Review: We Test Dr. Apa’s Teeth Whitening Kit

Brushing and flossing three times a day is a basic beauty regime instilled in us from a young age; but it takes more than diligent scrubbing to keep your teeth bright and white. Unfortunately, despite obsessive brushing, most of the foods we consume on a daily basis stain our teeth. Enter a new oral care range founded by renowned celebrity dentist Dr. Michael Apa, which hit shelves in the Middle East earlier this month. Notably, the Apa Beauty White Duo System (US $150; AED/SAR 551) aims to give you a camera-worthy smile from the comfort of your own home. So, if you’ve ever wondered how to whiten teeth at home—this could be your solution. Read on to find out if the all-new product put a smile on my face.

WHAT IS IT?
The Apa Beauty White Duo System is an at-home, teeth-whitening kit that that includes a brightening pen and 10 strips, which should be used for 5 consecutive days in order to mimic professional teeth-whitening results.

THE TREATMENT
Although I’ve never had any issues with discoloration or surface stains (despite indulging in two cups of coffee a day), I decided to give the product a spin.

I coated my teeth with the carbamide peroxide infused gel dispensed from the portable pen before applying the white strips on my top and bottom rows. I left it on for 90 minutes before removing. I did this for four consecutive days, as I planned to save the last set of strips for an occasion where I need an extra boost of brightness.

THE VERDICT
Unlike over-the-counter Crest White Strips (which I had a dalliance with several years ago), this hydrogen peroxide-free formula did not leave my teeth feeling overly sensitive. I saw immediate brightening results just after the first use. By the fourth day, it looked like I had gotten my teeth professionally whitened at the dentist. The budge-free, brightening films stayed put (so they were a little difficult to remove) and blended seamlessly with my teeth—meaning they would be socially acceptable for the days I need to whiten-on-the-go. Other products in the range include a Lip Loofah (US $18; AED/SAR 66), Tooth Gloss (US $28; AED/SAR 103), and a Blue Lip Shine (US $25; AED/SAR 92)—a lipgloss that includes blue pigments to make teeth appear brighter.