How to Make a Cuticle Softening Treatment

Cuticle care is important for healthy nails.

Cuticle softening treatment, most commonly found in oil or cream form, is used to soften and moisturize the cuticles -- the layers of skin found around the fingernails and toenails. A beautician usually applies cuticle softener before you have a manicure or pedicure to make it easier to push back and reshape dry, overgrown or ragged cuticles. Caring for your cuticles in this way keeps your nails healthy and gives them a more attractive appearance. To save money and avoid using harsh chemicals, consider making your own cuticle softening treatment to use when doing your nails at home.

Things You'll Need

• 4 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 2 tsp. jojoba oil
• Cotton balls or swabs
• Small glass or plastic container
• 3 tbsp. paraffin wax
• 1/2 cup mineral oil
• 1 tbsp. coconut oil
• Double boiler
• Wooden spoon
• 1 tbsp. glycerin

Instructions

Cuticle Softening Oil

1. Place 4 drops eucalyptus essential oil and 2 tsp. jojoba oil into a small bowl and mix them well.

2. Dip a clean cotton ball or swab into the oil.

3. Wipe the ball or swab around your cuticles and massage the oil into your cuticles with your fingers.

4. Store the excess cuticle softening oil in a small, lidded glass or plastic container, such as a baby food jar or an old, clean skin cream container. Place it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Cuticle Softening Cream

1. Add 3 tbsp. paraffin wax, 1/2 cup mineral oil and 1 tbsp. coconut oil to the top pan of a double boiler.

2. Add water to the bottom pan of the double boiler.

3. Heat the pan over low to medium heat until the water begins to simmer.

4. Place the top pan into the bottom pan and stir the ingredients together with a wooden spoon as they heat up.

5. Remove the double boiler from the heat when the ingredients are completely melted and mixed together.

6. Stir in 1 tbsp. glycerin and mix well. Let the mixture cool, then pour it into a bowl.

7. Dip a cotton ball or swab into the cream and smooth it onto your cuticles.

8. Pour or scoop the excess cream into a lidded glass or plastic container. Store it in the refrigerator; this will keep it fresh and allow it to thicken.

Tips & Warnings

• Use caution when heating wax and oils, as they can cause serious burns.

References

• Pioneer Thinking: Cuticle Softener Recipe
• Kinderinfo: Cuticle Cream Recipe