Our hands do a lot for us, but caring for them often comes last in our beauty routines. We oil our hair, mask our skin and balm our lips, so why do we forget our cuticles? The skin around our nails is one of those small details we tend to notice only when it becomes dry, rough, begins to peel or develops a hangnail. The good news is cuticle oils can help with targeted care. Read on to know more.
Why do cuticles need more care?
Cuticles form part of the protective seal around the nail. When they are picked, torn or cut too aggressively, that barrier can become compromised, leaving small openings through which bacteria can enter and potentially cause inflammation or an infection such as paronychia. This is why dermatologists generally recommend leaving the cuticle intact and avoiding biting or picking at the surrounding skin. One should also be mindful during manicures can help prevent unnecessary injury.
What can cuticle oil actually do?
Cuticle oil is primarily about conditioning the skin around the nail. A few drops can soften dry cuticles, smooth rough-looking skin and help keep the area supple. For those prone to hangnails, keeping the surrounding skin moisturised may also help prevent it from becoming excessively dry and prone to splitting.
It doesn’t need to become an elaborate beauty ritual. Keep one beside your bed, on your vanity or in your handbag and apply it whenever you have a spare moment. While cuticle oil can improve the look and feel of the nail area, it isn’t a miracle treatment for nail growth or a replacement for treating an existing nail or skin problem. Its real benefit lies in keeping the area conditioned with regular use.
Who can benefit most from using cuticle oil?
Cuticle oil can be useful for anyone looking to maintain their nails and surrounding skin, especially for frequent handwashers and sanitiser users, as well as those who regularly remove polish or get gel manicures. If your cuticles often feel tight, look rough or develop small hangnails, you should consider adding them to your routine.
How to use cuticle oil?
Apply a small drop to the base of each nail, then gently massage it over the cuticle and along the sides of the nail. You don’t need to drench the nails; a little is enough. Use it whenever your cuticles feel dry, after washing your hands or as part of your bedtime routine.
If you use hand cream too, apply the oil first and follow with your hand cream. And while softened cuticles may be tempting to pick at, resist the urge: dermatologists advise against cutting or aggressively pushing them back.
What to look for when choosing cuticle oil?
Look for conditioning oils and emollient ingredients that can help soften the skin and consider the texture too, from lightweight formulas that absorb quickly to richer treatments suited to overnight use.
The format matters just as much. A brush-on bottle works well for a bedside ritual, while a pen is convenient for your handbag or desk drawer. Droppers and serum-like formulas can be a more indulgent option for anyone who enjoys making nail care part of their beauty routine.
The cuticle oils worth trying
CHANEL L’Huile Camélia Hydrating & Fortifying Oil
A lightweight gel-to-oil treatment enriched with camellia oil and camellia-derived ceramides, this formula hydrates the cuticles while nourishing the nails. Its flexible applicator makes it easy to work the oil across the nail and cuticle area, leaving them looking smooth and cared for.
