Cuticle Oil Can Help Your Nails Grow - Here's How

If you've ever had your manicure or pedicure professionally done, then you are well aware that part of the process involves soaking your fingers (and toes!) in soapy water. This is done so that the cuticle (the piece of skin right where the nail begins) softens and the nail artist can cut it. While cutting the cuticle makes the nail appear longer and more polished, the cuticle is actually more than just a piece of unnecessary skin. On this, Corey L. Hartman, M.D., explained to PopSugar, "The function of the nail cuticle is to protect the new nail from bacterial and fungal infections as they grow out from the nail root."

Seeing that cuticles are an important part of your nails' health, it is not surprising that cuticle oil can actually help your nails grow. "... if cuticle oil is applied regularly with either a massaging motion or a roller ball applicator, it can help to stimulate blood flow to the digits and thus contribute to healthy nail growth," board-certified dermatologist Dana Stern, M.D., told Real Simple. While the massaging motion can boost circulation, the oil itself hydrates the cuticles, which then become stronger and more efficient at keeping out damaging substances from the cells at the base of the nail.

"Cuticles serve several important purposes for your nails and fingers," board-certified dermatologist Linda J. Banta, M.D., confirmed to InStyle, highlighting that they also maintain moist nail beds, which promotes nail growth. To help cuticles play their role in your nail health, it's vital to keep them hydrated, and cuticle oil is the best weapon in your arsenal.

"The skin of the cuticle is what envelops and protects the nail matrix where nail growth originates. If that skin is dry or compromised, allergens (such as fragrance) and dehydrating chemicals can more easily penetrate and damage the matrix," board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kseniya Kobets, M.D., shared with Self. So, put simply, you need your cuticle to be well-hydrated to protect your nails and support healthy nail growth. 

Thankfully, there are ways to revive your dry nails and cuticles, starting with a cuticle oil. "Cuticle oils are helpful to lubricate and hydrate the cuticle as well as create a barrier to other potential irritants," board-certified dermatologist Rina Weimann, M.D., FAAD, told Byrdie. Think of it this way — the skin on our face needs serums and moisturizing creams to protect it from the aging effects of the sun's rays and the environmental polluting factors which dry it up. In much the same way, the skin on our nails (or our cuticles) needs the same TLC. You may want to trim your cuticles to improve the appearance of your nails, but it's important to leave cuticle removal to the professionals or properly — and carefully — remove them at home. "Improper cuticle cutting can result in chronic cuticle damage, affecting the appearance of your nails and causing the surrounding skin to become rough and irritated and more susceptible to infection," Linda J. Banta told InStyle.

In a YouTube video, nail and skincare expert Danielle Corbin-Jaime explained that you can begin applying cuticle oil by "[pushing] back the cuticles." Next, apply the oil around them. After that, give each finger a "mini massage" to evenly spread the oil around the cuticle and nail bed. If you plan on adding nail polish onto your nails, Corbin-Jaime suggested that you take a cotton bud infused with alcohol and rub your nails clean to remove excess oil first. And that's it!

When searching for a cuticle oil, look for ingredients that will deeply nourish  your cuticles to promote healthy nail growth. Some of the best ingredients include argan oil, shea oil, almond oil, apricot oil, rose extracts, and vitamin E. Some cuticle oils come with a droplet applicator, some come in a tube, and others come with a built-in sponge or a brush. Since the cost of buying cuticle oils is not excessive, you may play around to figure out which brand, ingredients, and application method works best for your nails. Corbin-Jaime suggested picking one with a brush for personal use, as it's easier to apply. 

However, don't feel like you have to rush to the beauty store to stock up on cuticle oils. No cuticle oil? No problem! Perfect alternatives you can use include coconut oil and jojoba oil. If you are lacking in the oil department then you can also use your lip balm (yes, really!) or your vitamin E cream. Easy-peasy!