I’ve always wanted a dazzling smile, but professional whitening treatments felt like a splurge I couldn’t justify. That’s when I stumbled upon Up & Up Whitening Strips at Target, and let me tell you, they’re a game-changer.
Affordable, easy to use, and effective, these strips promise to tackle years of coffee and wine stains in just 30 minutes a day. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to boost your confidence with a whiter smile, grab a box of Up & Up Whitening Strips and see the difference for yourself.
My Experience With Up & Up Whitening Strips
I’ll admit, I was skeptical when I first picked up a box of Up & Up Whitening Strips.
I’ve tried whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes before, but they never delivered the dramatic results I craved.
As a daily coffee drinker with a penchant for red wine, my teeth had picked up some stubborn stains over the years.
I wasn’t expecting miracles, but I figured I’d give these strips a shot since they were compared to Crest 3D Whitestrips Vivid White and cost a fraction of the price.
The box promised 12 treatments, with each session taking just 30 minutes. I opened it to find 24 strips—12 for my upper teeth and 12 for my lower teeth.
The strips felt thin and flexible, with a slightly tacky texture that made me hopeful they’d stick well. The first time I applied them, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was.
I brushed my teeth, dried them with a tissue, and pressed the strips onto my teeth, folding the excess over the back for a snug fit. They adhered like a dream, no slipping or sliding, which meant I could go about my evening—catching up on emails or watching a show—without worrying about them falling off.
After the first session, I noticed a subtle difference. My teeth looked a tad brighter, especially around the front where the stains were most noticeable. By day two, I was hooked. The mirror didn’t lie—my smile was visibly whiter, and I couldn’t stop grinning like a kid showing off a new toy.
I’m a smoker, so I was impressed that these strips could tackle the yellowish tinge I’d grown used to. By the end of the 12-day treatment, my teeth were noticeably whiter, not Hollywood-blinding but definitely a few shades lighter. The results gave me a confidence boost, especially when I caught myself smiling more during video calls.
The best part?
No messy gels or clunky trays to deal with—just peel, stick, and go.
The experience wasn’t perfect, though. I felt a mild tingle in my gums on a couple of days, but it wasn’t painful, and it faded quickly. The strips also left a slight residue that I rinsed off easily. Overall, using Up & Up Whitening Strips felt like a small, manageable commitment for a big payoff.
I was sold on their simplicity and the fact that they didn’t break the bank.
Pros of Up & Up Whitening Strips
- Budget-Friendly Brilliance
Let’s talk about the price first because, honestly, it’s a standout feature.
Up & Up Whitening Strips cost around $15 for 12 treatments, which is a steal compared to other brands like Crest, which can set you back $30 or more.
For someone like me, who loves a good deal but still wants quality, this was a no-brainer.
You’re getting a product that rivals pricier options without draining your wallet. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to try whitening without committing to a hefty investment.
- Easy Application for Busy Lives
I can’t stress enough how user-friendly these strips are. The EasyFit design lives up to its name. You peel the strip off its backing, press it onto your teeth, and fold it over for a secure fit. The no-slip grip means you can talk, sip water, or even multitask without worrying about the strips sliding around.
I’d often pop them on while cooking dinner or scrolling through my phone. The 30-minute treatment time flies by, and there’s no messy gel to clean up afterward. It’s a low-effort way to get results, which is ideal if your schedule is packed.
- Effective Stain Removal
These strips don’t mess around when it comes to stains. The box claims they can remove years of coffee, wine, and smoking stains, and I can vouch for that. My teeth, which had a noticeable yellow tinge from my daily latte habit, looked visibly brighter after just a few sessions.
Laboratory tests cited by the brand suggest your teeth can be 60% whiter in just one day compared to brushing with whitening toothpaste, and I’d say my results aligned with that. By the end of the treatment, my smile was noticeably fresher, giving me a confidence boost for social events.
- Enamel-Safe and Dentist-Approved
One of my biggest concerns was whether these strips would harm my teeth. Thankfully, Up & Up uses the same enamel-safe ingredient—hydrogen peroxide—that dentists use in professional treatments. The inclusion of sodium hydroxide helps neutralize the pH, reducing the risk of sensitivity.
I checked with my dentist before starting, and she gave the green light, noting that products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, like those comparable to Crest, are generally safe when used as directed. This gave me peace of mind that I wasn’t sacrificing my dental health for a whiter smile.
- Comfortable Fit
The strips are designed to conform to your teeth, and they do a solid job of it. Even with my slightly crooked front tooth, the strips molded well enough to cover most of the surface.
They didn’t feel bulky or intrusive, and I could go about my day without feeling like I had something foreign in my mouth. The no-mess dry touch technology meant I didn’t have to deal with gooey residue dripping everywhere, which made the whole process feel clean and straightforward.
Cons of Up & Up Whitening Strips
- Potential for Mild Sensitivity
While the strips are marketed as gentle, I did experience a slight tingle in my gums on a few occasions, especially around day three or four.
It wasn’t painful, but it was noticeable enough to make me pause.
For someone with sensitive teeth, this could be a bigger issue.
Studies suggest that 10-20% of users experience mild sensitivity with peroxide-based strips, and I’d say that’s accurate based on my experience.
If you’re prone to sensitivity, you might want to use a desensitizing toothpaste beforehand or opt for a milder formulation.
- Uneven Whitening for Crooked Teeth
My smile isn’t perfectly straight, and I noticed that the strips didn’t always cover every nook and cranny of my teeth. My slightly recessed front tooth didn’t get as much whitening action as the rest, leaving a subtle difference in shade.
If you have crooked or crowded teeth, you might end up with uneven results, which can be a bit frustrating if you’re aiming for a uniform smile. This is a common issue with strips in general, as they don’t mold as precisely as custom trays.
- Temporary Results
The whitening effect is impressive, but it’s not permanent. After a few months, I noticed my teeth starting to pick up stains again, especially since I didn’t cut back on coffee. The box recommends using the strips every three months or as needed, which means you’ll need to factor in repeat purchases to maintain that bright smile.
For me, this wasn’t a dealbreaker given the low cost, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a one-and-done solution.
- Slight Residue After Removal
While the no-mess claim is mostly true, I did notice a slight tacky residue on my teeth after removing the strips. It wasn’t a big deal—I just rinsed my mouth with water—but it was a minor annoyance. Some users might find this off-putting, especially if they’re used to products that leave no trace.
Brushing lightly after removal helped, but you’ll want to wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking to avoid affecting the results.
Comparison of Up & Up Whitening Strips with Other Brands
I’ve tried a few whitening strips over the years, and while Up & Up Whitening Strips won me over, I wanted to see how they stack up against other drugstore brands like Equate, Rexall, and CareOne.
Each brand has its strengths, but they also bring different experiences to the table. Here’s how Up & Up compares in a head-to-head showdown, focusing on effectiveness, ease of use, comfort, and cost.
- Up & Up Vs. Equate Whitening Strips
Equate Whitening Strips, sold at Walmart, are another budget-friendly option that caught my eye.
Like Up & Up, they use hydrogen peroxide to tackle stains, and they’re priced similarly, around $15 for a 14-day treatment kit.
I found Equate’s strips effective for surface stains from my coffee habit, lightening my teeth by a couple of shades after a week.
However, Up & Up edged out slightly with faster results—my smile looked noticeably brighter by day two, while Equate took a bit longer to show the same impact.
Equate’s strips are a tad thicker, which made them feel bulkier in my mouth, and they didn’t adhere as snugly as Up & Up’s EasyFit design. I had to reposition them a few times, which was annoying when I was trying to multitask.
Sensitivity-wise, both brands caused a mild tingle for me, but Equate’s residue was stickier and left a slightly chemical aftertaste, unlike Up & Up’s neutral finish. If you shop at Walmart and want a decent alternative, Equate gets the job done, but Up & Up’s comfort and quicker results make it my top pick.
- Up & Up Vs. Rexall Whitening Strips
Rexall Whitening Strips, available at drugstores like Rite Aid, promised a 10-day treatment for about $20, slightly pricier than Up & Up.
I gave them a whirl to see if the extra cost was worth it.
Both brands use hydrogen peroxide, and Rexall’s strips did a solid job of reducing my wine stains, though the results felt comparable to Up & Up after the full treatment.
Where Rexall fell short was application.
Their strips were less flexible, making it trickier to mold them to my slightly crooked teeth.
I noticed uneven whitening on my front tooth, similar to my experience with Up & Up, but Rexall’s strips slipped more often, forcing me to press them back into place mid-session.
Comfort was another issue—Rexall’s strips felt stiffer, and I experienced more gum irritation than with Up & Up, especially toward the end of the treatment. On the plus side, Rexall’s packaging includes a shade guide, which was handy for tracking progress, something Up & Up lacks.
Still, Up & Up’s better adhesion and lower price point gave it the edge for me. If you value a shade guide and don’t mind spending a bit more, Rexall’s a contender, but Up & Up’s ease of use wins out.
- Up & Up Vs. CareOne Whitening Strips
CareOne Whitening Strips, found at places like CVS, were the last brand I tested, priced around $18 for a 14-day kit.
They also use hydrogen peroxide and claim to remove tough stains, much like Up & Up.
In my experience, CareOne delivered decent whitening, but it took closer to 10 days to see results that Up & Up achieved in about seven.
The strips themselves were a mixed bag.
They stuck reasonably well, but I found them slightly shorter than Up & Up’s, which meant they didn’t cover my back teeth as effectively.
This led to a less uniform whitening effect, especially noticeable when I smiled wide. Comfort-wise, CareOne was gentle, with minimal sensitivity, but the strips left a noticeable residue that required more rinsing than Up & Up. I also didn’t love CareOne’s application process—the strips were harder to peel from the backing, which was frustrating when I was in a rush.
Price-wise, Up & Up is the better deal, and its no-mess dry touch technology felt cleaner overall. CareOne’s a solid choice if you’re shopping at CVS and want a gentle option, but Up & Up’s faster results, better coverage, and lower cost make it the stronger contender for me.
Tips For A Lasting White Smile
- Brush with a Whitening Toothpaste
To keep your smile sparkling after using Up & Up Whitening Strips, switch to a whitening toothpaste for daily brushing. I started using Colgate Optic White, which has a mild peroxide formula that helps maintain the brightness without being too abrasive.
Brush twice a day, and don’t skip flossing—it removes plaque that can lead to new stains. A whitening toothpaste won’t dramatically whiten your teeth on its own, but it’s a great way to prolong the effects of your strips. Just make sure it’s ADA-approved to ensure it’s safe for your enamel.
- Limit Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks
I love my morning coffee, but it’s a major culprit for tooth staining. To keep my teeth white, I’ve started using a straw for coffee and red wine to minimize contact with my teeth. Cutting back on dark-colored foods like berries, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce also helps.
If you can’t resist, rinse your mouth with water right after consuming them to wash away potential stains. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference in maintaining that bright smile over time.
- Use a Desensitizing Toothpaste for Comfort
If you experience any sensitivity during or after using the strips, a desensitizing toothpaste can be a lifesaver. I picked up Sensodyne Extra Whitening, which contains potassium nitrate to calm nerve endings in your teeth.
I used it for a week before starting the strips and continued during the treatment, which helped keep discomfort at bay. Brush gently with it twice a day, and avoid very hot or cold foods right after whitening to give your teeth a break.
- Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings
Even with whitening strips, professional cleanings are key to keeping your teeth in top shape. I visit my dentist every six months for a cleaning, which removes plaque and tartar that can dull your smile.
These visits also give your dentist a chance to check for any issues that might affect whitening, like cavities or gum disease. Think of it as a reset button for your oral health—it complements the strips and helps your results last longer.
- Touch Up Every Few Months
The whitening from Up & Up strips lasts a few months, but it’s not forever. I plan to do a touch-up treatment every three to four months to keep my smile bright, especially since I’m not giving up my coffee habit anytime soon.
You can buy another box of Up & Up strips for a quick refresh or try their maintenance strips if you want a gentler option. Just don’t overdo it—overusing whitening products can weaken enamel, so stick to the recommended schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are the Up & Up Whitening Strips Good?
I’d say yes, Up & Up Whitening Strips are a solid choice, especially if you’re looking for an affordable, effective option. They use hydrogen peroxide, the same ingredient dentists rely on, and I saw noticeable results after just a few days. They’re easy to apply, stick well, and don’t leave a mess. While they might cause mild sensitivity for some, they’re gentle enough for most users and deliver a brighter smile without breaking the bank. If you’re new to whitening or want a budget-friendly alternative to pricier brands, these are worth trying.
Which Whitening Strips Are Most Effective?
Effectiveness depends on your teeth and staining level, but in my experience, Up & Up and Crest 3D Whitestrips are among the top performers. Up & Up offers great value, whitening teeth by several shades in 12 days. Crest’s Professional Effects strips, with a slightly higher peroxide concentration, might edge out for deeper stains but cost more. Lumineux and Hismile are gentler but slower, better for sensitive teeth. For fast, noticeable results on a budget, Up & Up holds its own against the big names.
How Long Do Up & Up Whitening Strips Last?
The whitening effect from Up & Up strips lasts about three to six months, depending on your habits. My results started fading around the four-month mark because I drink coffee daily. To stretch the results, use a whitening toothpaste, limit staining foods, and do touch-up treatments every three months or as needed. The box is designed for 12 daily treatments, and each 30-minute session is easy to fit into your routine. Consistent oral hygiene and occasional touch-ups keep the brightness going strong.
Why Are My Teeth Still Yellow After Whitening Strips?
If your teeth are still yellow after using Up & Up strips, it could be due to intrinsic stains, which sit deeper in the dentin layer and are tougher to remove. Extrinsic stains from coffee or wine respond well to strips, but aging, genetics, or medications can cause deeper discoloration that strips can’t fully tackle. Uneven application, especially on crooked teeth, might also leave some areas less white. I noticed my recessed tooth didn’t whiten as much. For stubborn stains, talk to your dentist about professional treatments or veneers for a more dramatic fix.
Conclusion: Brighten Your Smile with Up & Up
After my journey with Up & Up Whitening Strips, I’m convinced they’re a must-try for anyone chasing a brighter smile without the hefty price tag. They’re easy, effective, and kind to your wallet, delivering results that rival pricier brands.
Whether you’re prepping for a big event or just want to feel more confident, these strips make whitening a breeze. Pick up a box at Target, follow the maintenance tips, and get ready to flash a smile that turns heads.