Is sudden use of teeth whiteners and lip balm a sign of drug use?

Question

My younger brother has adopted some new habits recently. He just graduated from high school and will be going to college this fall, so the parents have been letting him stay out late and enjoy his break. He's recently been rather preoccupied with teeth whiteners, breath fresheners, lip balm, and chapstick. He also stays out most of the day and comes home early in the morning (4-6 AM).

It could be as simple as a secret first girlfriend and wanting to have "kissable" lips and fresh breath, or perhaps he wants a white smile for when he goes to college this fall. I know he hangs out with less-than-model students. Do you think I should be concerned?

Answer 1

I don't think you should be concerned. He could definitely be trying to attract women with his smile. Most women will say that a smile is what really charms them upon first impression.

I wouldn't go so far as to say drug use, maybe he's smoking cigarettes now, but if you don't smell it on his clothes I wouldn't be overly concerned. Most cigarette smokers' sense of smell is lessened greatly and they can't successfully tell whether their clothes or breath smell of cigarette smoke unless it's really strong.

Maybe you could test him? Next time you see him say, you smell like something.. cigarettes? Do your friends smoke? If he seems put on the spot or uncomfortable then maybe he's started smoking. Otherwise, honestly, let him enjoy his summer before college. Teeth whitening is fairly common nowadays and most people just really want to have that radiant, bright white smile.