If you’re dreaming of strong, healthy nails that look like you’ve just stepped out of a salon, cuticle oil might be the hero your nail care routine has been missing. This small but mighty product is a game-changer for anyone who loves the look of well-maintained nails—whether you’re a polish enthusiast or prefer to go au naturel.
What Is the Cuticle?
The cuticle is a layer of clear skin located along the bottom edge of your finger or toe, which is called the nail bed. The cuticle protects new nails from bacteria when they grow out from the nail root.
As your nail grows, it rips the underside of the skin at the base of your nail, which is called the eponychium. Between the eponychium and the nail plate is where the cuticle forms. It grips both the nail plate and eponychium, creating a tight seal to keep dirt and debris out. When you look at your nail, you might notice a half-moon shape at the base of the nail. This is called the lunula, and cuticles are directly below it. Another way to think about it is that cuticles reside at the intersection between your skin and nail. (Knight)
What Is Cuticle Oil?
Cuticle oil is a nourishing treatment designed to hydrate the delicate skin around your nails. Usually infused with vitamins (like E and B) and natural oils such as jojoba, almond, or argan, it helps to keep your cuticles soft, supple, and free of cracks or peeling.
Why Your Nails Will Thank You
- Promotes Nail Growth: Hydrated cuticles support healthy nail beds, encouraging nails to grow stronger and faster.
- Prevents Breakage: Regular use of cuticle oil fortifies your nails, reducing brittleness and breakage.
- Enhances Appearance: A quick swipe of cuticle oil can give your nails an instant polished look by smoothing and brightening the skin around them.
- Protects Against Damage: It acts as a shield against environmental factors like cold weather and over-washing, both of which can wreak havoc on your hands.
Healthline reports,
Cuticles that are exposed to excessive cold, sun, chlorine, or salty or soapy water can become chapped, cracked, and dry. In these cases of extreme dryness and damage, cuticle oil can help moisturize your cuticle and nail, restoring it to health. Applying cuticle oil can increase the circulation around your nails, stimulating nail growth. It can also help to protect your nail and cuticle against trauma. (Adcox)
How to Use It Like a Pro
Using cuticle oil is as simple as it gets. Apply a small drop to the base of each nail, gently massaging it into the cuticles and nail beds. For best results, use it twice daily—once in the morning and again before bed.
Our Pro Tip
For maximum benefits, incorporate cuticle oil into your self-care rituals. After applying it, wrap your hands in a warm towel for 5–10 minutes to help the oil penetrate deeply.
Whether you’re on a quest for flawless nails or just want to pamper your hands, cuticle oil is a non-negotiable. Trust us—your nails will look and feel better than ever.
References
Adcox, M. (2019, August 8). Cuticle oil: Benefits, how to use it, and nail growth. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/cuticle-oil
Knight, Dr. J. (2022, May 2). Cuticles: What are they, care, signs of infection: Hand & Wrist Institute. https://handandwristinstitute.com/what-are cuticles/#:~:text=Cuticles%20are%20a%20thin%20layer,is%20where%20the%20cuticle%20forms.