5 Tricks People with Perfect Smiles Swear By
Brighter teeth are high on our list of beauty must-haves. Whether you have five minutes or five days, we’re all about these tips for keeping those whites extra pearly.
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1. Bronzer > Blush
Ever wonder why your teeth look so much whiter when you have a tan? It’s the contrast that makes your teeth pop. Get the same glow all year long by nixing the blush and sweeping a taupe-toned bronzer on cheekbones, forehead, nose and chin to lift your teeth an entire shade.
2. Swap Red Wine for White
Now, we’re not suggesting you toss out all your malbec. But if whiter teeth are your goal, switching to a white wine—or even Champagne—is your best bet. Can’t give up the red? Swish with water every few sips to keep stains from setting in.
3. Whiten with a Banana Peel
The whiter the teeth, the more perfect the smile. But you don’t have to pay the big bucks for pearly whites. Rubbing a banana peel over teeth (which is high in potassium, magnesium and manganese) helps to remove stains on your enamel.
4. Pick Lipstick with Blue Undertones
Orangey lipsticks can reflect yellow onto your teeth, but blue-based hues (like berries, plums or true reds) can make your smile appear instantly brighter because they cancel out any orange or yellow tones in your teeth.
5. Ease Up on the Coffee
We know, coffee is life. But that three-cup-a-day habit isn’t doing any favors for your teeth. If you’re going to have more than one cup a day, drink it through a straw (same goes for tea) and brush your teeth right after. That way, it won’t sit on your enamel long enough to cause deep-set stains.
