In winter, we lavish attention on dried-out cheeks and chapped lips, yet the delicate skin around our nails often goes overlooked. It is high time to revive those frayed, neglected cuticles and bring them back to life
In winter’s beauty hierarchy, a few essentials always top the list: a solid skincare routine to lock in moisture and an appointment with the hairdresser to keep our hair hydrated, for example. But cuticle care? That often slips further down our self-care priorities.
For those looking to prevent breakage and encourage strong nail growth, cuticle oil is just as essential as your winter lip balm. "In colder temperatures, the skin, cuticles, and nail plate get dry and brittle," explains celebrity nail artist Frida Selkirk. "Applying cuticle oil daily softens the cuticle, keeps it elastic, and prevents the nail plate from peeling."
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What is cuticle oil?
Cuticle oil is a moisturising product applied to your nails and cuticles (the thin skin at the base of the nail. Aside from giving your nails a nice appearance (the shine can make them look healthier and smoother) it can hydrate the cuticle, strengthen the nail, and provide protection against hangnails and infections.
How do I use cuticle oil?
Daily cuticle oil application is vital for hand and nail health. It replenishes oils lost from washing, preventing dryness, cracking, and peeling. Consistent use promotes flexibility and healthier nail growth. To apply, Selkirk recommends holding your finger upright, the nail facing away, and dabbing the oil just behind the free edge. “Let it drip through the sides before massaging it into the cuticle,” she advises.
If you are unsure where to begin when bolstering your nail care, we have rounded up our 5 favourites below:
The best cuticle oil over all
What it does: Enriched with 30% shea butter, this almost impossibly rich oil is the best way to moisturise, nourish and protect your nails and cuticles.
Why we love it: The brush applicator means targeted, smooth, easy application, which is mess-free - plus you can use the brush to massage in the product, meaning your fingers don't get greasy.
The best drugstore cuticle oil
What it does: Infused with the likes of sweet almond oil, coconut oil and walnut seed oil, this nourishing oil softens cuticles whilst simultaneously strengthening your nails, providing all with healthy-looking hydration.
Why we love it: This product also boasts being vegan and cruelty-free. We love knowing that the planet loves this product just as much as we do.
The best luxury cuticle oil
What it does: Packed with hite mulberry extract and vitamin E, this oil nurtures, hydrates, fortifies and protects the nails from dryness all whilst providing a non-greasy finish. Use it as the last step in your manicure or the first when prepping for polish.
Why we love it: One of the main reasons to love Hermès has to be the aesthetic, and this nail oil is no exception. It is the best way to elevate this routine to a ritual, adding a touch of luxury - plus it smells great.
The best-smelling cuticle oil
What it does: With jojoba seed oil and apricot oil, this product hydrates and strengthens brittle nails in one swift move, caring for your cuticles at the same time. Its sumptuous oils also give it a fresh apricot scent we are obsessed with.
Why we love it: The roller ball applicator leads to speedy, mess-free and easy application. Simply squeeze a little tube out, roll and go. We love that its fuss free.
The best strengthening cuticle oil
What it does: This powerful formula is enriched with a blend of sweet almond, argan, and rosehip oils, expertly chosen to strengthen nails, boost gloss, and significantly reduce breakage. A healthy dose of Vitamin A further conditions both nails and cuticles, offering protection against damage from external stressors.
Why we love it: It’s a dual-action hero, treating both the nails and the cuticles. Even the most gorgeously groomed hands won't look their best if the nails are weak or chipping. This oil ensures a flawless finish.