What Does Cuticle Oil Do?

Whether you went to a salon for a professional manicure or decided to save time and money by performing an at-home manicure, you likely heard the key term: cuticle oil.

Now, you might be wondering what this seemingly “magical” ingredient lining every salon and nail shop is all about.

Well, if you’re curious about cuticle oil and why it’s an absolute must for nail care and health, we’ve got you covered.

Today, we’re diving deep into the world of cuticle oil and why it should find its way into your bathroom drawer immediately.

What Is Cuticle Oil?

The cuticle is a thin layer of skin that borders the nail bed. And no, it’s not just an annoying area of skin that stands in the way of you and a perfect manicure.

It’s actually an essential piece of the “nail puzzle.” The cuticle (and surrounding skin cells) works to stave off nail infections and prevent bacteria from getting under the skin, leading to further problems.

That said, the cuticle is vital and should be treated with respect.

Unfortunately, the cuticle is incredibly delicate and is in constant contact with the elements. It can become dried-out, cracked, chapped, and otherwise unhealthy.

Enter: cuticle oil. These oils are an absolute must for keeping this imperative area strong and robust.

They are designed with moisturizing and strengthening ingredients to keep nails healthy.

For example, most are constructed with vegetable oils (jojoba oil, olive oil, almond oil, etc.), Vitamin E, and citric acid.

Benefits of Cuticle Oil

Applying this product to your fingertips is essential and comes with a slew of advantages.

Keeps Nails Healthy

When the cuticles are healthy, they can function as they are supposed to by fending off potential infections, bacteria, and fungi.

Not only that but most products are induced with antimicrobial and antifungal properties to protect the nail.

That said, healthy cuticles are the gateway to an overall healthy nail matrix, and one of the easiest ways to achieve healthy nails is with oil treatments.

Improves Hydration

Many things can cause dried-out nails. For example, two significant factors are going to the salon for acrylic nails or removing nail polish with an acetone nail polish remover.

If you’re struggling with dry nails (and surrounding dry skin), cuticle oil can help. Cuticle oils are known for their extensive hydrating properties, thanks to the oil and Vitamin E.

Massage this moisturizing product to your cuticles and surrounding skin on your fingers for the best results.

Encourages Strong Nails and Nail Growth

Thanks to the chemical makeup of cuticle oil, cuticle oil promotes blood circulation while depositing much-needed nutrients to the nails.

In turn, you’re left with thicker and stronger nails that aren’t prone to breakage, dryness, or pesky hangnails. You will also notice improved nail growth over time, too.

Heals Damage

Cuticles (and surrounding skin) can become damaged rather quickly. The antioxidants found in cuticle-specific oil can help to regenerate cell growth, especially around the cuticles, reversing any damage that may be present in the area.

And don’t worry - these oils are gentle, safe, and practical, so even those with sensitive skin can enjoy the benefits without fear of pain, irritation, or agitation.

Protects Nail Polish

Whether you’ve just got professional acrylic nails done or created extravagant nail art from home, the last thing you want is ruined nails only a few hours or days after application.

Well, it’s cuticle oil to the rescue once more. When you use it on top of the polish (of any kind), it extends the longevity and protects it against chipping, scratching, and other nuisances.

As a bonus, it also creates a shinier appearance - and who doesn’t love bright, shiny, look-at-me manicures?

Is Cuticle Oil Necessary?

While it is highly recommended for nail care, it’s not technically “necessary.”

If you can’t find cuticle oil, don’t have the funds, or simply don’t want to wait for it to ship to your doorstep, you can always use another oil to keep cuticles healthy.

While most oils will work just fine, the favorite is undeniably olive oil. Olive oil is rich in Vitamin E, the main ingredient in cuticle-specific oil that provides immense hydration, strength, and nail growth.

Olive oil is typically used conjointly with tea tree oil due to its antifungal properties.

Whether you’re using cuticle oil or an at-home oil blend, all you need to do is dip a cotton ball into the mix and swipe it across your fingertips.

Does it work like magic overnight? Not quite. You will need to regularly use cuticle oil or an at-home blend to see the best results, especially if your cuticles are in bad shape.

Does Cuticle Oil Make Your Nails Stronger?

Yes, using cuticle oil makes your nails stronger. That is one of the main reasons individuals decide to apply cuticle oil, especially before and after a manicure.

How does using cuticle oil result in stronger nails? It all comes down to the chemical makeup of the product.

The vitamins and minerals nourish, hydrate, soften, and strengthen the nails, leaving you with a set of well-maintained tips and surrounding skin.

Cuticle Oil FAQ

What Does Cuticle Oil Do To Your Nails?

When applying cuticle oil to your nails, you give your nails a blast of vitamins and minerals that work to hydrate, nourish, soften, and protect the nail bed.

You can also brush a bit of the oil on the surrounding skin to enjoy the same benefits.

Does Cuticle Oil Make Nails Lift?

Many people apply cuticle oil before manicures, which can lead to lifting. It is imperative to ensure that the nails are 100% dry before using nail polish, gel, acrylic, etc.

How often should you use cuticle oil?

It really depends on your level of damage. Once a day should be fine for most individuals. Severely damaged cuticles can benefit from oil being administered a few times per day (up to three times).