Soft, healthy cuticles are the foundation of strong, beautiful nails, but store-bought cuticle oils can be pricey and filled with unnecessary additives.
This DIY cuticle oil recipe is a simple and cost-effective way to keep your nails strong, hydrated, and healthy.
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The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make your own cuticle oil and lets you customize ingredients to match your skin’s needs.
With just a few natural ingredients, you’ll have a nourishing homemade cuticle oil that’s customized for your nail care routine.
Table of Contents
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What Is Cuticle Oil?
Cuticle oil is a blend of natural oils, vitamins, and sometimes essential oils that hydrate and strengthen not your cuticles and nails.
The lightweight texture of homemade cuticle oil allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin, promoting flexibility and preventing breakage. It’s like giving your nails and cuticles a nutrient-packed drink.
Ingredients for DIY Cuticle Oil Recipe
This DIY cuticle oil recipe is completely customizable.
Below you’ll find a basic recipe option with additional options for customizing the recipe for your needs.
The basic cuticle oil recipe uses just 2 components carrier oil and essential oil. Each of these two components plays a role in nourishing your nails and cuticles, helping you achieve that healthy, hydrated look you’re after.
Basic DIY Cuticle Oil Recipe
- 2 tablespoons Carrier Oil/s: Scroll down for best carrier oils for cuticles
- 3 drops Essential Oils: See options below
- Vitamin E oil or aloe vera gel for added benefits: Scroll down to learn more
Supplies:
- Small glass bottles with a dropper or roller top (amber or cobalt blue glass works best to shield the oil from light)
- A small funnel for easy pouring
- Measuring spoons for accuracy
- Clean dry glass bowl or mixing container
How To Make & Customize Homemade Cuticle Oil
The beauty of this DIY cuticle oil recipe is that it’s entirely customizable – you’re in control of what your nails and cuticles need most.
Here’s a straightforward method to follow:
Start with a base of carrier oil: Carrier oils are the foundation of any DIY cuticle oil recipe. Add around 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil/s into your mixing bowl. If you plan to make larger batches, adjust measurements accordingly.
Add essential oils: Add 3-4 drops of your chosen essential oil(s) for every tablespoon of carrier oil. For example, if you’re using 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil, add 6-8 drops of lavender or tea tree oil.
Enhance with extras: If you’re using Vitamin E oil or aloe vera gel, add a few drops at this stage. These optional ingredients boost hydration and strengthen nails.
This is a light, quick-absorbing cuticle oil recipe, perfect for everyday use. If you’re looking for a richer, more luxurious nail care option, try my DIY cuticle balm recipe made with shea butter, argan oil, and beeswax pellets.
Best Carrier Oils for Cuticles & Benefits of Each
Each carrier oil offers a different set of benefits for cuticles. The table below highlights the benefits of each. You’ll find more detailed information on the benefits in this list of the best carrier oils for cuticles.
Read through it and then choose one or a combination of carrier oils based on your desired results.
Carrier Oil Benefits
| Jojoba Oil | Lightweight, closely resembles natural sebum, absorbs easily, rich in vitamins E & B-complex |
| Sweet Almond Oil | Strengthens brittle nails, softens cuticles, rich in vitamin E & magnesium, go-to carrier oil for hydrating dry cuticles |
| Argan Oil | Lightweight but deeply nourishing, strengthens weak nails, prevents splitting |
| Coconut Oil | Antibacterial, antifungal, deeply moisturizing, forms a protective barrier |
| Avocado Oil | Rich in biotin & vitamins A, D, and E, promotes hydration & repair and is excellent for dry skin |
| Olive Oil | High in antioxidants & vitamin E, deeply penetrates & nourishes cuticles |
| Grapeseed Oil | Lightweight, fast-absorbing, restores moisture, strengthens nails |
| Castor Oil | Contains ricinoleic acid, encourages nail growth, repairs brittle nails |
Want a lighter, quick-absorbing oil? Jojoba might be your best bet.
Prefer something richer for deep hydration? Sweet almond oil pairs beautifully with coconut oil.
For sensitive skin, stick to gentle oils like lavender and avoid stronger ones like citrus or tea tree unless diluted properly.
The above table is a snapshot of the more detailed benefits of carrier oils for cuticles. Feel free to experiment with different oils to suit your preferences.
Elevate Cuticle Care With Herb-Infused Carrier Oils
Give your DIY cuticle oil recipe a boost with infused carrier oils.
Infused oils are made by infusing herbs in carrier oil. The resultant infusion is packed with the therapeutic properties of the oil as well as herbs or flowers steeped in it.
Infused carrier oils added benefits like hydration, soothing inflammation, promoting nail growth, and protecting against infections. These all-natural additions will take your cuticle care to the next level.
Here’s a list of infused oils that are perfect additions to your cuticle oil recipe, along with the benefits they bring to nail health:
Calendula-Infused Oil
Calendula is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It helps hydrate dry cuticles, reduces irritation, and promotes skin healing.
Calendula infused oil is ideal for sensitive or damaged skin around the nails and for cuticles regularly exposed to harsh conditions.
Lavender-Infused Oil
Lavender is calming for both the skin and senses. It has mild antiseptic properties, promotes relaxation, and supports healthy nail beds.
Lavender infused oil is great for use in a nighttime routine for ultimate relaxation and hydration.
Rose-Infused Oil
Rose is a powerhouse for hydration and rejuvenation. It helps improve the appearance of dry, cracked, or aging cuticles while adding a subtle floral scent.
Rose infused oil is a luxurious addition to cuticle oils for an instant hydrating boost.
Rosemary-Infused Oil
Rosemary enhances circulation, which can help stimulate nail growth. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Rosemary infused oil is beneficial for boosting nail strength and maintaining clean cuticles.
Lavender-Rosemary Infused Oil
Lavender-rosemary infused oil combines the calming and soothing properties of lavender with rosemary’s ability to promote circulation and nail growth. The antibacterial and antifungal qualities of both oils ensure your cuticles stay clean and healthy.
This double-herb infusion is excellent for strengthening nails, calming inflamed cuticles, and encouraging growth.
Chamomile-Infused Oil
Chamomile is incredibly gentle and reduces redness, inflammation, and irritation. It’s amazing for softening tough cuticles.
Chamomile infused oil is excellent for people with sensitive or irritated skin around the nails.
Arnica-Infused Oil
Arnica is a powerful anti-inflammatory and promotes healing. It can soothe sore, inflamed cuticles and help repair minor nail bed injuries.
Arnica infused oil is excellent for clogged or stressed cuticles, especially after excessive nail work or exposure to tough conditions.
Chamomile-Lavender Infused Oil
A super-gentle combination that soothes irritated skin, reduces dryness, and provides deep hydration. Both lavender and chamomile are perfect for sensitive or damaged cuticles.
Chamomile-lavender infused oil is ideal for a calming, all-in-one cuticle oil that repairs hydration and minimizes redness.
Coffee-Infused Oil
Coffee is rich in antioxidants and caffeine, which may stimulate circulation when applied to the skin. Improved circulation around the nail bed can promote healthier nail growth. Additionally, the antioxidants can help protect the skin and cuticles from environmental damage.
Coffee-infused oil might not offer as much direct moisture as some alternatives, but it could complement other carrier oils in boosting nail health.
Best Essential Oils to Add to Your DIY Cuticle Oil Recipe
While the carrier oils handle most of the hydration, adding essential oils can turn your cuticle oil into a powerhouse of benefits. These potent aromatic oils offer targeted properties based on your needs.
Essential oils are an optional but highly beneficial addition. They pack a punch with potent properties that enhance your cuticle oil’s effectiveness. Plus, they smell amazing!
Here are some popular essential oils to add to the DIY category:
Tea Tree: Tea tree is the best essential oil for cuticles when you’re looking to fend off bacteria or fungus. Its natural antimicrobial properties make tea tree essential oil a great addition for preventing nail infections or soothing irritated cuticles. Use sparingly, as it can be strong.
Lavender: Known for its calming scent, lavender essential oil is also fantastic for soothing inflamed or sensitive skin. It gently moisturizes and can help reduce redness around your nails, leaving your hands looking healthier. Its antibacterial properties help keep infections at bay, making it a great all-rounder.
Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus essential oil has a refreshing scent and boosts circulation around the nail bed, which can encourage healthier nail growth. It’s also antibacterial, adding an extra layer of protection.
Lemon: Bright and zesty, lemon essential oil works as a natural brightener, perfect for keeping your nails looking healthy while protecting against nail discoloration. Its natural brightening properties reduce yellowing and dullness while adding a fresh, citrusy aroma.
When adding essential oils, start small – typically 2-3 drops for every tablespoon of carrier oil. Too much can irritate the skin, so adjust based on your sensitivity.
Keep in mind your skin’s needs when choosing. For a hydration boost, go with lavender; for an anti-bacterial kick, tea tree could be your winner.
Additional Ingredients to Enhance Effectiveness
If you’re looking for an extra boost, there are additional ingredients you can include in your cuticle oil to improve its effectiveness. While these aren’t required, they can help address specific issues or give your blend a professional edge.
Vitamin E Oil: A powerhouse ingredient for hydration and repair, vitamin E oil helps reduce dryness, cracking, and peeling. It works to lock in moisture and can even aid in healing damaged skin.
Aloe Vera Gel: Struggling with dryness? Aloe vera can be a game-changer when it comes to keeping your cuticles hydrated. Its soothing properties are especially helpful for cracked or irritated skin. Mix a few drops of aloe vera gel into your oil base for extra moisture.
Honey: This natural humectant attracts moisture, making it a great option for extra hydration. Honey also has antibacterial properties that can benefit dry, cracked cuticles.
Essential Fatty Acids or Biotin Drops: Adding oils or supplements high in fatty acids (like flaxseed oil) or biotin can give your nails an extra-strength boost. These are particularly helpful if your nails frequently crack or break.
D-Panthenol (Provitamin B5): This lesser-known additive is highly effective for promoting hydration and elasticity in your nails and cuticles. It improves moisture retention and adds a protective barrier.
Feel free to experiment with these add-ins to create a blend tailored to your specific concerns.
How to Use Homemade Cuticle Oil
While creating the perfect mix of oils is important, knowing how and when to apply it, and pairing it with other nail care practices, ensures you get the maximum benefit.
Here’s how you can make your routine truly effective.
When and How to Apply Cuticle Oil
Timing is everything when it comes to using cuticle oil. Applying it at the right moments can help lock in moisture and prevent dryness, especially if your hands are exposed to water, cold weather, or harsh conditions throughout the day.
Before bed: Nighttime is one of the best times to apply homemade cuticle oil. Your body naturally repairs itself while you sleep, and the oil works alongside this process to deeply nourish your nails and skin. Simply massage a few drops into your cuticles before hitting the pillow, and let it absorb overnight.
After washing your hands: Frequent handwashing can strip your skin and nails of moisture, leaving them prone to dryness and cracking. Keep a small bottle of DIY cuticle oil nearby, and apply it right after washing your hands to replenish lost hydration.
Post-manicure: Whether you’re doing an at-home manicure or visiting the salon, finishing with cuticle oil is a must. It soothes any irritation and leaves your nails looking polished and nourished. If you’ve removed polish recently, the oil can also help restore moisture to the nail bed.
The application process itself is simple. Add a small drop of the oil to each nail, then gently massage it into the cuticle and surrounding skin in circular motions. This increases absorption and also boosts circulation around the nail, promoting growth.
If you’re wearing nail polish or gel, don’t worry. Cuticle oil is safe to use and won’t interfere with your manicure. Just make sure to focus on the skin and avoid saturating the nail surface to maintain the longevity of your polish.
Pairing Cuticle Oil with Other Nail Care Routines
Think of cuticle oil as the cornerstone of your nail care routine. While it works wonders on its own, pairing it with other simple practices can enhance its effectiveness and keep your nails looking their best.
Here are a few ways to combine cuticle oil with complementary care routines:
Hydrating hand masks: Treat your hands to a weekly hydrating mask, and follow up with cuticle oil to seal in the moisture. Many masks soften the skin but leave cuticles needing extra care, and oil fills this gap perfectly.
Daily moisturizing: Apply a hand cream or lotion throughout the day, and finish with cuticle oil for additional hydration. Think of cuticle oil as the cherry on top; it locks in the benefits of your moisturizer and targets the delicate skin around your nails.
During manicure prep: Before pushing back cuticles or trimming them, apply a few drops of oil to soften the area. This makes the process easier and reduces the risk of accidentally nicking or damaging the skin. Use a cuticle pusher gently and remember to wash your hands afterward.
After nail strengthening treatments: If you use protein-rich nail strengtheners or biotin drops, adding cuticle oil afterward can amplify the results. The moisturizer protects the nail as it absorbs nutrients, keeping everything balanced.
Pro tip: To elevate your routine, try warming your DIY cuticle oil slightly before applying it. It absorbs faster and feels like a mini spa treatment, especially when paired with a relaxing hand massage. Just be sure the oil is warm, not hot, to avoid irritation.
By integrating cuticle oil into these broader nail care habits, you’ll create a balanced routine that keeps your nails strong, nourished, and healthy. Small, consistent steps add up, and your hands will thank you every time.
DIY Cuticle Oil Recipe Shelf Life and Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to keeping your DIY cuticle oil fresh longer. Here’s how you can protect the quality of your blend
Use dark glass bottles. Light exposure can degrade the oils over time, so store your blend in amber or cobalt blue bottles to block UV rays.
Store bottles in a cool & dry place. Moisture and heat can affect the shelf life, so store your oil in a cool, dry place—like a bathroom cabinet or bedroom drawer. Avoid leaving it near windows or in direct sunlight.
Label your bottles. Write the date you made the cuticle oil on the bottle to track its freshness.
As for shelf life, most DIY cuticle oils last around 6-12 months, depending on the oils you use. Carrier oils like coconut and jojoba have longer shelf lives, while oils like sweet almond may expire sooner. If you notice any changes in smell, color, or texture, it’s time to make a fresh batch.
With these storage tips, your cuticle oil will be ready to nourish your nails anytime you need it!
Benefits of Using DIY Cuticle Oil
Regular use of DIY cuticle oil goes beyond improving the appearance of your nails – it provides lasting benefits for nail health, hydration, and sustainability.
Improved Nail Health: DIY cuticle oil nourishes and hydrates the cuticles, promoting stronger, healthier nails. It creates a protective barrier, sealing in moisture and shielding nails from bacteria and environmental damage. This helps reduce breakage, strengthen nails, and encourage even nail growth.
Softer, Hydrated Cuticles: Dry, cracked cuticles can be uncomfortable and prone to issues. This DIY cuticle oil recipe provides targeted hydration, ensuring cuticles are soft, supple, and irritation-free. Hydrated cuticles form a healthy foundation for nails, preventing peeling and cracking while keeping nails polished and well-maintained.
Budget-Friendly and Sustainable: Making your own cuticle oil is cost-effective and eco-friendly. It eliminates the need for pricey, over-packaged store-bought products and allows you to customize your blend with sustainable ingredients.
This DIY cuticle oil recipe makes nail care affordable, effective, and kind to the planet. This simple addition to your routine offers healthier nails and softer cuticles, all while saving you money and reducing environmental impact.
Whether it’s jojoba for hydration, tea tree for protection, or a personalized blend of your favorite oils, a DIY cuticle oil recipe gives you the power to choose nourishing ingredients that work best for your nails.
Ready to give it a try? With just a few ingredients and a few minutes, you can transform your nail care routine into something effective, affordable, and completely your own. Your hands deserve the extra love!
