Cuticle Oil: How to Care for Dry Nails and Cuticles at Home

Frequent hand washing, wudu, sanitiser, washing up, laundry and dry weather all take their toll on hands. Cuticles peel and crack, hangnails appear, and nails can become dry and brittle. A drop of oil each night is one of the easiest fixes there is.

What are cuticles, and why do they get dry?

The cuticle is the thin layer of skin at the base of your nail. It acts as a seal, protecting the area where your nail grows. Because it's thin and constantly exposed to water and soap, it dries out quickly, which leads to peeling, cracking and painful hangnails.

Why use oil on cuticles?

Oil softens this skin, makes it more flexible, and leaves nails looking healthier and glossier. Unlike water-based creams, oil stays put through a little hand washing, so it keeps working longer.

Which oil?

Almond oil is the classic choice for cuticles: light, silky and quick to sink in. For very dry hands, especially in winter, walnut oil gives a richer treatment. You can also blend them; see DIY oil blends.

The 1-minute nightly routine

1. Wash and dry your hands.
2. Place a small drop of oil on each nail bed.
3. Massage it into the cuticles and the skin around each nail with your thumb, in small circles.
4. Rub the rest into your hands and knuckles.

A weekly hand treatment

1. Soak fingertips in warm water for five minutes.
2. Gently push back softened cuticles with a towel. Avoid cutting them.
3. Trim and file nails if needed, filing in one direction.
4. Massage in a generous amount of walnut oil.
5. Wear cotton gloves for an hour, or overnight.

Dealing with hangnails

Never pull or bite a hangnail; it can tear into living skin and become infected. Instead, soften the area with oil, then snip the loose piece with clean nail scissors. Keep it oiled while it heals.

Habits for healthier nails

• Wear rubber gloves for washing up and cleaning.
• Use a gentle hand wash rather than harsh soap.
• Keep nail polish remover use to a minimum; it's very drying.
• Don't use nails as tools to open things.
• Eat a balanced diet; very brittle nails can sometimes signal a nutritional issue, so mention it to a doctor if it persists.

When to see a doctor

If the skin around a nail becomes red, swollen, hot or painful, or if nails change colour or shape, see a doctor. These can be signs of infection or another condition.

See also: walnut oil for dry skin and our winter skin care routine.