We all want whiter teeth, the kind that are toothpaste commercial–worthy, but in-office treatments can get expensive, and affordable drugstore-variety white strips aren't always at the ready when we need them.
So how can you give the illusion of sparkling pearly whites in a jiffy? Fortunately, there are some trusted makeup tips from experts in-the-know who've had to use just such trickery on their clients.
Sit back, relax, and smile … because your teeth are about to get the quick-fix brightening makeover they need.
Image via iStock.com/stock_colors
Seeing Red
"Blue-based lipstick creates the instant illusion of whiter teeth," says Crystal Carmen, professional makeup artist and cosmetic formulator. "The color theory behind it is neat. Blue and orange/yellow sit across from each other on the color wheel. Blue tones tend to cancel out orange and yellow tones when close together. What does that mean? The right lipstick shade can make your not-so-whites look oh-so-bright instantly."
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Give It a Try: Blue-Red Lip Color
For a stunning blue-red that will whiten the appearance of your teeth, try Milani Cosmetics Amore Matte Lip Creme in Devotion ($8.99, milanicosmetics.com). This product stays put all day and offers up that perfectly matte pout that is trending across social media.
Wash Up
Now here's a tip we had never thought of before. Celebrity makeup artist Ramy Gafni, author of How to Fake Real Beauty, suggests using a medicine cabinet staple to make your teeth appear brighter. "Rinse with a red mouthwash (think cinammon flavor) to enhance the pink in your gums and make teeth appear brighter."
Give It a Try: Red Mouthwash
To perk up the pink of your gums, try ACT Alcohol Free Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash in Cinnamon ($4.99, drugstore.com).
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Shine On
Glam expert Anthony Pazos, formerly of WE TV's L.A. Hair, suggests looking for glosses with shiny reflective properties like a silver shine. "When photographed in lip gloss with silver shine or pop, it tends to translate almost white on camera, helping teeth look whiter," he explains. "And if you're looking for a natural teeth whitening remedy, try lemon juice and baking soda. Mixed together they act like a powerful teeth-whitening kit."
Give It a Try: Lip Gloss
If you haven't already checked out hot new collection The Estee Edit by Estee Lauder, head to your nearest Sephora right now. Their Flash Photo Lip Gloss ($20, sephora.com) is perfect for brightening your smile in real life and your next selfie.
Warm It Up
Carmen also suggests warming up the skin to make your teeth really pop. "Using a bronzer to create the illusion of a summer tan will also warm up the skin and contrast against your lighter teeth," she advises.
Give It a Try: Bronzer
To get that sun-kissed glow, try Pink Stiletto Cosmetics Pretty Powder Bronzed Highlighter ($18.50, pinkstilettocosmetics.com) on the high points of the face (think nose, forehead, cheeks and chin).
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Conceal It
"Softly concealing the area around your lips will help your lip shade standout more, creating a more prominent looking point," advises Carmen. "This will help create the illusion of light and make your pearly whites look whiter."
Give It a Try: Concealer
For an affordable concealer that works like a dream, try Sonia Kashuk All Covered Up Concealer ($9.99, target.com) paired with Sonia Kashuk Satin Luxe Lip Color SPF 16 in Very Berry ($9.99, target.com) for a bold pop of color.
Harness a Highlight
We know what you're thinking. You're looking at this image and thinking, "Contouring for whiter teeth? Hard pass!" Don't worry, you don't have to get all Kardashian to help brighten up your smile. "Add highlighter onto the cupid’s bow of lips and below the center of your lower lip to reflect light and brighten your smile," says Gafni.
Give It a Try: Highlighter
For the perfect highlight for your pout, try Ramy Pure Juice Highlighter ($28, ramy.com). The colorless, water-proof cream can be applied with a brush or the tip of your finger.
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