering look.
Key Benefits of Using Aura Paint
There are several benefits that make aura paint a standout choice for interior walls:
- Mesmerizing iridescence – The color-shifting shimmer provides depth and visual interest.
- Durability – Formulated to withstand repeated washing and scrubbing.
- Coverage – Only one or two coats required to cover and hide surface imperfections.
- Washable – Allows you to easily wipe away stains and scuffs.
- Custom colors – Available in over 3000 hues to match any decor.
Beyond its appearance, aura paint’s longevity and performance set it apart. The mica flakes create eye-catching effects while the paint itself protects walls and looks freshly applied for years.
Considerations When Using Aura Paint
While aura paint has many advantages, there are also a few things to keep in mind:
- Premium price point – All of aura’s benefits come at a cost, with it being a more expensive paint.
- Reflective finish – Can showcase surface imperfections more than flat paints.
- Light-dependent look – Needs adequate lighting for best shimmer effects.
- Difficult touch-ups – The iridescence makes it hard to blend in touch-ups seamlessly.
Aura paint is an investment, though many feel it provides value for the money. Proper prep work is key to avoid uneven looks. And the finish is best suited to spaces with abundant light to bring out its shifting hues.
How Does Aura Stack Up to Other Brands?
Benjamin Moore’s aura line is arguably the top iridescent paint option. But Behr, Sherwin-Williams, and other brands now offer their own versions of light-reflective mica paints. How does aura compare to competitors?
| Paint Brand | Product Line | Price Per Gallon | Sheen Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore | Aura | $70+ | Eggshell, satin |
| Behr | i300 Interior Paint | $65+ | Flat, eggshell, semi-gloss |
| Sherwin-Williams | Celestial Paint | $60+ | Satin, semi-gloss |
As the table shows, aura is comparable though a little pricier than competitors. All three brands offer similar iridescent reflective finishes. Aura comes in fewer sheens but is known for its stellar coverage and durability. It also offers the widest range of custom color options.
Should You Use Aura Paint in Your Home?
Aura paint provides a gorgeous iridescent look, but is it right for your particular home and decor style? Here are some final tips on whether aura paint is a good choice:
- Best for contemporary, modern spaces vs traditional rooms.
- Looks stunning on accent walls, kids’ rooms, bathrooms.
- Not ideal for rooms with little natural light.
- Prep properly for smooth finish to maximize shimmer effects.
- Sample on wall before committing to be sure you like the shifting look.
- Consider a tinted primer to make the color really pop.
The mesmerizing look of aura paint offers a fun way to add interest and depth to any room. Just keep in mind the special considerations to pick the best color and prep for an eye-catching iridescent finish.
Conclusion
Aura paint contains light-reflecting mica flakes that give it an iridescent, color-shifting shimmer unlike any other interior wall paint. It comes in over 3000 Benjamin Moore hues so you can get aura paint made in your perfect color. While it has a premium price point, aura paint delivers stellar coverage and durability to justify the investment. Use it to give any space a mesmerizing look that changes from every angle. Just be sure to have adequate lighting to showcase aura paint’s unique reflective effects. With the right prep work and color choice, aura can create a stylishly shimmering statement on your walls.
