How to Heal Cuticles Overnight

Dealing with cracked cuticles? You’re not alone.

The cuticle (the half-moon shape excess skin surrounding the border of the nail) is the most sensitive area on the nail bed and is easily damaged.

It is prone to drying out, becoming cracked, and eventually painful and inflamed, especially during cold weather months, long periods in dry indoor heat, and other factors.

But that doesn’t mean you’re destined for damaged cuticles for life.

There is a top-notch way to heal cuticles overnight.

Keep reading to find out how to heal your cuticles overnight and end up with gorgeous and healthy nails.

How to Heal Cuticles Overnight

Healing cuticles overnight is a quick, three-step process using products you likely already have on hand. Here’s how to do it.

1. Start With a Warm Water Soak

The first thing you want to do is soften the nail beds. This will allow the product to penetrate the nail more readily, ensuring you can bring your cuticles back to superior health.

There are a couple of ways to do this.

• Take a hot, steamy shower.
• Relax in a nice, hot bubble bath.
• Soak your nails in a bowl of hot water (not too hot that it’s scalding!) for 10 minutes

2. Massage Cream, Oil, Ointment, or Vaseline into the Nail Bed

Now that your nails are nice and warm, it will be easy for your product to soak into the nail, improving the health of your cuticles overnight.

But which product is best? There are actually four great options to choose from.

• Cuticle cream. Cuticle cream, which can also be referred to as nail restorer, is an excellent choice. The thick substance is nutrient-dense and designed to improve nail health swiftly.
• Cuticle oil. The most typical way to restore cuticle health is to apply cuticle oil, a specifically-designed oil used in homes and nail salons.
• Oil. You don’t have to use specific cuticle oil, though. Many all-natural oils, such as coconut oil and olive oil, can work like a charm.
• Ointment. For severe cases, you may consider using an ointment, such as the one you’d use for a cut or scratch. Ointments contain healing properties that will work well for severely damaged cuticles.
• Vaseline. When all else fails, you can always rely on your trusty Vaseline. Vaseline is an amazing moisturizer and works incredibly well on cuticles.

Regardless of which treatment you use, it is essential to massage it into the nail in a circular motion for three to five minutes.

If you think you’re struggling with an infection, make sure you use an anti-fungal cream rather than any of the treatment options listed above.

Although bacteria buildup can be common on the cuticle, especially after having artificial nails, you want to get rid of any bacteria or fungus on the cuticle beforehand.

3. Wear Band-Aids or Gloves

Once you have thoroughly massaged the treatment into your dry cuticles - whether you used olive oil, nail cream, or another remedy - you will want to wrap them up.

You have two options.

The first option is to wear gloves. Any kind of gloves work fine, but specifically-designed moisturizing gloves are ideal.

If you don’t have gloves and don’t want to buy some, you can wrap your fingers with a band-aid.

The goal is to “trap” the moisture onto the cuticle area and let it penetrate overnight.

4. Keep Nails Healthy

After soaking your nails, applying treatment, and wrapping them overnight, you will be shocked with the results!

The entire nail area - especially the cuticles - should look much better the next day.

Now what?

Continue caring for your cuticles so they do not end up dried out, cracked, and painful anymore.

Here are a couple of ways to keep your cuticles in tip-top shape:

• Maintain them. Use a cuticle remover on your nails and gently push them back with a cuticle pusher. Do not try to cut or bite them off. This will cause damage!
• Keep your nails clean. Dirty nails are a big no-no. Dirt and grime can make their way below the cuticle layer, leading to infection. Keep them clean by washing your hands regularly and paying extra close attention to the nails and cuticles.
• Avoid harsh chemicals. Never use harsh chemicals! They can damage your cuticles and surrounding skin, leading to further troubles.
• Moisturize regularly. Even after your cuticles fully heal, you don’t want to stop protecting them. Apply a moisturizer to your finger daily to protect them.

How long does it take a cuticle to heal?

The cuticles typically take a week or two to heal fully, especially if the cuticles are in horribly lousy shape.

However, this overnight treatment will skyrocket them back to health. You may need to do it a few nights in a row to get the best results, though.

FAQ

Can a Damaged Cuticle Be Healed?

Yes, a damaged cuticle can be healed! You will want to use the remedies listed above for several nights in a row.

Once you are satisfied with how your nails look and feel, you can drop down to performing the above-listed treatment once or twice a week.

Is Vaseline Good for Cuticles?

Due to the hydrating properties of Vaseline, Vaseline makes an excellent option for cuticles.

All you need to do is rub a tiny bit of it onto your nails and let it work its magic.

Why Won’t My Cuticles Heal?

If you have tried this method and still struggle with bothersome cuticles that just won’t heal, you may need to visit your doctor.

You may be struggling with an underlying infection you’re unaware of.

Hormonal imbalances may also halt your cuticles from healing, which requires specialized treatment.