Natural Cuticle Treatment

Healthy cuticles are key for beautiful nails.

Now matter how flawlessly polished your nails, dry and ragged cuticles can ruin the look of any manicure. But most salon-brand cuticle treatments are costly, and with daily use, they get quickly get used up and often need replenishment. However, you can create your own cuticle treatment right at home for a fraction of the cost, and you may have the supplies you need right in your kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• 1/4-cup measuring cup
• Food-grade oil such as extra-virgin olive, coconut, almond or apricot
• Dark glass bottle with dropper
• Fragrant essential oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Measure 1/4 cup of the food-grade oil of your choice and pour it into an amber or a dark-colored glass bottle with a dropper lid. The dark bottle will keep out light and prevent the oil from going rancid.

2. Add 10 to 20 drops of your preferred essential oil to the glass bottle, if desired; tighten the lid; and shake well to mix. You can use any fragrance oil you like, or even mix several scents, but some popular choices include lavender, lemon, peppermint, rose, frankincense and tea tree oils.

3. Massage several drops of the oil mixture into your cuticles and nail bed every day, and, if desired, push back cuticles with an orange wood stick.

4. Store the bottle of cuticle oil in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh as long as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• For best results, use the cuticle oil after a hot shower or bath. Your cuticles will be softer and will absorb the oil better than when they're dry.

References

• Beautylish: Splurge or Save: Cuticle Care
• Natural Nail Care Recipes: Cuticle Oil Recipes