What Is Cuticle Oil?
Cuticle oil is a moisturizing product for the nails and cuticles, the small strip of skin at the base of the nail. It is designed to be applied to the nail and cuticle during a manicure, or as needed to combat dryness. Cuticle oil is designed to keep the cuticles soft and healthy, preventing ripping or tearing that can cause pain, damage to the nail, or even infection.
Cuticle oil is a fairly simple product, usually made with moisturizing oils such as avocado oil or almond oil, among others. It also typically includes vitamins, particularly vitamin E. Shea butter or other moisturizing ingredients may be included as well. It is relatively expensive, compared to other moisturizing products, but it usually lasts a long time.
Most people use cuticle oil as the final step in a manicure. This is because the cuticles may have been pushed back or clipped with cuticle clippers during the manicure, and the manicurist will want to prevent tearing. It is typically not recommended to clip the cuticles, however; instead, soften them in warm water for a few minutes, and gently push them back with an orange stick. After applying a nail polish top coat and allowing it to dry, a small amount of oil may be applied on the cuticle and over the entire nail. Cuticle oil may be used on the toenails as well.
Cuticle oil may be applied with a brush, often included in the bottle with purchase. It may also be applied with a small sponge or cotton ball. In addition, this type of nail treatment is now available in a "pen" form, allowing the oil to be applied with greater precision. Keep in mind that because it is virtually pure oil, applying cuticle oil can be messy. A small amount goes a long way on each nail, and it is best to allow it to dry for a few minutes before touching anything, because it can be quite greasy.
Keep in mind it is not necessary to manicure the nails to apply this type of conditioning oil. It may be applied as needed during the day or before bed. Some experts recommend trying to manage hangnails and dry nails with moisturizing creams, however, before relying too much on regular applications of oil. Typically, only those with very dry nails, prone to hangnails, splitting, or cracking, will need to use cuticle oil on a regular or daily basis. It may be found in the nail care section of most stores, with other types of nail polish and nail treatments.
Written by B. Miller
