A bright, white smile is important for making positive first impressions and boosting self-confidence. However, many Americans are unhappy with the color of their teeth. According to a 2016 article in “Operative Dentistry,” over one-third of people in the U.S. are dissatisfied with their tooth shades. Thankfully, today more accessible and affordable at-home teeth whitening options exist for those seeking an easy fix between professional treatments.
One popular over-the-counter product is the Moon Teeth Whitening Pen, a convenient whitening pen applicator co-created with celebrity Kendall Jenner. Touted for its gentle peroxide-based formula that lifts stains quickly, this vegan pen aims to make touch-up whitening simple without a hefty price tag or hassles. Let’s dive into the details and explore what this product has to offer.
What Is Moon Whitening Pen?
The Moon Whitening Pen is an at-home cosmetic dental product designed for teeth whitening. Co-created with celebrity Kendall Jenner and manufactured in the USA, this pen applicator contains a whitening gel formula aimed at safely removing surface stains from teeth. The product retails for around $20, and over one million units have been sold since its launch.
In 2023, the Moon Whitening Pen received an award from NewBeauty magazine in the Best Teeth Whitening Pen category. The whitening formula features light-reflecting pigments for immediate teeth brightening and gentle urea peroxide for gradual, safe whitening. It has a pleasant minty flavor and is free of harsh chemicals and artificial flavors, and is made to be suitable for those with sensitive teeth.
| Ingredients | Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Urea Peroxide, Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, Carbomer, Tetrasodium EDTA, Organic Stevia Rebaudiana Extract, Mica (Violet), Titanium Dioxide, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Fragaria Ananassa (Strawberry) Fruit Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Flavor |
| Treatment duration | 14 days |
| Price | $19.99 |
- 2022 NEWBEAUTY WINNER – Best Teeth Whitening Pen. Anytime. Anywhere. You’re busy but you know how important first impressions are. So you only choose the most effective oral beauty & teeth whitening products to feel as polished as you look. With a Moon pen in your bag, your smile gets the love and attention it deserves. Take your look to a new level within just 30 seconds of that first use. You’ll see a difference immediately with lasting results in as little as two weeks.
PROs and CONs of Moon Teeth Whitening Pen
The Moon Whitening Pen has several beneficial features as an at-home teeth whitening product, but also some potential drawbacks to consider.
PROs
On the positive side, the pen applicator allows easy and convenient application directly to teeth. At around $20 retail, it is affordably priced compared to professional whitening procedures. Its whitening gel ingredients create visible brightening effects after just the first use for many customers. The whitening formula is free of harsh chemicals, ingredients like SLS, SLES, parabens, and artificial flavors. It is also vegan-friendly and cruelty-free. The peroxide concentration aims to lift stains safely even for those with some sensitivity. Gentle on enamel, it can whiten wine, coffee, and tea discoloration.
- Easy application
- Affordable price
- Effects visible after the first use
- Pleasant vanilla-mint flavor
- Free of SLS, SLES, parabens, and artificial flavors
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Gentle on teeth
- Safe for sensitive teeth
- Works on wine and coffee stains
- Tried and tested by over a million customers
- Made in the USA
CONs
However, as a peroxide-based whitener, users may experience tooth or gum sensitivity during the first few applications. Drinking heavily pigmented beverages is also not recommended during use as staining could counteract the brightening benefits. While effective for mild stains, the pen may not produce dramatic changes for severely yellowed or discolored teeth.
- Can cause tooth sensitivity, especially during the first use
- Drinking staining drinks such as coffee and tea while using this product is not advisable
- Will not whiten severe discolorations
Who Is a Candidate for Moon Whitening Pen?
The Moon Whitening Pen is designed as a teeth whitening product suitable for those with mild to moderate discoloration looking to brighten their smile. Those seeking dramatic brightening of very yellowed or stained teeth may require different products or procedures for satisfactory improvement.
Its formula is considered safe for people with sensitive teeth when applied as directed. As a vegan product free of harsh ingredients, the pen aims to whiten teeth without excessive sensitivity.
It is not recommended for use by children under the age of 12. The whitening gel is also only intended for application directly onto natural teeth, meaning it won’t be effective on crowns, veneers, or fillings. While effective in removing surface stains, its results may vary for individuals with more severe, deep-set discolorations or darker tooth shades to start.
How Does Moon Whitening Pen Work?
The Moon Whitening Pen has an easy application process. First, the protective cap is removed to expose the brush applicator tip. The user presses the button at the end of the pen repeatedly until the whitening gel is dispensed onto the built-in brush. Several clicks may be required on first use to properly prime the pen. Once gel appears on the brush, the user brushes a thin, even layer onto the tooth surfaces. The instructions then advise waiting 30 seconds with mouth open before closing and allowing the gel to whiten for 10-30 minutes before eating or drinking.
For maximum whitening effectiveness, the pen can be applied up to two times per day for two weeks. Use beyond 14 days is only recommended under the supervision of a dentist. The company recommends avoiding heavily pigmented foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, etc. during this time to maintain results.
It is important to avoid swallowing the formula or contact with the eyes. Users should also minimize contact with gums and tongues.
How Much Does Moon Whitening Pen Cost?
The Moon Whitening Pen retails for $19.99 per unit. This positions its price point comparably to other at-home teeth whitening pen products on the market. It offers a more budget-friendly option than higher priced processes like professional whitening treatments or custom-fit whitening trays paired with gel.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Like any teeth whitening product, there is a possibility of side effects occurring with use of the Moon Whitening Pen. It contains the active ingredient urea peroxide, which works to remove deep set stains but may cause temporary tooth sensitivity in some users. Overuse or extended/prolonged applications beyond the recommended guidelines can also risk potential damage to tooth enamel or irritation of the gums.
As with any cosmetic dental product, users are advised to carefully follow package directions and heed any warnings regarding application time or frequency. Consulting a dentist in advance can help identify any pre-existing sensitivity or gum issues that could be aggravated by a peroxide-based whitener. Stopping use and speaking with your dentist if problems develop can prevent more lasting effects.
Does Moon Whitening Pen Really Work? Customer Reviews
Based on multiple customer reviews, the Moon Whitening Pen appears to effectively whiten teeth for many users, but experiences vary. Positive reviews mention visible brightening after just a couple of uses. The pen applicator makes touch-up whitening simple and fast. Users note fresh stains from coffee or wine wipe off easily with reapplication.
While many observe instantly brighter teeth on application, a number find the whitening effects temporary or not as dramatic as expected. Individual experiences differ depending on starting tooth shade and diligence in the application. Criticisms include the pen clogging or dispensing inconsistently, and some dislike the taste.
In general, customer opinions on the effectiveness of the Moon Whitening Pen range widely. When it works as intended, the majority see a noticeable improvement in tooth shade after consistent use. But it may not yield dramatic brightening for those starting with severe discoloration.
Other Products
Platinum Teeth Whitening Pen
Kendall Jenner co-created the Platinum Teeth Whitening Pen which offers double the whitening power of the original Moon pen. Infused with light-reflecting pigments, the platinum pen aims to instantly brighten smiles and progressively whiten over time with continued use. It features an easy-click applicator and a refreshing winter mint flavor.
See our review of Moon Platinum Teeth Whitening Pen
- Gentle formula featuring light-reflecting pigments for an instantly brighter and whiter smile over time
- Easy application: Shake. Click. Paint on teeth.
- Refreshing Platinum Mint taste with winter mint flavor
- Premium, recyclable packaging to mirror platinum experience
- No SLS, SLES, parabens, artificial flavors and animal products. Did we mention we’re vegan 😉 We believe oral beauty care products should be carefully crafted, safe & effective.
Midnight Enamel Care Whitening Strips
Moon’s Midnight Enamel Care Whitening Strips won a 2023 SPY Grooming Award for exceptional dental care products. Using enamel-protecting and -restoring ingredients, these nocturnal whitening strips gently lift stains for up to 7 shades of brightening in 4 weeks. The mess-free strips don’t require rinsing or removal once applied before bed. Their form-fitting design stays put on teeth overnight without irritating gums. Soothing lavender and chamomile in the formula provides a calming effect.
- MIDNIGHT ENAMEL CARE WHITENING STRIPS. New, limited-edition, Midnight Enamel Care Strips whiten up to 7 shades in 4 weeks! Whitening, enamel-restoring strips dissolve while you sleep for mess-free brightening that’s gentle on all smiles. Includes 56 60mm x 10mm strips for upper or lower teeth
LED Teeth Whitening Device
Additionally, Moon offers an LED Teeth Whitening Device which promises up to 12 shades of whitening in just 5 minutes. This lightweight mouthpiece pairs with the Midnight Whitening Strips to activate the hydrogen peroxide, removing stubborn surface stains. Its cordless, water-resistant design offers comfortable whitening on the go.
See our review of the Moon Whitening Device
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Verdict
The Moon Whitening Pen offers a budget-friendly, convenient option for those seeking touch-ups between professional whitening treatments. The easy click-pen applicator allows direct spot treatment for quick brightening of surface stains on teeth. Customers report visible lightening after just initial uses.
However, as an over-the-counter peroxide whitener, the Moon Pen must be used carefully to avoid side effects. It can temporarily increase sensitivity, especially when overused. The formula also may not work well for severely discolored teeth. Results depend on stain type and proper consistent application.
For mildly yellowed teeth, the pen can provide a satisfactory boost. But dramatic whitening should not be expected from this home product. Those with sensitivities or highly pigmented staining may be better served consulting a dentist for something more powerful.
- 2022 NEWBEAUTY WINNER – Best Teeth Whitening Pen. Anytime. Anywhere. You’re busy but you know how important first impressions are. So you only choose the most effective oral beauty & teeth whitening products to feel as polished as you look. With a Moon pen in your bag, your smile gets the love and attention it deserves. Take your look to a new level within just 30 seconds of that first use. You’ll see a difference immediately with lasting results in as little as two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Moon Teeth Whitening Pen good for teeth whitening?
The Moon Whitening Pen is effective for teeth whitening, particularly for individuals with mild to moderate discoloration who wish to brighten their smile. However, for those with very yellowed or heavily stained teeth seeking more dramatic results, alternative products or procedures might be necessary for significant improvement.
Is Moon Teeth Whitening Pen safe?
Yes, the Moon Teeth Whitening Pen is considered safe for at-home teeth whitening. It is free from harsh chemicals like SLS, SLES, parabens, and artificial flavors, and is designed with a gentle formula suitable for those with sensitive teeth.
What teeth whitening pen does Kendall Jenner use?
Kendall Jenner uses the Moon Teeth Whitening Pen, a signature product she co-created with Shaun Neff for MOON Oral Beauty.
How do I use Moon Teeth Whitening Pen?
To use the Moon Teeth Whitening Pen, remove the cap and press the button at the end until the gel dispenses onto the brush. Apply a thin layer to teeth, wait 30 seconds, then leave the gel on for 10-30 minutes. Avoid eating or drinking immediately after. For best results, apply twice daily for two weeks, avoiding pigmented foods and drinks. Don’t swallow the gel or let it contact eyes, gums, or tongue. Continued use beyond two weeks should be under dentist supervision.
How often should I use the Moon Teeth Whitening Pen?
For optimal results, the Moon Teeth Whitening Pen should be used up to two times per day for a period of two weeks. Continued use beyond this duration is recommended only under the supervision of a dentist.
How long does the treatment with Moon Teeth Whitening Pen take?
Using the Moon Teeth Whitening Pen, apply the gel and allow it to work on the teeth for a duration of 10-30 minutes. This process can be repeated up to twice daily over a period of two weeks for optimal results.
What are the side effects of Moon Teeth Whitening Pen?
The Moon Teeth Whitening Pen contains urea peroxide as a whitening agent, which can cause teeth sensitivity in some users. Additionally, overusing teeth whiteners, including this pen, may potentially damage tooth enamel or gums.
Can whitening pens damage enamel?
MOON products, including whitening pens, are formulated considering FDA standards, aiming to be safe for use. However, if you have sensitive teeth or concerns about enamel damage, it’s recommended to consult your dentist before use.
Does Moon Teeth Whitening Pen work on yellow teeth?
The Moon Teeth Whitening Pen is designed to work on yellow teeth, especially for those with mild to moderate discoloration. It aims to brighten the appearance of teeth by removing surface stains. However, its effectiveness can vary depending on the severity of the yellowing and the individual’s dental condition. For those with very yellowed or severely stained teeth, additional or alternative treatments might be necessary.
Are teeth whitening strips or pens better?
Teeth whitening pens provide a convenient and cost-effective solution for brightening teeth, though their results may not be as immediate or long-lasting as traditional whitening strips. While applying strips is more time-consuming and requires extra effort, they typically deliver superior whitening outcomes compared to pens.
How Much Does Moon Whitening Pen Cost?
The Moon Whitening Pen typically retails for around $20. However, prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer or any ongoing promotions.
Sources
Cvikl, B., Lussi, A., Moritz, A., Flury, S., Enamel Surface Changes After Exposure to Bleaching Gels Containing Carbamide Peroxide or Hydrogen Peroxide; Oper Dent (2016). DOI: 10.2341/15-010-L. Available online at: https://meridian.allenpress.com/operative-dentistry/article/41/1/E39/107779/
https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/whitening
Epple, M., Meyer, F., Enax, J., A Critical Review of Modern Concepts for Teeth Whitening; Dent J (Basel). 2019. DOI: 10.3390/dj7030079. Available online at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6784469/
Naidu, A. S., Bennani, V., Brunton, J., Brunton, P., Over-the-counter tooth whitening agents: A review of the literature. Braz Dent J, 2020; DOI: 31(3):221-35.