The 11 Best Teeth Whitening Kits of 2023
Try not to blind anyone.
Beauty editors are blessed with access to virtually every new product and gadget that’s about to hit the market—and that includes teeth-whitening kits. And over the years we've tested a bunch, which makes us the unofficial authority on all smile-related things. Science says that the simple act of smiling has the power to positively impact your mood, lower stress levels, boost your immune system, and possibly even prolong your life. If that doesn't make you want the whitest teeth of your life, I don't know what will.
If you don't want to go the professional teeth whitening route, which can get costly, there are at-home alternatives that deliver professional-level results without your having to sacrifice your savings. And no, they don't require excessive amounts of time and effort. Peroxide, the most popular whitening ingredient, is what makes up most in-office treatments in highly-concentrated doses. However, at-home options also contain peroxide with the same whitening powers. Most of these options ask for 10 minutes or less of your time to grant you lifelong improvements. So to help you get your pearliest whites in the shortest time possible, ahead are the best teeth whiteners on the market that actually, truly work.
You’ve probably already tried the OG Crest Whitestrips, and you probably already know that, yes, they do work, but ugh—how does anyone remember to do them every single damn day? Cue: the next best thing. These white strips (which have been redesigned to really adhere to your teeth without any slipping) also come with a handheld blue light that helps the gel penetrate your enamel, making the whitening powers way more effective (fact: I noticed significantly brighter teeth after one session). Just apply the white strips for 60 mins—I know; there’s the annoying part—and then hold the light up to your teeth for a few minutes until it beeps. Peel the strips off, rinse your mouth out, and boom—you’re good.
There's a high level of effort involved here—okay, so by “high” level of effort, I really just mean “more annoying than the other methods.” But this little kit is pretty much the best at-home whitener I’ve ever tested, so you weigh the pros with the cons. Just squirt the pre-loaded syringe of gel into the silicone mouth guard, insert it the guard (that has a light attached to it) into your mouth for 30 mins, and you’re done! Hella, bright, hella fast. The only downside is the fact that you’re biting down on oozy mouth guard for 30 straight minutes. But still, if you can handle the annoyance and discomfort, this kit will take you to tooth heaven.
I'm sure you won't mind carving just 10 minutes out of your day for teeth that are professionally proven to look six shades whiter in 10 days, right? Thought so. This simple kit features a comfortable mouthpiece equipped with LED Blue Light technology, which erases stains using the power of hydrogen peroxide. Colgate claims that it can even lift stains from your teeth that are 10 years old. And if you're on the sensitive side, you'll appreciate its enamel-safe benefits.
Meet teeth whitening 2.0. This forward-thinking, Bluetooth-enabled device is what you call whitening of the future. First, you download and sync the app with the device, which allows you to track results, preview your pearly whites after future usage, and customize your experience. Then, apply the gel and pop in the mouthpiece, which uses LED lightening and heat to grand you "lit results," as the brand says.
The claim on the box is that it whitens "six shades in only three days." The claim made by this beauty editor: not really, but close. This two-step system includes a pre-treat mouth rinse and a clear whitening gel that you paint over your teeth after you finish brushing with your usual toothpaste. The result: crazy-bright teeth in under a week, with zero sensitivity.
The OG, if you will. When it comes to whitening your teeth with minimal time, effort, and $$, Crest Whitestrips get the job done. Just slip them over your teeth once a day while you watch TV—this one comes in a pleasantly minty flavor—and you'll notice whiter teeth in weeks.
A combination of blue light and teeth whitening strips à la Crest Whitestrips, this (relatively) affordable kit is an effective way to whiten your teeth several shades in as little as two weeks. Reviewers say that the strips stay on your teeth better than competitors' strips, and that teeth look noticeably brighter after just a few uses. One caveat: It's an intense formula, so you have sensitive teeth, consider using a treatment only once or twice a week to avoid that horribly tingly feeling.
This nifty LED light is smartphone-powered, so you can whiten on the go. Smile Direct already boasts a legion of fans for its teeth straighteners—so if you're in the market for straighter, whiter teeth, this is the perfect add-on product. Plus, the pen lasts for six months, so you'll be able to keep whitening until you're satisfied.
This clean and vegan teeth whitening kit was created by a husband-and-wife team who couldn't find a cruelty-free, gluten-free, non-GMO formula that whitened teeth effectively. Plus, the LED light comes in a sweet palm tree case that'll look adorable in your bathroom.
If you really, really want whiter teeth but can't bear the tooth and gum sensitivity that comes with it, these are the strips for you. Plus, the mint taste is nice—and they don't break the bank, to boot. Like the sensitive teeth-version of Crest Whitestrips.
If you're dealing with teeth staining from red wine or coffee and want a long-term fix, the SNOW kit is a treatment you can come back to over and over again. It's a little pricier than some of its competitors, but it can be used over braces and teeth aligners, and you can use the device for as little as ten minutes at a time.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Maya Allen is the former Digital Beauty Editor at MarieClaire.com where she covered makeup, skincare, haircare, wellness, you name it! She has a 15-step skincare routine, owns over 200 red lipsticks, and enjoys testing the latest and greatest in beauty. On most weekends, you can find her at her happy place, which is her makeup vanity. There, she’s usually blasting her speakers while singing along to lyrics at the top of her lungs, and making sure her highlighter is on point.
-
Even After 20 Years, We Can’t Stop Thinking About Natalie Portman’s Pink Wig in 'Closer'
Christine Blundell, the star’s hair and makeup artist on the project, reflects on the bubblegum bob and its legacy as the film celebrates its 20th anniversary.
By Sadie Bell Published
-
Zendaya's Custom Wimbledon White Is Back With a Vengeance
The motif from her 'Challengers' era returns for awards season.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
Two of ‘The Later Daters’ Found Love on the Netflix Dating Show—Are the Couples Still Together Today?
Here's what we know about the stars' love lives post-filming.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
10 Winter Hair Color Trends Fashionable Women Love This Season
The season's top hair color trends are painfully chic.
By Jamie Wilson Published
-
10 Winter Haircut Trends Stylish Women Are Wearing in 2024
It's time to get a little scissor happy.
By Jamie Wilson Published
-
Why Dyson's New Airstrait Ad Ignited a TikTok Controversy
"They said y'all can buy the product but it is not meant for you."
By Hanna Lustig Published
-
As A First-Time Marathon Runner, These Wellness Essentials Helped Enhance My Training and Recovery
From a hardworking deodorant to a soothing sauna blanket.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
What Is Sugar Waxing? Everything to Know, According to Experts
It's also less painful than some alternatives.
By Iman Balagam Published
-
13 Best Drugstore Concealers That Feel Surprisingly Luxurious
Great things *do* come with small price tags.
By Iman Balagam Published
-
Starface Founder Julie Schott Shares Her Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
The entrepreneur spoke to editor-in-chief Nikki Ogunnaike for the 'Marie Claire' podcast "Nice Talk."
By Sadie Bell Last updated
-
This Valentino Perfume Is the Best Fragrance of 2024, According to Beauty Experts
It's a layerable, floral fragrance.
By Samantha Holender Published