A-Z of Cosmetic Ingredients and Terms
Toothwhitening products will either whiten teeth through abrasion, where tiny, rough particles help to rub off discoloration, or by using a bleaching agent such as hydrogen peroxide.
Where hydrogen peroxide, or substances that release hydrogen peroxide, are used as a bleaching agent, the level is restricted to 0.1% under European cosmetics legislation. Higher levels of hydrogen peroxide may be used in toothwhitening products supervised by dental professionals.
In the past some toothwhitening products have appeared on the UK market, available direct to consumers, containing higher quantities of peroxide. These are illegal so it is advisable to purchase your product from a reputable retailer or your dentist.
Read more in the Oral Care Products section.
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