This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
If you've always wanted a mega-watt smile, but can't afford to drop the dough that goes hand-in-hand with that, we've come up with a temporary (and more budget-friendly) solution: a well-chosen lipstick. Believe it or not, certain lip colors and formulations can actually make your teeth look whiter. Click through the slideshow to find out which ones will have you on your way to whiter-looking teeth in a flash.
Yes, we know all about the 90s revival in beauty, but brown lipstick should not be a part of it. Brown undertones bring out the brown tones in your mouth (sexy, right?) which do not make for an attractive smile. Instead of brown, opt for a true berry shade, like Tom Ford Plum Lush. The raspberry shade has a cool (read: whitening) undertone, perfect for faking a professionally-brightened smile.
Rule of thumb? Glossy formulas typically triumph over mattes in terms of making teeth look white. If you're going for a disco ball smile, just opt for a formula that errs on the sheerer side and comes in a glossy finish. NARS Audrey has just the right amount of sheen and plenty of pigment for a poppin' pout that makes your pearly whites look their brightest.
Consider it a bit of lipstick science: in order to counteract dull, yellow teeth, go for the opposite hue on a color wheel (namely, blue). Lipstick Queen's Hello Sailor takes the Avatar-esque shade and makes it wearable by creating a sheer, glossy formula that's guaranteed to flatter any skin shade (and not make your boo think you're an alien).
If you'll only wear pink lipstick, go for one with blue undertones (as opposed to peaches, corals, and warmer tones) because again, that blue can work wonders on your smile. Chanel Elise is the perfect pop of color without being overpowering. The slight sheen will give your lips a light gloss, too.
There's a reason MAC's Ruby Woo is such a cult favorite. The blue-based undertone in this red lipstick is ultra-flattering on just about any skin tone and works wonders on your smile. And honestly, anything that's good enough for Rihanna is certainly more than good enough for us.
No matter what lipstick you opt for, a blue gloss will make any lip color more smile-friendly. I recommend pairing Giorgio Armani's Flash Lip Lacquer with your favorite red lipstick for an instant mega-watt grin.
