Top-Recommended Whitening Strips, Endorsed by Our Editors
Over the years, it has become evident that actors in films and television shows boast impressively white teeth. Yet, achieving this radiant smile can be complicated and costly. Professional whitening treatments can be prohibitively expensive, and over-the-counter options like trays often leave a slimy feeling or do not deliver results. Enter whitening strips: An affordable, easy-to-use alternative that fits effortlessly into everyday routines.
After testing a variety of popular adhesive and dissolvable whitening strip options over a two-week period, the Crest 3D White Luxe Whitestrip Teeth Whitening Kit emerged as the undisputed favorite. Although the results may not mirror the dramatic transformations offered by some treatments, these strips provide subtle, natural-looking improvements to one's tooth color.
Comfort levels with whitening strips tend to vary based on tooth sensitivity, but testers found the Crest 3D White Luxe Whitestrips to be remarkably comfortable for those sensitive teeth. During wear, they offer a secure fit and do not cause discomfort, even after the full 30-minute application period. The only instance of discomfort occurred immediately following a dentist appointment, when gums were already tender.
Applying the strips is simple: Just peel each one off its plastic liner and stick it onto the teeth. Unlike some strips tested, these fit comfortably over all visible teeth without causing any tugging or slipping. The only downside is that they can be prone to creasing, so careful application is necessary.
While the kit promises "eight levels whiter," the results were more subtle. After two weeks of daily use, teeth appeared significantly less stained, but the changes were more noticeable up close. These strips are not designed to produce dramatic yellow-to-white transformations overnight, but they are effective for maintaining or enhancing a current smile for those who regularly consume coffee, red wine, tea, or other staining beverages.
Type: Strips | Active Ingredient: Hydrogen peroxide | Wear Time: 30 min. | Count: 28 strips
Meanwhile, Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips have garnered attention with their claim of delivering results after just one application. Testers, including associate editorial director Taylor Rock, confirmed these strips' effectiveness, with noticeable results after the initial use. They come in a variety of flavors, including grape, strawberry, peach, blue raspberry, wintergreen, and peppermint, and cost $20.
Looking at comfort, some users may require time to adapt to the thicker, malleable material. Despite this adjustment period, the strips fit comfortably around both the top and bottom teeth, and their effect on sensitive teeth is gentle. They do not foam excessively, nor do they leave a slimy residue on the teeth upon removal. Simply swish and spit to eliminate any remaining ingredients.
Applying the strips is straightforward, with each one peeling off a foil liner and adhering easily to the teeth. They remain firmly in place, and users may have to exert some effort to remove them following the 30-minute wear period. Overall, the application process is intuitive and uncomplicated.
While the results may not be as immediately dramatic as some other whitening treatments, Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips deliver significant improvements in just half an hour. For individuals seeking instant results before an event or wanting a quick touch-up, these strips offer an ideal solution.
Type: Strips | Active Ingredient: Hydrogen peroxide | Count: 28 strips
Beyond the Crest 3D White Luxe Whitestrips and Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips, several other whitening kits were tested and well-received. These four standouts include:
- Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips
- Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects Strips
- Moon Teeth Whitening Kit
- Crest 3D Whitestrips 1 Hour Express + LED Light
For a comprehensive review of the testing process, ingredients, application time, and advice on shopping for teeth whitening strips like a pro, refer to the full article.
Jamie Fischer, a writer for Real Simple with almost two years of shopping content experience, found the Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects to be her preferred option for an extra confidence boost before going out at night. She appreciates their ease of application and compatibility with her regular makeup routine.
- Jamie Fischer, a writer for Real Simple, prefers the Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects as her go-to for a confidence boost before nighttime events, due to their easy application and compatibility with her makeup routine.
- Expanding the range of options, Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips, Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects, Moon Teeth Whitening Kit, and Crest 3D Whitestrips 1 Hour Express + LED Light were also tested and well-received.
- In the realm of home-and-garden shopping, beauty and lifestyle enthusiasts can find a wealth of whitening strips that cater to various needs, with selections like the Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects offering a quick, affordable solution for achieving a brighter smile.
