Ceilings are the hardest surface in any room to get right. Light from windows, spotlights and lamps rakes across them at a low angle, and every roller mark, patch repair and dip in the plaster shows up. That is exactly the problem Tikkurila Anti-Reflex White 2 was designed to solve. It is a deep matt, anti-reflective ceiling paint that looks flat and even from any angle, and it is one of the most popular ceiling paints with professional decorators in the UK.
What is a non-reflective ceiling paint?
Every paint reflects some light. The amount is measured as a gloss level, and most standard "matt" emulsions still bounce back enough light to show up imperfections when the light hits them side-on. A true anti-reflex paint has a much lower gloss level, so light is scattered instead of reflected. The result is a ceiling that looks soft, even and uniform, with no shiny patches, no visible roller lines and far less "flashing" – the patchy sheen you get where a ceiling has dried unevenly.
Anti-Reflex 2 is classed as deep matt, gloss grade 2 under EN 13300. That is noticeably flatter than a typical vinyl matt emulsion.
How Tikkurila makes it so flat: Matt Xtreme Technology
Tikkurila uses what it calls Matt Xtreme Technology – a special blend of titanium dioxide and fillers that breaks up the surface of the dried paint film on a microscopic level. Instead of a smooth film that acts like a mirror, you get a surface that diffuses light in every direction. That is why Anti-Reflex 2 still looks flat even on large ceilings, in bright rooms with long windows, or under rows of downlights.
Tikkurila Anti-Reflex 2 technical specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Finish | Deep matt – gloss grade 2 (EN 13300) |
| Coverage | 8–11 m² per litre, per coat |
| Dust dry | Approx. 30 minutes |
| Recoatable | After 3 hours |
| Washability | Wet scrub Class 2 (EN 13300) |
| VOC | Under 10 g/L (EU limit 30 g/L) |
| Base | Water based |
| Application | Brush, roller or airless spray |
| Colours | White, or tinted to light shades |
| Use | Interior ceilings (and walls where a dead-flat look is wanted) |
All figures are at around 20°C and 50% relative humidity. Cooler or damper conditions will slow drying.
Why decorators love it
- Hides imperfections. The flat finish disguises uneven plaster, filler patches and joints in plasterboard.
- No flashing or streaks. It dries evenly, so you do not get the shiny bands that standard emulsions leave where the roller overlaps.
- Long open time. It stays workable for longer, so you can keep a wet edge across a big ceiling and correct as you go.
- Often one coat. Over a white or off-white ceiling in good condition, one coat is often enough.
- Non-drip and low splatter. Far less paint ends up on you, the floor and the walls.
- Still washable. Despite the deep matt finish it is wet scrub Class 2, so light marks can be wiped off.
- Very low VOC. Under 10 g/L with a neutral smell, so rooms can be used again quickly.
Where to use Anti-Reflex 2
It is ideal for living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, hallways and open-plan spaces, and it is widely specified in offices, hotels, schools and healthcare buildings. It is especially worth using where:
- the ceiling has spotlights or downlights
- large windows throw light across the ceiling
- the plaster is old, uneven or has been patched
- you are painting a large area in one go and want a seamless finish
How to paint a ceiling with Anti-Reflex 2
1. Prepare the surface
Make sure the ceiling is clean, dry and sound. Fill cracks and holes, sand the filler smooth and dust off. Wash down any nicotine, grease or water stains and treat them with a stain block if needed. New plaster and plasterboard should be primed – Tikkurila Optiva Primer evens out absorbency so the topcoat dries uniformly.
2. Cut in first
Brush a band around the edges and light fittings, then roll straight away so the cut-in edge does not dry before you join it.
3. Roll in one direction
Use a good-quality medium-pile roller. Work in strips, keep a wet edge and finish each section with light strokes in the same direction – usually towards the main window.
4. Leave three hours before a second coat
If a second coat is needed, it can go on after 3 hours. Ventilate the room well while it dries.
Anti-Reflex 2 vs standard matt emulsion
| Anti-Reflex 2 | Standard matt emulsion | |
|---|---|---|
| Gloss level | Deep matt (grade 2) | Typically matt (higher reflection) |
| Hides ceiling flaws | Excellent | Fair |
| Flashing and roller marks | Very resistant | Common on large ceilings |
| Open time | Extended | Standard |
| Washability | Class 2 | Varies, often Class 3 |
Frequently asked questions
Can Tikkurila Anti-Reflex 2 be tinted?
Yes – it can be tinted to light shades. We mix it to order in store. For strong or dark colours, choose a wall paint such as Tikkurila Optiva instead.
Is Anti-Reflex 2 suitable for bathrooms and kitchens?
It is washable to Class 2 and suits most kitchens. For a bathroom ceiling with heavy condensation, ask us – a dedicated moisture-resistant paint may be a better choice.
How many coats of Anti-Reflex 2 do I need?
Over a sound white or off-white ceiling, often just one. On new plaster, after priming, or when changing colour, plan for two.
Can I use it on walls?
Yes. Some decorators use it on walls to get a very flat, chalky look. Bear in mind that in busy areas a tougher wall paint such as Optiva Matt 5 will stand up better to scuffs.
Buy Tikkurila Anti-Reflex 2 from Dawes
Dawes is your local decorating centre in West London. We mix Tikkurila Anti-Reflex 2 to order in our store at 158–160 Goldhawk Road, W12 8HJ, or you can order online for delivery anywhere in the UK. Delivery is free on orders over £50, and if you need it fast, our Priority service delivers the next working day when you order by 1pm. Trade accounts are available.
Not sure which product is right for your job? Call us on 020 8748 6711, email sales@dawespaints.co.uk or pop into the shop – we are open Monday to Friday 7am–5pm and Saturday 8am–4pm.
Browse the full Tikkurila range at Dawes.