What it is & what it does
Oxidizing agent used in tooth-whitening products to break down colored compounds on teeth.
WHAT IT IS: Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizing agent used in some tooth-whitening products rather than as a routine leave-on skincare active.
HOW IT WORKS / WHAT RESEARCH SUPPORTS: In oral applications it helps break down colored molecules responsible for some dental staining. Effect and safety depend on concentration, exposure time and the intended dental formulation. A tooth-whitening ingredient should not be used as a home skin lightener or applied directly to skin because of its irritant potential.
IN A REAL SKINCARE ROUTINE: This page concerns its function in designated oral-care products, not a universal whitening treatment. The visible effect of an ingredient is not necessarily the same as the performance of a finished product.
HOW IT WORKS / WHAT RESEARCH SUPPORTS: In oral applications it helps break down colored molecules responsible for some dental staining. Effect and safety depend on concentration, exposure time and the intended dental formulation. A tooth-whitening ingredient should not be used as a home skin lightener or applied directly to skin because of its irritant potential.
IN A REAL SKINCARE ROUTINE: This page concerns its function in designated oral-care products, not a universal whitening treatment. The visible effect of an ingredient is not necessarily the same as the performance of a finished product.