From washing the dishes to click-clacking on the keyboard, we use our hands for pretty much everything. Because they’re constantly exposed to the elements, handwashing, cleaning detergents, and dirt, our hands—including nails and cuticles—are prone to drying out. Cuticle oil steps in to nourish thirsty cuticles, which not only helps them look better but can improve overall nail health and our daily comfort.
Keep reading to learn what cuticle oil is, why it’s important, and how to use it. We’ve even included a few recommendations you can keep at-the-ready in your purse, bedside, or on your desk.
Cuticle oil is a mixture of oils, vitamins, and nourishing ingredients applied directly to the cuticle—AKA the thick layer skin around the base of your nails. Cuticles play a crucial role in nail health by keeping bacteria and fungus out, boosting nail moisture, and preventing nail breakage.
Cuticles tend to get dry due to exposure to handwashing, dry air, and harsh cleansing agents, so actively moisturizing them with cuticle oil is super important, explains nail artist Alena Monson.
“Daily use of cuticle oil is really the foundation to promote strong healthy nails,” she notes. “It softens the cuticles, promotes nail growth, and helps prevent breakage by improving nail elasticity and durability.”
Cuticle oil comes in a variety of formulations, but typically is made with sweet almond and/or jojoba oil, as well as vitamin E. You might also find versions with essential oils or perfumes and other vitamins or ingredients that further nourish and moisturize.
“Everyone should at least use some kind of moisturizer on their cuticles and nails. We tend to use our nails as tools throughout the day and this will give us some level of protection,” Monson says. “The beautiful thing about cuticle oil is that it was purpose made to fix cuticles and nails and is the best moisturizer for the task.”
Improves the appearance of cuticles and nails
Difference Between Cuticle Oil and Hand Lotion
So why not just use lotion and call it a day? According to Monson, “Lotions tend to be lightweight and designed to leave no greasy residue with surface level absorption. Cuticle oil, on the other hand, is almost entirely pure oil for maximum skin penetration and moisturization.”
You can technically use both together for double the hydration. In that case, you’d apply the lotion first, allow it to absorb, and then apply the cuticle oil on top.
Using cuticle oil is super simple. Simply apply a small drop of oil near the cuticle on each finger and gently massage it into the nail and cuticle with your fingertips.
Many oils are occlusive, which means they tend to sit on top of the skin and help lock in moisture versus fully absorbing. (You can find some dry oils that absorb better, like rosehip and camellia). If that’s the type you’re using, Monson says to “leave the oil on as long as possible. Washing your hands will remove oils from your skin.”
While you can use cuticle oil as often as you want, Thea Green, founder of Nails.INC says it's best to apply cuticle oil at least one or two times a day to reap the full benefits. She recommends massaging a few drops into the nail bed as a part of your daily morning and nighttime routine. To help remind you, try keeping a bottle on your nightstand to apply right before bed and when you wake up in the morning.
