BEAUTY trends come and go, but the desire for whiter teeth seems to never go out of style.
From celebrities flashing shiny smiles on red carpets to influencers posing with pearly veneers, the pursuit of whiter teeth is the itch we can’t seem to scratch.
MySweetSmile Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is now the UK’s most common cosmetic procedure, with four in 10 having invested in professional whitening.
However, despite the trends, fuss and beauty standards, professional teeth whitening is something I’ve never really fancied.
Firstly, it’s expensive and dramatic results aren’t guaranteed – so I don’t fancy rolling the dice.
Couple that with the hydrogen peroxide-induced horror stories splashed across the web, and I’ve been put off for life.
However, as someone who had braces for four years and literally can’t move without a morning coffee, my smile could definitely do with a bit of brightening.
Whilst my teeth are in pretty good shape, they’ve collected their fair share of stains over the years, so I thought it was time to give whitening a go.
Terrified of the dentist chair, I reached for MySweetSmile, a dentist-approved whitening brand with thousands of glowing customer reviews worldwide.
And actually, I’ve been pretty impressed – here are all my thoughts.
MySweetSmile Dentist-Approved Teeth Whitening Powder, £17.49 (was £29.99) at Amazon
Before I jump into this review, it’s important to note that you’re not going to experience dramatic, instant results with any of these products.
We all have days where we could really do with a brighter smile (I know I do), but if you’re looking for whiter teeth for a particular occasion, it’s worth putting in the legwork a couple of weeks before the big day.
My first impression of this product was how messy it was because I opened the jar and nearly spilt the entire contents over my bathroom.
This whitening powder is very messy and has a finely milled, icing-sugar consistency that lathers into foam when applied to your teeth.
This makes application tricky but I soon discovered that wetting your toothbrush and then dunking it into the jar is your best bet.
I expected the formula to have a gritty texture and bitter taste, but it’s very pleasant and has a near-identical consistency to a foamy toothpaste.
The whitening powder is designed to work alongside your typical toothpaste, so I first brushed my teeth with trusty AquaFresh, then followed up with MySweetSmile twice a week, as advised.
After the first use, my teeth felt possibly the cleanest they’ve ever been and looked slightly brighter.
However, there was no evidence of whitening or diminishing stains.
MySweetSmile’s formula incorporates three key, enamel-safe ingredients that are clinically proven to protect enamel, fade stains and remove plaque.
What I really loved about this product is how little you need to use it
What I really loved about this product is how little you need to use it.
Despite working in beauty, I’m actually very low maintenance (AKA lazy) and find sticking to lengthy routines rather tricky.
However, I stuck to my MySweetSmile routine and was even able to take the handy jar away on holiday with me – as you can pop it into hand luggage.
I used the powder twice a week for two weeks before I started noticing results.
Whilst my teeth weren’t white-enough for the world to notice, I definitely saw an improvement in yellow stains and overall radiance.
MySweetSmile Precision Teeth Whitening Pen, £13.99 (was £19.99) at Amazon
Whilst I’ve never had much desire to invest in teeth whitening in the past, I’ve always been intrigued by whitening pens.
Whether it’s the click-click noise they make or the fact that they make teeth whitening on the bus possible, they’ve always seemed quite handy.
So, I’m delighted to confirm that MySweetSmile’s teeth whitening pen UK is, in fact, very transportable – I can’t say I’ve had the confidence to use it on the bus.
The pen dispenses a teeth-whitening gel onto the paintbrush applicator, which can then be applied to your teeth.
This offers a good level of precision, making quick work out of tackling stains and areas of discolouration.
Just like the whitening powder, it has a pleasant, minty taste and doesn’t taste overly harsh or chemically.
I found the pen very easy to use — apply the teeth-whitening gel, wait 10 minutes and then rinse away.
I’ll give you one piece of advice though… Don’t apply the teeth whitening gel when around other people, as you have to leave it in place for 10 minutes – which is not a good look.
Other than that hitch, it doesn’t leave a film or uncomfortable coating over the teeth and, unlike other whitening pens I’ve tried, is non-sticky and lightweight, meaning I barely noticed it once applied.
You can use the whitening pen up to three times a week, at any time of day.
I found myself using it a couple of times a week after drinking a particularly strong coffee or a glass of wine.
The whitening pen is enamel-safe and suitable for anyone with sensitive teeth and is powdered by PAP, a safer, less invasive alternative to hydrogen peroxide.
Whilst some shoppers have raved about experiencing instant results, it took me a little while before I noticed the real difference
Whilst some shoppers have raved about experiencing instant results, it took me a little while before I noticed the real difference.
However, after my first application, I noticed that my teeth looked whiter and brighter overall.
With continued use, the stains near the gaps in my teeth began to fade, which was an excellent result – and I’m looking forward to seeing how I progress.
MySweetSmile nHA+ Enamel Care Serum, £17.49 (was 24.99) at Amazon
Tooth sensitivity is caused by compromised enamel, and affects up to one in four of us.
Tooth decay, chipping and excessive brushing are all common culprits, and I’m definitely guilty of the latter.
So, I’m always looking for ways to strengthen and promote the health of my teeth.
I was intrigued to try this dentist-approved serum, thanks to its impressive ingredient list.
Whilst you can’t build new enamel, this serum uses nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) to help remineralise it (a process of reintroducing necessary minerals to your teeth), which helps strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
The formula also features theobromine, a natural alternative to fluoride, to promote tooth health and reduce decay.
That said, the teeth whitening serum still needs to be used alongside your typical toothpaste and can be used daily after brushing.
To use it, apply a couple of pumps to your toothbrush and brush for two minutes.
Sadly, this adds to your daily brushing time, which I think is counterintuitive because overbrushing is a common cause of sensitivity.
At first, this really put me off, as I always try to be careful with my gums by not overbrushing my teeth.
And that aside, adding extra time to your toothbrushing routine isn’t ideal if you’re in a hurry.
However, I found this serum very easy and gentle to use.
Put off by scary-sounding nano-hydroxyapatite, I initially assumed that this formula would be heavy and harsh.
But this wasn’t true in my experience. Instead, the serum lathers into a soft, fine foam and has a pleasant, subtle taste.
According to MySweetSmile, the serum can provide instant results alongside varying results with continued use.
I certainly didn’t experience results straight away, but I haven’t complained about my teeth over the past two weeks
I certainly didn’t experience results straight away, but I haven’t complained about my teeth over the past two weeks, since I began using it.
While I still can’t bite down on ice cream or slurp a steaming cuppa, with continued use, I have high hopes!
MySweetSmile was launched by UK-based dental experts and has since become the UK’s number-one whitening brand, with thousands of glowing reviews online.
The MySweetSmile Teeth Whitening Powder is dentist-approved and works by lathering into a foam to provide speedy whitening.
It’s powered by three key ingredients, that remove stains and plaque, and is enamel-safe and suitable for people with sensitive teeth.
All of the MySweetSmile products are free from hydrogen peroxide and safe to use from the comfort of your own home.
MySweetSmile’s products are easy to use and incorporate into your existing brushing routine.
The MySweetSmile whitening pen can even be used on the go and is perfect for a quick touch-up before a big event, like a wedding or job interview.
You can also use it alongside your typical brushing routine, up to three times a week.
The dentist-approved MySweetSmile Teeth Whitening Powder is one of the best teeth whitening powder options out there and can be used after brushing, twice a week.
It can be bought in a six-month supply jar, which only costs £29.99, meaning you get great bang for your buck.
Teeth whitening strips are a safe, affordable alternative to professional teeth whitening and can be used daily for up to 10 days.
MySweetSmile is considered one of the best teeth whitening strips products in the UK.
You only need to use them for up to 30 minutes a day and the strips offer whitening results after just one use.
Whitening strips are easy to use and perfect for travelling, meaning they’re great for achieving pearly whites before a big night out.
They’re much safer than professional whitening, as they are free of hydrogen peroxide, which can damage enamel and increase tooth sensitivity.
ERIN Fraundorf, DMD, MSD, owner of BOCA Orthodontic + Whitening Studio in Missouri, shared her top tips for whiter teeth.
Seek whitening treatment from a professional. It’s often stronger and will be the most effective so you don’t waste your money on a product that doesn’t work or may harm you. You also only get one set of teeth, so it’s best not to experiment on them.
Consider the cause of the staining. There are numerous causes for teeth to have a yellow or brown tint. Be sure to get evaluated and diagnosed by a professional to ensure you receive the best treatment for your stains. Not all stains are the same so they may require different treatments.
Consider your lifestyle, smile goals, and budget. When choosing a whitening treatment that is best for you, consider multiple factors when designing a custom plan. Some people like homework to whiten at home, some prefer in-office treatments only, some need to get really bright really fast — for a wedding, for example — whereas others would like a more gentle, gradual, consistent approach to whitening.
Ease into it. Start integrating teeth whitening into your routine gradually to get your teeth accustomed to it and you can closely monitor your level of sensitivity to regulate how frequently you can whiten.
Try to prevent. Make tiny changes to your lifestyle in an effort to prevent staining from penetrating your teeth. For example, sip staining beverages through a straw, swish with plain water after drinking anything staining, and pick flat water over sparkling whenever possible.
Water floss to help in between the teeth stains. Blast away stubborn stains in between your teeth with a water flosser, because toothbrush bristles can only reach so much of your tooth surface.
GANGS of London’s Lale strangled an enemy with an umbilical cord just moments after giving birth, leaving fans stunned at the gore.
The hit crime drama, which stars Joe Cole and Sope Disiru, returned last week for its third series on Sky TV and NOW.
Warning: This article contains spoilers for Gangs of London series three
Known for its grisly and violent scenes, the brand new instalment didn’t disappoint.
During the first episode, a gangster was almost incinerated after being flung onto a high-speed waltzer ride during a showdown at a fairground.
But in episode two, show legend Joe Cole made his final ever appearance in the programme’s second episode when Sean Wallace was brutally killed after an explosive chase across London after he managed to break free from prison.
The drama continued into the fifth episode, with Lale giving birth to her baby in chaotic scenes.
Fans watched as she escaped and ended up back in London, but during the process went into labour.
In true TV style, in just a couple of pushes she delivered the baby without barely batting an eyelid.
Hiding in the vents of an office block though, Lale desperately tried to evade Asif and his men.
However, when blood started dripping from her and the newborn baby began to cry, her cover was blown.
In stomach-churning scenes, Lale – who is played by Narges Rashidi – launched an attack and strangled her enemy with her umbilical cord.
She then turned her attention to the other men and beat them up, but her baby is swiped and she has to flee by herself.
Reacting to the scenes, one Gangs of London fan said: “Season 3 episode 5 what an episode. Lale is proper warrior.”
A second wrote: “Series 3 was every bit exceptional as the first two series. An absolute masterclass.”
“Gangs of London season 3 is out and I must say I didn’t know some uses of the placenta,” said a third.
Gangs of London is now streaming on Sky TV and NOW.
CONOR MCGREGOR has been told his UFC career is “OVER” – just days after visiting Donald Trump at the White House.
The Notorious made headlines earlier this month by visiting Trump in the Oval Office and doubling down on his desire to run for Prime Minister of Ireland.
And his outrageous political ambitions – coupled with his apparent lack of desire to fight – have convinced Daniel Cormier that UFC fans have seen the last of the Irishman.
During a recent episode of his podcast with Ben Askren, the former two-weight UFC champ said: “Conor is a politician, dog.
“This has to be some sort of joke, right? Oh my God, why is he at the White House? What’s going on?
“I’m ready to admit I think it’s over, bro. I think it’s over. I think I’m ready to admit he’s done, bro.”
McGregor, 36, was set to make his grand return to the octagon against Michael Chandler last June but withdrew from their Sin City showdown with a broken left pinky toe.
Cormier continued: “He made Michael Chandler wait all that time and never fought him.
“Charles Oliveira, now, openly goes, ‘I think it’s over.’ It feels like everybody is kind of coming over to the side over Conor McGregor is done.”
“Isn’t it sad it ended the way it did?”
McGregor hasn’t set foot inside the octagon since breaking his left leg in his trilogy fight with Dustin Poirier nearly FOUR YEARS ago.
Late last year, UFC CEO and President Dana White revealed the promotion was targeting a “fall” return for its poster boy.
But he appeared to perform a U-turn on the return of the Mac last month.
When asked about McGregor during the UFC Fight Night 250 post-fight press conference, White replied: “Conor?
“Um… Not sure when Conor will be back”
McGregor’s next fight, if he does indeed ever fight again, will be his first since being found civilly liable for assaulting Nikita Hand at a Dublin Hotel in December 2018.
The former two-division champion appealed the verdict returned by a jury of his peers at Dublin’s High Court last month and is hoping the introduction of new evidence will overturn the result of the civil trial.
BIG Brother is the original reality TV show and one of the most iconic series on the box.
A new season of the Celebrity edition kicks off on August 7, 2025, and narrator Marcus Bentley is returning with it.
Marcus Bentley is the voice you hear on Big Brother saying things like, “Day 13 in the Big Brother house…”
Thanks to this, he is one of the most famous voices on British television.
He has narrated every episode of Big Brother since 2000, even following it to Channel 5 after it was axed from Channel 4, and then on to its latest home on ITV.
Marcus has also narrated every series of Celebrity Big Brother and will be returning for 2025, with the show kicking off on April 7.
Many fans believed that Marcus had been axed from the reboot on ITV.
But it turned out their fears were premature, as he was still the narrator, just not the voice of the diary room, which he never was.
Marcus told his followers on X: “Listen guys I’ve had a lot of this tonight – but just to reiterate, for some who think I wasn’t on the show this evening – I am not the voice of the diary room Big Brother – never have been.
“I’m the narrator of the show and I was narrating the show when all the housemates had entered.”
Marcus has a strong Geordie accent, but many have wondered exactly where he is from. The TV star was born on October 4, 1967, in Middlesbrough.
He was then brought up in Stockton-On-Tees in County Durham. However, Marcus now lives in Canterbury in Kent.
As well as narrating Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother since their inception in the UK, Marcus has also narrated some BB spin-off shows.
He did voiceovers for Big Brother Countdown and Ultimate Big Brother, as well as narrating a documentary about Celebrity Big Brother’s Chantelle Houghton.
Although he’s most famous for his voiceover work, Marcus has a degree in acting from East 15 School and pursued acting roles before getting the Big Brother job.
It’s a dream job. I’m quite happy with my lot.
Marcus Bentley
The talented star also used his famous Geordie accent starring in adaptations of Catherine Cookson novels, set in Newcastle and County Durham. He’s also starred in adverts and had a few minor film roles.
When Marcus was a drama student, he actually lost out in an audition for the lead role in Dennis Potter’s TV series Lipstick on Your Collar to another then-unknown actor by the name of Ewan McGregor.
Still, he has no regrets about becoming a voiceover artist. Speaking to The Guardian, he said: “It’s a dream job. Don’t get me wrong, I’d loved to have had that Ewan McGregor career too, but I’m quite happy with my lot.”
Over the years some of the stars who have entered the famous house have earned big pay packets:
Ray J (2017) – £800K to £1M
David Guest (2016) – £600K
Speidi aka Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt (2017) – £570K
Jedward (2017) – £500K
Katie Price (2015) – £400K
Gemma Collins (2016) – £100K
KERRY Katona has blamed Sam Thompson’s split from Zara Mcdermott and Jacqueline Jossa’s marriage breakdown on the I”m a Celebrity ‘winners’ curse’.
The former Atomic Kitten singer, 44, also pointed out most recent I’m a Celeb champ Danny Jones‘ marriage troubles after his drunken kiss with Maura Higgins.
Kerry said: “I’ve read that Zara McDermott is reportedly dating Louis Tomlinson and I think if she is happy then fair enough.
“They do say the best way to get over someone is to get under someone else!
“It was always tough for Sam Thompson and Zara because their relationship was so public – people are very invested.”
Writing in her column for new! magazine, Kerry continued: “I do think there is some sort of I’m a Celebrity winners’ curse.
“Sam won the show in 2023 and is now single, Jacqueline Jossa won in 2019 and has just split up with Dan Osborne, I won in 2004 and Brian McFadden and I separated soon afterwards.
“And Danny Jones won before his Maura Higgins kissing drama.”
The Sun exclusively revealed last week that Zara and Louis have enjoyed a string of romantic dates, as they were snapped at dinner together.
And we also told how Dan and Jacqueline are over, with a source revealing: “Dan has fallen out of love with Jacqueline and there’s no way back for him.
“Jacqueline is absolutely devastated and will do anything to make it work.
“She’s putting on a brave face for social media but behind closed doors it’s a different story.
“Dan has told friends it’s over for him and while he won’t be rushing into a divorce, it’s not a question of if they will, but when.”
The Sun On Sunday first revealed how Jacqueline and Dan had ended their marriage.
Dan moved into a home near Southend-on-Sea which he bought without her knowledge before the split.
She is now living in another property in Essex.
