An expert explains why you shouldn't skip on cuticle oil (2024)

I wouldn’t quite call it a hobby, but I often find myself peeling hangnails and flaky bits of skin throughout the day. I know I shouldn’t, but we’re all flawed okay.

Not only does the Manucurist Green Oil stop my wandering fingers from picking, but it has also made a huge difference to the health of my nails and the skin that surrounds them.

My nail beds look healthier, and they feel more hydrated. In fact, I don’t have any flaky bits left to pick at – and I’m not even mad about it.

A slick of this Sally Hansen cuticle oil is all that’s needed to keep a mani looking fresh and to prevent your polish from peeling. I know, dreams can come true.

So how does this potion work exactly? It's infused with nourishing ingredients, including vitamin E and aloe, which moisturise the nail bed and prevent polish from peeling away. And because we’re working with some stellar hydrating oils, it will also nourish the surrounding skin to stop hangnails forming.

I’ve kept a steady supply of OPI’s Pro Spa cuticle oil in my kit, and I have zero intentions of replacing it any time soon. Firstly, I appreciate the pen-style applicator which makes applying on the go easy and fuss-free.

As for the ingredients, it’s enriched with grape seed, sesame, kukui and sunflower oils which provide mega nourishment to dehydrated nails. I’d also recommend massaging it into the surrounding skin if you’re experiencing wear and tear.

If broken and brittle nails are your biggest bugbear, then look to this strengthening treatment from Seche. Unlike others on this list, the oil contains keratin which acts as the building blocks to our nails.

When used as a topical treatment, this will help to boost keratin production and lead to stronger nails that are less prone to cracking. You can also smooth it on top of a mani to keep your polish looking glossy.

There’s a reason why this oil is used by every professional in the industry. Since I started using the CND Solar Oil, I have noticed a big difference in the length of my nails.

The star ingredients to thank are jojoba oil and vitamin E, which work to load my cuticles with a serious hydration hit. I also appreciate the brush applicator which makes it very easy to apply – and minimises the risk of spills, too.

This Moroccanoil treatment is one I really, really rate – and not just for using on my cuticles. The honeyed oil can be used as a multi-purpose treatment to hydrate split ends, moisturise dry elbows, and, of course, condition cuticles.

Just a small dollop goes a long way, but with such an addictive aroma, I’m sure you’ll be tempted to cover yourself from head to toe.

This is another of my favourite cuticle oils as the roll-on applicator makes it hassle-free with no mess. It feels super hydrating on the nails and cuticles and is my go-to on days I need to pass the time on the Elizabeth line (hiya if you've spotted me). 😎

But best of all? the apricot scent smells SO good. Essie, we'll be here when you fancy releasing it in fragrance form.

Mylee's Sweet Almond Cuticle Oil Roller Pen is enriched with a hydrating and rich blend of sweet almond, grape seed, peach and sunflower oils.

Much like some of our other faves, the rollerball applicator makes it so easy to use. We love applying the formula to keep our manis fresh and on days our cuticles just need a bit of TLC.

Where do we even begin with this nourishing oil that truly does it all? The lightweight formula can be used on the skin, body and hair for the ultimate boost of nourishment and hydration.

Formulated with authentic Brazilian ingredients from copaiba oil, known for its healing properties, and skin-loving squalane and rosehip oil – your cuticles will look more radiant than ever before.

We love to wind down at the end of a long week, with music on (T-Swift, obvs) and apply the Copa Dew All-Over Nourishing Oil. Trust us, you'll feel so zen!

Dior has you covered if you fancy a super luxe serum for your nails and cuticles. Dry cuticles? The formula includes apricot kernel oil to help strengthen the nails and soften the cuticles, so you don't have to worry about any dryness.

Whilst it is the priciest of our selection, we can confirm that your nails and cuticles will thank you for the experience! 🙏

Why is a cuticle oil important to maintain healthy nails?

Gaëlle Lebrat-Personnaz, the CEO and co-founder of nail care brand Manucurist, tells Cosmopolitan that the cuticle is the thin layer of skin that can be found at the base of the nail bed. If this layer becomes dehydrated, it will cause the nails to become dry and brittle. Not only can this cause damage in the long run, but it will also encourage nail polish to pull away from the surface and peel off.

The good news: Gaëlle explains that when you keep your nails hydrated by using a cuticle oil, it will encourage longer-lasting manicures and a more polished appearance. But besides the aesthetic benefits, frequently using a cuticle oil will create a healthy environment for your nail to grow and it will minimise inflammation.

However, there’s another reason why investing is important: using a cuticle oil will decrease the likelihood of developing an infection. According to Gaëlle, poor nail care will encourage small cuts to form in the cuticle which means that water and bacteria can pass through.

When this happens, it opens the door to infection and can even damage the nail matrix. This is the formative layer of the nail where new growth happens and where cells multiply to load up with keratin.

Just like our hair, keratin is present in the nails which helps to keep them strong and solid. If this system becomes compromised, it will lead to weak and brittle nails. By frequently massaging in a cuticle oil, it will help this structure to function properly and will support strong and healthy nail growth.

What are the best oils to look for?

As we have established, a cuticle oil will make a big difference to the shine and health of your nails. But what are the star ingredients that make this all possible? As you’d imagine, we aren’t short on options. So rather than ‘eenie-meenie-minee-moing' your way into picking a formula, let's talk about the top oils to scan on an INCI list.

“When deciding on a cuticle oil, it’s important to consider the hydration and protection factors of the oils included in the formula,” says Gaëlle.

She recommends oils like coconut, walnut seed and avocado to nourish brittle nails, as well as baobab seed oil, sweet almond oil, and rosemary oil, which have antioxidant properties and will help to fight against damage.

How should you apply a cuticle oil?

If you’re a low-maintenance girlie (‘cause, same) you’ll be pleased to know that there is no strict rulebook to follow – but there are a few things you can do to maximise the benefits of a cuticle oil.

“It’s always a good time to take care of your hands and cuticles, especially in the winter months as cold air is more aggressive and can dry out the skin,” explains Gaëlle. “For maximum benefits, apply a cuticle oil as often as possible to ensure hydration. However, it’s always a wise idea to use one between and after manicures, at night before bed and after washing your hands to avoid cracking,” she adds.

If you’re like me and spend 80% of your day tip-tapping on a laptop, I’d suggest applying a cuticle oil right before bed. This way, the treatment will soak in while you catch your shuteye, and you’ll avoid a greasy keyboard in the process.