Your Goal: Noticeably whiter teeth
Try: A kit
"Over-the-counter whitening kits and strips can be very effective when administered properly," says Mickey Bernstein, president of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, in Madison, WI. All whitening products contain peroxide, which penetrates the pores of the teeth and leaves them a few shades brighter after one to two weeks of regular application. The biggest difference is the method of delivery -- strips, trays, or paint-ons -- and each has its pros and cons. Strips are convenient, but they usually cover only your front six teeth and can slip off. Trays provide more coverage, but they can be uncomfortable to wear. Paint-ons leave no visible coating, but some can dissolve before they have a chance to work.
One we reach for: GoSMILE Advanced Formula B1 ($89; sephora.com). This paint-on can whiten you up to ten shades in a week. Plus, there's no need to rinse or brush it off afterward.