How to Use Cuticle Oil: Guide + Tips

Cuticle oil (or, as I like to call it, miracle oil) is an oil specially blended for your nail health.

It’s packed with vitamins (esp Vitamin E) to promote stronger nails, induce blood circulation for nail growth, and ensure well-nourished and hydrated nails.

Clearly, the benefits of cuticle oil are nothing short of impressive.

Why wouldn’t you want to use it?

If you’ve just bought some cuticle oil and aren’t really sure what to do with it, don’t worry.

It’s incredibly easy to apply cuticle oil, and the result will shock you. (Hello, strong, beautiful nails unlike ever before).

Keep reading to find out how to use cuticle oil - plus some other must-know info you won’t want to miss out on.

When Should You Apply Cuticle Oil?

The honest answer is anytime. No, really. You can apply cuticle oil whenever you want.

However, most people make it a consistent habit to apply it at least once a day before bedtime.

That way, the cuticle oil can fully absorb and keep your nails hydrated overnight, leaving you with flawless nails and skin surrounding the area in the morning.

Don’t want cuticle oil ending up all over your bed and pillowcase? Using moisturizing gloves will keep the cuticle oil in place, leading to

Do You Put Cuticle Oil on Before or After Nail Polish?

It’s best to wait until after you apply polish (or get any other manicure done) to apply cuticle oil to your nail bed.

Applying cuticle oil before your manicure can cause the polish, acrylics, etc., to slide right off, and that’s the exact opposite of your #manicuregoals.

But wait - doesn’t a nail tech use cuticle oil before a manicure? Sometimes, yes.

This is especially true if your natural nails aren’t in great shape.

If you apply cuticle oils before your manicure, it is imperative to clean the nail with nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol.

This will create a “clean slate” for nail polish to adhere to.

How to Use Cuticle Oil: Applying Cuticle Oil in Five Simple Steps

Cuticle oils are the gateway to healthier nails and fancy-looking fingers. But how exactly do you apply it?

It’s easy. Just follow these five steps.

Step 1: Push cuticles back

Using an orange stick or pusher, push your cuticles back. Do this gently as you do not want to damage your cuticles accidentally.

Is this step necessary? Not exactly.

But pushing the cuticles back will ensure that you can get below the area to nourish, strengthen, and provide a hardier extra barrier for nail root protection.

Step 2: Apply the cuticle oil onto your nails

Cuticle oils come in a wide range of applicators. Some have droppers, while others utilize a brush or handy roller.

You can purchase a pre-made cuticle oil or opt to make your own using jojoba, rice bran oil, olive oil, or Vitamin E oil.

Regardless of the application or type, you’re using, apply a small amount to each fingernail.

You only need to use a little oil, as a little goes a long way in the cuticle oil department.

Step 3: Massage cuticle oil into cuticles and surrounding skin

Use your fingers to massage the cuticle oil into your cuticles and surrounding skin.

In fact, you can use it somewhat like a lotion to moisturize your hands.

Pay extra close attention to the cuticles, though.

A deep massage on the cuticles and nail bed will increase blood flow, essential for nail growth.

It will also allow the nails to quickly absorb the cuticle oil, leading to healthy nails that are perfectly moisturized.

Step 4: Repeat steps 1-3 on the opposite hand

It’s best to do one hand at a time. That way, you can massage the nails and cuticles with the oil treatment until it is absorbed and thoroughly moisturized.

Then, move onto the other hand and repeat steps 1-3: push cuticles back, brush or use a little droplet of oil, and massage into your nails so the oil can completely absorb into the area.

Step 5: Reapply as necessary

As you can see, applying cuticle oil can be done in as little as three steps - or two if you don’t want to push back your cuticles right now.

How Often Should You Use Cuticle Oil?

You can apply cuticle oil as often as you’d like. However, the frequency will change depending on your needs.

For example, someone with highly brittle nails may prefer to apply cuticle oil to their nails up to three times per day. (Which should be cleared up in two weeks or less.)

Someone with relatively healthy nails won’t have to worry about hydration, so they may go down to one application per day.

The good news is there are no harmful side effects to using this magical oil.

So, whether you technically “need” it, you can still apply it as often as you’d like.

FAQ

Should you use cuticle oil everyday?

It is perfectly safe to use it everyday. In fact, for some people, it may be necessary to apply cuticle oil more than once per day.

The best thing to do is to evaluate the level of damage.

Do you need to hydrate your skin and nails? Do your nails need a healthy boost? Do you want faster nail growth?

Apply these oils more often to see the results you crave.

Are you supposed to wash off cuticle oil?

You do not want to wash off cuticle oil. Getting your nails and skin wet after applying cuticle oil will cause it to slide right off, eliminating any chance of it absorbing into your nails and skin.

The only time you would wash off cuticle oil is before a manicure.

Can you put cuticle oil over nail polish?

You can safely put cuticle oil over polish. In fact, it is recommended as natural nails tend to dry out after application.