There are many different ways to take care of your nails—and many reasons to do so. Proper nail care can ensure your nails grow healthy and strong, help to prevent inflammation and infections, and give you smooth, beautiful nails every time.
When it comes to your nail health, having the right tools and resources on hand can make all the difference, and there’s one product you just won’t want to skip: cuticle oil.
Here at Nailboo, we’re dedicated to providing you with the tools and resources you need to achieve that perfect manicure every time, from the marble style to the ombre pattern, to holiday-themed decals.
That’s why we’re sharing our easy-to-use nail dip kits that provide salon-quality manicures without the salon quality costs, and it’s why we’re sharing tips and tricks for finding those perfect products and using them right. Here’s what you’ll want to know about applying cuticle oil to your nails.
What Is Cuticle Oil?
You may have heard of cuticle oil on your nail care journey, or may even have some in your manicure kit, but what actually is cuticle oil and how can it help to rejuvenate and support the health of your nails?
Essentially, cuticle oil is a product used to rehydrate and moisturize your cuticles. When we apply and remove nails, or even when we use our hands and fingers throughout the day, we’re exposed to a lot of irritants and environmental factors that can dry out the nails and nail beds and leave them prone to breaking or damage. Cuticle oil can help to prevent that and leave your nails feeling smooth and strong.
Benefits of Using Cuticle Oil
Adding cuticle oil to your manicure routine might seem like just another thing to remember, but the truth is that there are many benefits to using cuticle oil regularly. Here are just a few.
It Rehydrates the Nail
There are so many reasons our nails and cuticles can become dehydrated or dry throughout the day. Exposure to harsh soaps and other chemicals can cause drying, or even excess time spent in the sun can lead to flaking and itchiness. One of the most important reasons to add cuticle oil to your routine is that it can help to rehydrate the skin and provide you relief and protection from exposure to irritants.
It Reduces Damage
It also helps to prevent future damage. When our nails are too dry, they can become brittle, which makes them far more prone to breaking and cracking. Keeping your nails properly hydrated will help to protect them in the future and reduce their risk of damage.
It’s Low Impact and Natural
One of the reasons why cuticle oil is such an excellent tool for anyone on a nail care journey is that it’s low impact, but highly effective. Most cuticle oil is made with a few simple ingredients, which are usually derived from organic sources, especially vegetables. If you’re looking for specific healing properties or ingredients, you can usually find cuticle oil with nutrients or vitamins to fit your nail care needs.
It Promotes Healthy Nail Growth
Not only does cuticle oil help to protect your current nails, but it can even support future healthy nail growth as well. Below the surface of your nail is the nailbed, where you’ll find the nail matrix, the system that produces healthy tissue and keeps your nails growing strong. When you keep your cuticles moisturized and healthy, you help to promote consistent and strong nail growth that benefits the whole nail system.
It Improves Skin and Nail Appearance
You’re spending time and money to get a manicure you love. Even if you’re more into neutral and subtle styles, you still deserve nails that will make you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.
Cuticle oil is the refresher our nails often need to get that little extra gloss and style. It can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, remove signs of rough or damaged skin, and prevent itchiness or irritation, so your skin and nails always look fresh and healthy.
It Can Repair Damaged Skin and Cuticles
Cuticle oil goes beyond simply fixing the appearance of damaged skin. It can also get below the surface to help generate cell growth and reduce the effects of damage to the nails and surrounding areas. Proper moisturization and hydration can support fresh cell growth and help to repaired damaged skin quickly and effectively.
It Helps To Prevent Infections
We use our hands so much throughout the day, our skin is often exposed to bacteria and infections. When you keep your nails and cuticles healthy and well-maintained, you reduce the risk of cracking or damage from dry skin, hangnails, and other irritations. A little bit of hydration and moisture can help to protect your nails from larger health complications.
It Extends the Life of Your Manicure
You take time and use resources to get the manicure you really love—and you deserve for it to last. When you keep your nails moisturized and your cuticles healthy, it can help to extend the life of your manicure and keep you feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin.
It Makes You Feel Good
Dry, itchy skin and damaged nails can be very uncomfortable. Cuticle oil can help to provide relief from dry, cracked skin and scratched or irritated cuticles. Not only will it help your nails to look better, but you’ll feel better overall, as well.
How and When Do I Apply Cuticle Oil?
There are many benefits to using cuticle oil on your nails, but how do you know when to apply it? Here’s a look at the best times to add cuticle oil to your nails.
During a Manicure
A manicure is a great way to get a gorgeous look and express your creativity. It’s also the best time for taking care of your nails, by filing edges, removing hangnails, and applying cuticle oil. Always add that hydrating step to your nail care routine.
Before Bed
We often feel dry and dehydrated when we wake in the morning, and you’re likely feeling thirsty all over. When you apply cuticle oil before bed, you’ll help to prevent the nails from getting dry and encourage overnight growth, since the oil will really have the chance to get absorbed and start working its magic.
After Washing Your Hands
It’s important to remember that you only ever want to apply a tiny touch of cuticle oil. A little goes a long way, and you don’t want to overdo it or leave your fingers and nails feeling oily.
That being said, washing our hands can really dry out the nails and skin, especially the sensitive skin around the nail. You don’t need to apply cuticle oil after every wash, but it can be especially helpful to integrate cuticle oil into your regular hand washing routine.
When Your Nails Look Dry
If you notice your nails are looking a little dry, give them the moisture they crave. Like a house plant, you can often tell if the nail needs a little cuticle oil just from a glance.
It’s always a good idea to inspect your nails regularly, as this can help you to notice changes or indications of wear or damage. If you see dryness or irritation, add a touch of cuticle oil for relief.
Strong Cuticles for the Win
There are many great nail tools that can help you to keep your nails looking healthy, bright, and bold, but one essential part of any manicure toolbox is the cuticle oil. There are many reasons you’ll want to use cuticle oil regularly.
It helps to hydrate and moisturize your nails and skin, can encourage nail growth, makes your manicures last longer, and even provides relief from itching and irritation. Apply it during manicures, after hand washes, and any time you notice that your nails are a little bit dry.
Nailboo is here to help you get the nail care support that you deserve. We carry easy-to-use dip kits, nail tips, and other great supplies that allow you to achieve a salon-quality manicure without the salon-quality cost.
We’re also sharing information on our favorite tools and products for keeping your nails safe. Whether you’re a manicure pro or you’re just taking the next steps on your nail art and care journey, add a bottle of cuticle oil to your routine. Your nails are sure to thank you.
Sources:
Fingernails: Do’s and Don’ts for Healthy Nails | Cleveland Clinic
Twelve Ways to Prevent Another Nail Infection | American Academy of Dermatology Association
How Do You Remove, Heal, and Prevent Hangnails? | GQ Magazine
