Cuticle Oil 101: The 10-Second Habit That Saves Your Manicure
Quick answer: Cuticle oil keeps the skin around your nails soft and helps your nails stay flexible, so they chip and split less. Apply one drop to each cuticle every night, rub it in for a few seconds, and your manicure will look fresh longer.
Why it works
Dry cuticles crack and lift, which makes even fresh polish look old. Dry nails are also more brittle. Oil seals in moisture, protects the skin around the nail and keeps the nail plate flexible.
How to apply it
- Put one drop at the base of each nail.
- Massage it in with the pad of your opposite thumb for a few seconds.
- Rub any extra into your hands.
Best times to use it
- At bedtime. It has all night to soak in.
- After washing your hands, especially in winter.
- Every day with gel or acrylic, to keep the natural nail and skin healthy around the product.
No cuticle oil? Try these
A little plain olive oil, jojoba oil or a thick hand balm works in a pinch. Avoid cutting your cuticles at home. Push them back gently after a shower instead, and leave trimming to your nail tech.
Pair it with a salon visit
Cuticle care is part of every manicure at Diamond Nails, and the Collagen Deluxe Manicure adds extra hydration for dry hands.
Common questions
Should I cut my cuticles?
Not at home. Push them back gently after a shower and let your nail tech trim only loose, dead skin.
Can I use cuticle oil on gel nails?
Yes. It's great for gel, dip and acrylic. Apply it to the skin around the nail every day.
How long until I see a difference?
Most people notice softer cuticles within a week of daily use.
Keep reading
- Nail Hack: Fix a Chipped Nail at Home Until Your Appointment
- A Downtown Duluth Afternoon: Lunch, a Stroll and Fresh Nails
Visit Diamond Nails
Ready for your next appointment? Book online or call or text (678) 473-1057. We're at 3780 Old Norcross Rd, Suite 105 in Duluth, open Mon–Sat 10am–7pm and Sun 11am–5pm. See the full price menu and current offers.
