Have you ever seen what professional nail technicians apply to your nails while you’re in the salon? While you’re focused on scrolling through Instagram or replying to messages on your smartphone with only one hand. It’s difficult to avoid looking at your nails when you ca unable to move your hands without damaging your manicure. However, your need to return to your phone is why you’ve not seen the fantastic final application of the cuticle oil. What’s that thing you’ve always skipped when you make your own?
What would we say if a small drop of oil could give you an extra day or two of your gorgeous fingers? Now we’ve piqued your interest. Along with the moisturizing effect of peeling and scuffed, cuticles can be restored to their original health Cuticle oil creates an additional layer of protection to shield your polish. If you damage your nails while still not dry, the culprit will disappear instead of catching and smudging your otherwise excellent tips. But what exactly does cuticle oil, and what is it used for? We talked with nail professionals Michelle Saunders and Sonia Hully for more information.
What Is Cuticle Oil?
“Cuticle oil is usually composed of a fruit or nut oil–olive, apricot, almond, avocado, coconut–specifically applied to cuticles (skin surrounding fingernails),” says celebrity manicurist Michelle Saunders. She explains that cuticle oils nourish the cuticle and the nails. “Sometimes I recommend soaking the tips of the fingers in pure avocado oil, especially if your nails are brittle and chipping,” she says.
The Benefits of Cuticle Oil
The cuticles are hydrated. Cuticle oil helps deal with dry, flaky skin around nails by providing immediate hydration. “Look for oils that are rich in nutrients that are quickly absorbed in the cuticles. Almond oil sweet is reparative, and doesn’t have the feel of greasy, and vitamins E, A B1 B2, B2 and B6 are excellent hydrators,” claims Sonia Hully, founder of Nailberry.
To strengthen nails that are weak. “It keeps the skin and nails supple, which then prevents hangnails and nail breakage,” Says Saunders. This is particularly beneficial when cuticles are exposed to extreme temperatures (freezing temperatures or exposure to sunlight) or cracking due to the excessive use of salt or chemicals (salt swimming pools and chlorinated swimming pools or even harsh cleaners).
Increases the growth of nails. Similar to hair, long nails are healthy nails. Cuticle oil is not just helpful in healing damaged nails but also prevents any further damage from happening. It can also improve circulation around nails (from the action of rubbing it into them), which could increase the growth of your nails. Saunders says that moisturized cuticles can keep the possibility of picking or gnashing the loose skin around your nails.
It adds shine. There’s a reason nail technicians apply cuticle oil, and it’s not only to maintain the health of your nails. The oily, rich ingredients cover the skin, and fresh, dried polish can increase the shine and shield your manicure from premature cracking or chipping.
How to Apply Cuticle Oil
Cleanse cuticles. Take care to wash your hands, focusing on your nails and fingertips. It is possible to soften the cuticle by letting them sit in soapy, warm water (just as you would at Nail salons) every week.
Cleanse cuticles. This is not required; however, it is essential to mention that if you like the look of the cuticles that a salon has maintained, then gently push them back using the cuticle pusher following the softening process. Trim away any loose skin or hangnails. Cutting cuticles is not recommended because it could cause an infection.
Use cuticle oil. “There are several different applicators that cuticle oil can come with,” Saunders states. “It’s ideally applied to each cuticle on each finger and rubbed in, and is recommended after each hand washing but could also be applied as often as you like.” If the cuticle oil you’re using does not come with an applicator, apply a few drops with a cotton ball’s help.
Massage the cuticle oil. Spend a few minutes applying the oil to every cuticle. This simple touch makes sure the oil is total absorption, so you don’t have grease-stained fingerprints that can be found throughout your home. (If you’ve used excessively, remove the excess using the help of a clean cloth or tissue). It will also aid in the circulation and growth of your nails.
When to Use Cuticle Oil
In a perfect world, you’d apply a little every when you cleaned your hands to keep them from drying out. Your nails that aren’t damaged will also be delighted by some of the great products. It can be used before painting your nails; however, maensurehat the oil has been completely absorbed, or else the polish won’t stick properly. “Anytime your cuticles appear dry, you can apply cuticle oil to them,” Saunders suggests. Saunders.
Apply cuticle oil beforehand and allow it to sit overnight so it has time to soak within the cuticles.
Jessica Phenomen Oil
Similar to dynamite in your hands, It’s rare to see an athlete without this on their hands, even if they’re tied to a different brand. Jojoba oil, Sweet almond oil, and rice bran oil comprise its cuticle-softening powers.
L’Occitane Shea Nail and Cuticle Oil
It’s not just that this cuticle oil aid in strengthening cuticles and nails, but it’s also among Saunders’ top picks. “It’s good to keep in your purse or car,” Saunders says.
Nails Inc. Vitamin E Cuticle Oil Pen
The great thing about this technique is that it’s not messy. When you twist the end, small amounts of oil will be visible through the brush so that you can apply it to the cuticles. It’s spill-free, making it an essential item.
French Girl Nail & Cuticle Oil
The roller-ball applicator cuticle oil is straightforward to apply. In addition, they use high-quality oils like hemp, argan, and pomegranate oils, to ensure that your cuticles and nails remain well-hydrated and unaffected.
How long should you keep Cuticle Oil on?
After being absorbed into the skin, the cuticle oil will be left on until the next hand wash. The longer it stays on the skin, the more effective. If you apply nail polish before applying, be sure that the oil is entirely absorbent before applying the polish; otherwise, it will not set correctly.