How to Apply Cuticle Oil

Co-authored by Lindsay Yoshitomi

Last Updated: October 28, 2024

Cuticle oil is a great way to keep your nails looking clean and healthy. Start by applying the oil to each nail on one of your hands. You can drop it on, brush it on, or roll it on, depending on the type of applicator you have. Then take a minute to massage the oil into your cuticles. Use cuticle oil before bedtime, after you have pushed back your cuticles, or whenever you have free time. Do not apply the oil before getting a manicure. Instead, wait until afterwards to apply the oil.

Applying Cuticle Oil: Overview

Squeeze a drop of oil onto each nail, holding the dropper 2 inches (5 cm) from the nail.
Massage the oil into your cuticles, nails, and the skin surrounding your nails.
Re-apply the cuticle oil every 2 to 3 hours or as often as needed.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Massaging the Oil into Your Cuticles

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Do this if your cuticle oil uses a dropper to dispense the oil. Other cuticle oil products may use a brush (like nail polish) or a roller to dispense the oil.
2
Apply the oil to each nail. Focusing on one hand at a time, squeeze a drop of oil onto each nail. A little oil goes a long way, but don't be afraid to apply liberally and often.
- Alternatively, use the brush or the roller to dot each nail with oil.
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3
Massage the oil into your cuticles. Make sure to massage it into the sides of your nail, as well as the skin surrounding your nail. Take a minute to massage the oil into your nails to induce blood circulation.
- Repeat steps one through three on your other hand.
It takes around two to three hours for the oil to completely absorb and dry. Or, reapply as often as you need to.^{[1]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Deciding When to Use Cuticle Oil

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1
Use the oil after a manicure. Cuticle oil is a great way to rehydrate your cuticles after a manicure. The oil will not harm or remove the nail polish. Additionally, cuticle oil is a great way to revamp an old manicure. Just massage the oil over your cuticles and nails to give them a fresh shine.^{[2]
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- Do not use it before a manicure. The oil will prevent the nail polish from adhering to your nail. If you do decide to use it before a manicure, then make sure to wipe your nails clean with nail polish remover or alcohol.
2
Apply the oil after you have pushed back your cuticles. First soften your cuticles by soaking them in water for 10 minutes. Once they are soft, use an orangewood stick or a metal cuticle pusher to push them back. Then massage the cuticle oil into your cuticles.^{[3]
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- It is recommended that you do not trim, cut, or remove your cuticles.
3
Put it on whenever you have free time. Apply the oil whenever you are riding the bus or sitting in a taxicab, at your work desk, or on the couch while watching TV, for example. Basically, whenever you have some downtime.^{[4]
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- Apply cuticle oil twice a day, or more if you need to.
This is a great way to ensure that your cuticles stay hydrated and nourished for the coming day. Just remember to be persistent and consistent to keep your cuticles looking healthy.

Expert Q&A

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Can I put on cuticle oil before a manicure?

Lindsay Yoshitomi
Nail Artist
Lindsay Yoshitomi is the nail artist behind the blog, Lacquered Lawyer. She was featured as one of Nail It! magazine’s “Bloggers You Should Know,” and has been on the cover of Nail Art Gallery Magazine. She has been practicing nail art for over 15 years.

Lindsay Yoshitomi

Nail Artist

Expert Answer

Don't put on cuticle oil before getting a manicure. Doing so can prevent the polish from sticking to your nail and can also lead to chipping.

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