The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) has warned consumers about buying teeth whitening products online without getting advice from a dentist first.
Under EU law, teeth whitening products should not contain more than six percent hydrogen peroxide.
The HPRA said hydrogen peroxide levels are tightly regulated by the EU to protect consumer health.
Last year the agency confiscated nearly 7,000 whitening products and ordered more than 100 websites to be closed down for trying to sell illegal products.
Hydrogen peroxide is the active bleaching ingredient used in teeth whitening kits and gels.
According to the HPRA, there is no limit on hydrogen peroxide levels in the US with concentrations of up to 15 percent found on the market and sold as cosmetics. Products with levels of up to 40 percent hydrogen peroxide are classed as acceptable for medicinal use in the US, but not in Europe.
“Millions of teeth whitening kits have been sold across the world to consumers looking to brighten their smiles. However, we have noticed an increase in the number of teeth whitening products – being sold directly to consumers online – containing hydrogen peroxide levels far above the legal EU limit,” said Lisa Byrne from the HPRA.
“High levels of hydrogen peroxide, without appropriate dental supervision, may cause chemical burns to the gums, tooth sensitivity, damage to dental restorations as well as increasing the risk of long-term oral health complications,” she warned.
The HPRA is responsible for overseeing the safety and compliance of cosmetic products in Ireland – including teeth whitening products – in line with EU law.
Under European law, teeth whitening and oral care cosmetic products can contain:
- Up to 0.1 percent hydrogen peroxide: The maximum permitted concentration of hydrogen peroxide in oral products sold directly to the consumer is 0.1 percent. These products can be sold directly to consumers and are considered safe when used as intended.
- More than 0.1 percent and up to 6 percent hydrogen peroxide: Tooth whitening products containing or releasing between 0.1 percent – 6 percent hydrogen peroxide can’t be sold directly to consumers. A registered dentist must supply them and supervise the first use.
- Above 6 percent hydrogen peroxide: These products are prohibited in the EU and must not be made available.
All teeth whitening products sold in the EU must include safety information on the labels.
The HPRA advises consulting a dentist before trying out teeth whitening.
“Only purchase products from reputable, trusted outlets supplying EU compliant products. Products sold through unknown platforms or through unofficial channels may not meet safety standards or comply with EU regulations. Teeth whitening products should not be used on under 18’s,” the Health Products Regulatory Authority said.