I Was Against At-Home Teeth Whitening Until I Tried This Buzzy Aussie Brand (2024)

We put the Hismile PAP+ Teeth Whitening Kit to the test after receiving a complimentary sample from the brand. Keep reading for our full product review.

I have never fully believed in teeth whitening, especially the at-home variety. Much like micro-needling and extractions, I just thought teeth whitening was one of those beauty endeavors best left to professionals. That, and the fact that every single whitening product I had ever tried had left me with either sensitive teeth, eczema around my mouth, or less-than-impressive results.

Hismile is a brand that’s been in my peripherals (and feed) for years now. The Instagram ads are hard to ignore, but I remained staunchly opposed to the idea of it… that is until they released a hydrogen peroxide-free kit that claims to visibly whiten in just one session.

The Hismile PAP+ Teeth Whitening Kit is perfect on paper, but I get that Internet hype often falls short in real life. So as any dutiful beauty writer would do, I obtained a kit and got to work. Keep reading for my full review.

Hismile PAP+ Teeth Whitening Kit

Best for: Teeth with mild to moderate surface stains.

Uses: An instant teeth whitening treatment that offers up to two shades of lift in 10 minutes.

Potential Allergens: None noted

Active ingredients: Phthalimidoperoxycaproicacid (PAP)

Price: $129

About the brand: Hismile is an Australian brand founded by Nik Mirkovic and Alex Tomic. It launched with a single teeth whitening kit and has recently expanded to include the new peroxide-free PAP+ whitening kit, toothpaste, and mouthwash.

About My Teeth: Not too shabby

I’ve had a mixed history with my teeth. I was terrified of the dentist growing up, so of course, I was blessed with multiple cavities and two extractions before I turned 13. It was not a fun time, but praise be my adult teeth came in straight, and it's been mostly smooth sailing from there.

Like most twenty-somethings, I’ve experimented with teeth whitening in the past, both at home and in the chair. While I’ve had minor success (mostly in the chair), I’ve found that the entire process is either too expensive, too time-consuming, too sensitizing, or gives me eczema around my mouth.

The Ingredients: Bleaching without the free radicals

I actually called on Nik Mirkovic and Alex Tomic of Hismile to help me explain this one because the science behind the new formula is actually really interesting. In short, the active ingredient PAP (called Phthalimidoperoxycaproicacid, for those with a degree in rocket science) is a molecule that hails from the bleach family but doesn’t whiten in the same aggressive way that hydrogen peroxide does.

“Hydrogen peroxide and PAP are both categorized as oxidants, and to whiten the teeth there needs to be an oxidant present,” Mirkovic explains. “But the difference is the mechanism of action, or how it breaks down to attack stains on the surface of the tooth. To put it simply, peroxide will break down anything in its path via free radicals, whereas the PAP molecule goes through a process called epoxidation, which is much more targeted to the stain itself. This is why it has zero impact on the gums or tooth enamel, meaning the user doesn’t experience any pain or sensitivity.”

I was confused why the wonder ingredient hadn’t been used before by other brands, but both Mirkovic and Tomic explained that the issue is it’s incredibly difficult to work with, and it costs a ton. It actually took the brand, together with the head of research and development Dr. Mauro Pascolutt, two years and thousands of samples to get the percentages just right.

That’s why it’s been such a huge launch with heaps of hype—because it’s literally one of the only non-sensitizing, single-use, hydrogen peroxide-free at-home whitening kits on the market.

How to Apply: Give It 10 minutes

I Was Against At-Home Teeth Whitening Until I Tried This Buzzy Aussie Brand (1)

One of the greatest things about the Hismile PAP+ formula is how easy it is. Unlike many other whitening products on the market that require ongoing daily treatments for weeks at a time, you only need to use PAP+ once to see results. You can double up on the initial treatment (as in two pods back to back), but the brand actually suggests you only use it once a month for ongoing maintenance following the first treatment round. This is because the PAP+ molecule gets to a point where it has brightened as much as it can, so to keep applying it would be a waste.

Personally, I’ve been using it about once every three weeks, usually in line with a special occasion. You could absolutely use it more often without causing damage, but keep in mind you’ll go through the pods faster, so best to find a sweet spot that works with your budget. For daily maintenance, the brand offers a PAP+ toothpaste and mouthwash as well.

In terms of specific application, all you need to do is take a pod and squeeze it evenly into the provided mouth guard and LED mouthpiece. Then you turn it on, wait for the 10-minute LED timer to switch off, and rinse your mouth out. It couldn't be easier.

The Results: Noticeably whiter teeth

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Honestly, I found my teeth looked noticeably whiter after the very first use of HiSmile's PAP+ Teeth Whitening Kit (it comes with a shade card, which makes it easier to gauge your results). They weren’t blindingly white, but there was a noticeable two to three shades of difference. And what’s more, I experienced zero sensitivity, pain, bleeding, or irritation—quite literally a first for me.

I Was Against At-Home Teeth Whitening Until I Tried This Buzzy Aussie Brand (3)

I’ve now used four of the six pod treatments since, and I can truthfully say I’d buy more when I run out.

The Value: Pretty good

When you break down the HiSmile PAP+ Teeth Whitening Kit cost, it averages out at roughly $20 per whitening session. I personally think it’s a really good value, especially when you consider that in-chair treatments can cost thousands. Of course, it’s not entirely the same, but when you factor in ease of use, simplicity, and the fact it delivers a noticeable result in one use, I'm here for it.

If you’re a fan of coffee, tea, or red wine like me, staining is unavoidable as well, so the results that come with expensive professional whitening are short-lived anyway. Because of that, you might as well go with an at-home treatment if you find one that works for you, and I think I've finally found mine.

Similar Products: You've got options

Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit: Crest gets rave reviews online for its whitening range, and we can see why. These sensitive-friendly strips ($37) are made using hydrogen peroxide, so they’re heavy-duty. You also need to use them once a day for two weeks to see the full effects.

iSmile Teeth Whitening Kit: This top-rated Amazon pick ($48) comes in a similar format to Hismile, but uses carbamide peroxide as the whitening agent. It suggests using it for 10 minutes a day for seven days in order to see results.

Final Verdict

Despite my initial doubts, I really think the Hismile PAP+ Teeth Whitening Kit works, and what’s more, it works after one use. For me, it caused no sensitivity or irritation, noticeably brightened my teeth, and was so simple to work into my routine.

I Was Against At-Home Teeth Whitening Until I Tried This Buzzy Aussie Brand (2024)

FAQs

What are the side effects of HiSmile? ›

These effects are most commonly tooth hypersensitivity (often referred to as 'zingers'), and soft tissue (gum) irritation. Whitening at the dentist can definitely mitigate these side reactions, but not always guarantee they won't occur.

Are at home teeth whitening kits safe? ›

Over-the-counter teeth-whitening kits are safe when used as directed. If you already deal with tooth sensitivity, however, you may want to think twice before using one. “Even with over-the-counter products, it is still recommended to see your dentist prior to starting a whitening procedure.” Dr. Scheier says.

Does the HiSmile really work? ›

"If the stains on your teeth are difficult or ingrained, it's unlikely to work," he says. "But if your issue is with surface stains, such as those from coffee, tea, red wine, berries or sauces, products like HiSmile may reduce their colour, leaving you with less staining on your teeth."

What is the most effective teeth whitening method? ›

laser teeth whitening is the safest, quickest, and most effective option among the types of teeth-whitening treatments available. However, there are ultimately several ways to whiten teeth, and the most suitable option will depend on your timeline, budget, and priorities, as well as the nature of the discoloration.

Is Hismile a safe dentist? ›

The ingredients in Hismile toothpaste are carefully selected to prioritize teeth whitening while maintaining oral health. The formula contains enamel-safe ingredients, natural flavors, and whitening agents. It provides effective results without causing sensitivity or damage to the teeth and gums.

Does Hismile have bleach in it? ›

Hismile Teeth Whitening is an at-home tooth whitening system that uses sodium bicarbonate as the active ingredient rather than traditional bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide.

What whitens teeth without damaging them? ›

Brush with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide paste:

Baking soda has teeth whitening properties; that's why it's prevalent in toothpaste commercials. It helps in rubbing off stains from the tooth surface due to its mildly abrasive nature. Hydrogen peroxide, on the other hand, is a natural bleaching agent.

Is there a home teeth whitening that really works? ›

Known as the No. 1 dentist-recommended at-home teeth-whitening product, you can't go wrong with Crest 3D Whitestrips. They're formulated with the same hydrogen-peroxide whitening ingredient that dentists use, which will help enhance your smile after a recommended ten days of use.

Does Vicks VapoRub whiten teeth? ›

Vicks VapoRub is toxic to consume and should not be used for teeth whitening.

Does Kim Kardashian use Hismile? ›

Kim, 42, happens to be the latest spokesperson for the dental hygiene brand Hismile. Yesterday Hismile shared a video of Kim, founder of Skims, using their teeth whitening toothpaste on her teeth and showing the results on their business Instagram account.

Does purple toothpaste really whiten teeth? ›

Purple toothpaste uses color theory to neutralize yellow teeth by applying purple dye to the teeth, giving the illusion of a whiter smile. This effect is temporary and won't whiten teeth over time.

What whitens teeth really fast? ›

In-office whitening procedures like Zoom Advanced Power whitening can see immediate results because dentists use a 35% solution of hydrogen peroxide in conjunction with a "light source directly on the teeth to break up all the molecules that cause staining and discoloration," he explains.

What is the number 1 recommended teeth whitening? ›

The Crest Whitening Emulsion with LED Light stands out as the best overall teeth whitening product due to its ease of use, effectiveness, and comfort. Its simple, straightforward process, coupled with the ability to carry on with normal activities during treatment, makes it highly convenient and user-friendly.

Can baking soda whiten teeth? ›

Baking soda can be used with some water to remove the stains on the surface of the teeth. It can also be used with hydrogen peroxide to enhance its whitening effects. Baking soda can be used by individuals with regular toothpastes too. It is also used commercially in some teeth whitening products and toothpastes.

What are the side effects of purple toothpaste? ›

Potential Risks of Purple Toothpaste Use

Using purple toothpaste may increase your risk of experiencing side effects. Common side effects that may occur include teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, damage to tooth enamel or oral tissues, and teeth staining.

Is V34 harmful? ›

V34 is not a chemical whitening treatment and doesn't make any pertinent changes to your teeth, so it is safe to be used on dental work.

How long does it take to see results from Hismile? ›

I used this product, as directed (30 second brush once a day, not replacing my normal toothpaste routine). I had noticeable results after one use, and every day I use it, I see a whiter smile.

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