# Is teeth whitening legal in the UK?

Source: https://thelocaldentist.co.uk/answers/is-teeth-whitening-legal-in-the-uk/
Updated: 2026-07-13

## Quick answer

Teeth whitening is legal in the UK only when carried out by GDC-registered dental professionals. Products containing more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide cannot be sold direct to the public. Whitening in beauty salons, spas, or kiosks without a GDC registrant is illegal — walk away from those offers.

## Key facts

- Whitening is legally the practice of dentistry in the UK
- Only GDC-registered dentists (and eligible dental professionals working under prescription) may provide it
- Gels above 0.1% hydrogen peroxide cannot be sold to the public over the counter
- Beauty-salon, spa, and kiosk whitening is illegal
- Check any provider on the GDC register at gdc-uk.org
- Cosmetic whitening is never available on the NHS
- Report illegal whitening to the GDC's illegal practice team at gdc-uk.org

Editorial content from The Local Dentist — not clinical advice.