Best Oils for your nails (2024)

Natural botanical oils are often used in cosmetic formulation as they provide a variety of benefits to the skin, nails and hair. These oils are firstly known for their moisturizing properties because of their rich concentration of omega 3,6, and 9 fatty acids which are an essential component of the skin’s lipid layer. The fatty acids help to soften and smooth skin and nail layers by filling the gaps between the cells, which reduces roughness and forms a protective barrier to prevent transepidermal water loss and lock in moisture, keeping nails from getting dry, brittle and being prone to breakage. Botanical oils are also rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that all act to increase strength, growth and production of keratin, which is the basic building block of nails and hair. Vitamins like vitamin E, which are found naturally in botanical oils, act as antioxidants, which protect against oxidative stress and damage from either internal or external factors that we encounter every day. These incredible plant-powered oils help to improve the overall health and appearance of skin and nail fibers, while fundamentally working to protect, strengthen and grow them!

Discover more about the oils Manucurist uses in our products to offer functional, high-quality formulas that support healthy nails and hands.

Sweet Almond Oil

Great for soothing and healing dry, cracked skin, Sweet Almond oil is rich in vitamins and minerals such as zinc , which strengthens the nail plate, provides antifungal protection, and promotes healthy growth by supporting keratin production, as well as, potassium which can prevent damage by increasing nail flexibility, and promote healthy circulation, which is essential in the delivery of nutrients to the nail bed. Potassium is also considered an Find it in Manucurist’s Active Glow, Green Oil, and Green™ Acetone-Free Nourishing Remover.

Best Oils for your nails (1)

Active Glow contains Sweet Almond Oil which soothes and protects nail fibers

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Sunflower Oil

Featured in our Universal Rose Balm for hands, lips and nails, Hand Creams, and 5.5 Base Coat Treatment, sunflower oil is rich in an omega-6 fatty acid called linoleic acid that helps to moisturize and nourish skin. It also helps to protect from free-radical damage by containing high amounts of Vitamin E , a powerful antioxidant. Finally, it offers anti-inflammatory properties which makes it ideal for those with sensitive skin. When used on the nails, they become stronger and are protected against becoming dry and brittle.

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Base 5.5 reinforces keratin, prevents nail damage and features Sunflower Oil

Kukui Nut Oil

This oil comes from the Kukui Nut which grows on the Kukui Tree (Candlenut Tree) that is native to Hawaii. This is the same tree that produces the blossoms typically used for Hawaiian leis which are very significant to Hawiaan culture as they are seen to provide renewal, protection and enlightenment. This oil provides a plethora of benefits including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, softening, soothing, deep hydration, and prevention of transepidermal water loss. Manucurist uses this amazing active in our best-selling Green Oil to soothe and soften cuticles, and protect nail fibers.

Passion fruit Oil

The seeds of passion fruits provide this precious oil that offers a plethora of benefits to the skin and nails. This oil is particularly concentrated with linoleic acid (Omega-6) and oleic acid (Omega-9), which help to moisturize without clogging pores. It also is high in antioxidants like vitamin C as well as flavonoids, which are a group of plant compounds found in vegetables, grains, fruits, tea and certain herbs. These antioxidants protect the nail fibers and skin cells against damage, helping to improve their strength and longevity. Passion fruit oil is also loved for its anti-inflammatory, nourishing, brightening, and regenerative properties. It is featured in Manucurist’s Green Oil, where it helps to form a protective barrier on the nails and surrounding cuticle skin, shielding from environmental stressors and locking in moisture.

Baobab Oil

Extracted from the Baobab tree, referred to as the “Tree of life” in the African continent due to its over 300 life sustaining uses of its bark and fruit, Baobab oil is packed full of vitamins and omega-3s which can help provide moisture, protection and revitalization. This old has many uses in the beauty world including treating eczema & dandruff, dulling dark spots, fighting free-radical damage, increasing collagen, and improving skin barrier functions. Most importantly for the Green Oil, it strengthens nail keratin fibers and has the ability to heal cracked and dry nails due to its high levels of protein and calcium.

Walnut Oil

High in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, walnut oil features anti-inflammatory properties and is known to revitalize skin and nail fibers leaving them nourished and hydrated. Find it in the Green Oil blend.

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Green Oil offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and nourishing properties due to Kukui Nut Oil, Passion Fruit Oit, Baobab Oil & Walnut Oil

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Coconut Oil

Popular for its high level of fatty-acid content , coconut oil is intensely moisturizing and hydrating for the skin and nail keratin fibers as it helps to strengthen the barrier that prevents water loss. In addition it has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that protect against free-radical damage and infections. Coconut oil is featured in Manucurist’s Green Oil, Botanical Soaps and Universal Rose Balm.

Damask Rose Oil

This oil not only brings a beautiful rosy scent to products, but it also acts to brighten and soothe skin, even out and tone complexions, protect against bacteria, and improve skin elasticity due to its high levels of vitamin C. Find it featured in Manucurist Botanical Soaps, Botanical Creams, and Universal Rose Balm.

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Universal Rose Balm contains Damask Rose Oil and Coconut Oil to help intensely moisturize, soothe and nourish hands, nails and cuticles, and sweetly perfume them

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Olive Oil

Recently seen in a viral tiktok trend where nails are soaked to promote hydration and strengthening, Olive oil is high in Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, and fatty acids like oleic acid, linoleic acid and palmitic acid which act as deep moisturizing agents to prevent breakage and help to promote nail growth. Find it featured in our Botanical Soaps where it supplies moisture to prevent hands and nails from drying after washing.

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Olive Oil in Manucurist Botanical Soaps keep nails and skin moisturized and hydrated

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Castor Seed Oil

Rich in vitamins and offering anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, castor seed oil is used to prevent and heal brittle nails and dry cuticles. It has also been shown to heal nail injuries such as scratches and treat white spots due to vitamin-deficiency. Castor oil is featured in the Green Flash™ Gentle Acetone-Free Remover, which will remove Green Flash™ LED polish in just 1 minute without the need for drilling which causes damage to the nail.

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Green Flash™ Gentle Acetone-Free Remover contains Castor Seed Oil to soothe and treat nails during the removal process

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Moringa Seed Oil

High in iron, vitamin C and all 9 essential amino acids, this oil repairs damage and strengthens nail fibers while deeply nourishing and improving the appearance of lines and damage. Find it in the Green Smoothing Base which is designed to smooth ridged or uneven nails and provide a slight tint to correct any imperfections.

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Smoothing Base contains Moringa Seed Oil which deeply nourishes and improves the appearance of lines or ridges on the nails

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Colza Oil

High in Omega-6s which help maintain the moisture barrier for nails and skin. Used to nourish and moisturize in all Manucurist Hand Creams.

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Hand Cream features Colza Oil to protect the natural skin’s moisture barrier and ensure hydration

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Best Oils for your nails (2024)

FAQs

What is the best oil to put on your nails? ›

She recommends oils like coconut, walnut seed and avocado to nourish brittle nails, as well as baobab seed oil, sweet almond oil, and rosemary oil, which have antioxidant properties and will help to fight against damage.

Is it good to put oil on your nails? ›

Applying cuticle oil can increase the circulation around your nails, stimulating nail growth. It can also help to protect your nail and cuticle against trauma. The oil can also help improve the health and appearance of your nail. If you paint your nails, cuticle oil can also protect your polish for a lasting shine.

Which vitamin oil is best for nails? ›

As a nail technician, be sure to suggest vitamin E oil to any of your clients who are looking to strengthen and repair their nails. Tell them all about this amazing natural ingredient they can use every day for strong, healthy nails and cuticles.

Which is better for nail growth olive oil or coconut oil? ›

Olive oil is the best when it comes to nail care. Before going to bed, apply warm olive oil to your nails and cuticles and massage gently for 5 minutes. You can also soak your nails in warm olive oil for 15 to 30 minutes once daily to promote nail growth. Coconut oil works really well for healthy nail growth.

What oil grows nails the fastest? ›

Brittle nails are caused by a lack of moisture. Olive oil is rich in vitamin E, which is a natural moisturizer. Olive oil penetrates the nail and promotes quicker and stronger nail growth.

How many times a week should I oil my nails? ›

While you can use cuticle oil as often as you want, Thea Green, founder of Nails. INC tells me it's best to apply cuticle oil at least one or two times a day to reap the full benefits. She recommends massaging a few drops into the nail bed as a part of your daily morning and nighttime routine.

What is the best homemade cuticle oil? ›

Pour 1 tablespoon of sweet almond oil into your nail polish bottle using your small funnel and add a few drops of vitamin E oil as well. Keep the funnel in and add 4 drops of lavender oil and 4 drops of rose geranium oil. Screw your cap back on and shake well to combine.

Is oil or lotion better for nails? ›

According to Monson, “Lotions tend to be lightweight and designed to leave no greasy residue with surface level absorption. Cuticle oil, on the other hand, is almost entirely pure oil for maximum skin penetration and moisturization.” You can technically use both together for double the hydration.

What oil penetrates the nail plate? ›

Jojoba oil is currently one of the best oils for cosmetic purposes. From a chemical point of view, it is a liquid wax that has an almost identical composition to natural sebum produced by our bodies. For this reason, our body can absorb jojoba oil easily and it can penetrate the nail plate the easiest.

Which carrier oil is best for nails? ›

The best carrier oils for nail care include argan, coconut, linseed, sweet almond, hemp seed, sea buckthorn, jojoba, avocado, and wheat germ.

Is coconut oil good for your nails? ›

Coconut oil is very hydrating and can help strengthen your nails and soften your cuticles. Also, it has anti-fungal properties which is great news if you're prone to nail infections. For a nourishing treatment, warm coconut oil for 20 seconds in the microwave and massage into the cuticles before bed.

What is the best oil for hands and nails? ›

Rosehip Oil is a non-greasy emollient that will replenish cracked cuticles and reveal healthy nails. Jojoba Carrier Oil - Abundant in Vitamin E, which replenishes skin and treats weak and brittle nails. Jojoba Oil also helps repair collagen loss within the nail beds, promoting healthy nail growth.

What is the best oil for toenails? ›

Tea tree oil: Also known as melaleuca, tea tree oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties. Apply it to the affected toenail with a cotton swab twice daily. Oregano oil: Oregano oil contains thymol, a plant-based derivative with antifungal and antiseptic properties.

What can I rub into my nails to make them stronger? ›

Say Goodbye To Brittle Nails With These 6 Home Remedies
  1. Coconut Oil Mask. Coconut oil is rich in healthy fatty acids that provide deep moisturisation to the nails. ...
  2. Vitamin E Massage. Vitamin E can make your brittle nails strong and long. ...
  3. Lemon Juice Soak. ...
  4. Tea Tree Oil. ...
  5. Sea Salt Soak. ...
  6. Olive Oil Massage.
Jul 2, 2022

What is good for damaged nails? ›

“I recommend cuticle oil, hand cream, a strengthening base coat, and a keratin nail treatment,” says Graves. “These will keep the cuticles and nails hydrated while also helping to protect and strengthen the nails during the regrowth process.”

Is vaseline good for nails? ›

Cover each nail with a thick coat of something such as Vaseline Original Petroleum Jelly ($2; target.com) or Aquaphor Healing Ointment ($5; target.com). “Applying this occlusive layer seals in the cuticle oil so that it will penetrate deeper and provides a protective barrier to help prevent moisture loss,” explains Dr.

How do I strengthen my nails? ›

Here are 12 tips that you can use to help strengthen your nails in no time.
  1. Take a biotin supplement. ...
  2. Minimize exposure to water. ...
  3. Stay hydrated. ...
  4. Pay attention to your diet. ...
  5. Be careful about the products you use. ...
  6. Avoid using gel or acrylic nails, if possible. ...
  7. Give your nails a break from polish.

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