Shopping People Tested The 12 Best Cuticle Oils of 2023 for Ultra-Nourished Nails, Tested and Reviewed Our top pick is the Sally Hansen Treatment Cuticle Rehab for its strengthening and conditioning effects and affordable price tag By Jessie Quinn Published on May 16, 2023 06:15 AM Share Tweet Pin Email In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews Things to Consider How We Tested FAQ Why Trust PEOPLE? What Is PEOPLE Tested? We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. People / Alli Waataja The cuticles (along with the skin around the nail bed) are super susceptible to dryness, which is why using cuticle oil is highly recommended by nail experts. Often formulated with ultra-nourishing oils, cuticle oils don’t just hydrate the cuticle and skin — they also promote healthy and strong nails, too. “Cuticle oil is essential in keeping your skin and your nail plate hydrated,” says Kristen Valdez-Dougherty, a San Francisco-based nail artist. Just like the complexion, hydrated nail beds have a more supple and healthy look. However, Valdez-Dougherty says it’s not all about looks as cuticle oil can also play an essential role in combatting uncomfortable side effects of dry skin on the hands and nails. “Hangnails are the first sign of dry skin, which could become painfully irritated, or even infected,” she explains. “Hydrated cuticles are your first line of defense to prevent that discomfort.” Whether you wear natural nails or go for enhancements like gels and acrylics, Elle Gerstein, a celebrity nail artist who has worked with Blake Lively, Mariah Carey, and Kelly Ripa, says cuticle oil is a key component of nail care, similar to applying serums and moisturizers to the skin. “It helps maintain the strength of the nail while delivering hydration which promotes flexibility,” she tells PEOPLE. “Your nails are like a sponge — when they’re dry, they crack,” Gerstein explains, noting that the best time to apply cuticle oil is after coming in contact with water, since it can help lock in moisture. Without flexibility, nails can become prone to breakage and might not bond as well with nail polish, gel, acrylic, or other nail enhancements and applications. When it comes to cuticle oil, there’s just one problem: There are so many options to choose from. To narrow down your search — and help you choose cuticle oils that actually work — we researched and tested dozens of formulas to find the best cuticle oils to find the ones worth buying. Keep reading for PEOPLE’s picks of the best cuticle oils. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Sally Hansen Cuticle Rehab at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall, Runner Up: L'Occitane Shea Nail And Cuticle Oil at Loccitane.com Jump to Review Best Budget: Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil at Amazon Jump to Review Best Hydrating: Cuccio Milk and Honey Revitalizing Cuticle Oil at Amazon Jump to Review Best Oil: OPI ProSpa Nail & Cuticle Oil at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Nail Growth: Olive & June Cuticle Serum Duo at Oliveandjune.com Jump to Review Best Strengthening: Deborah Lippmann It's A Miracle Pen at Amazon Jump to Review Best with Essential Oil: Tenoverten The Rose Oil Cuticle Oil at Amazon Jump to Review Best Pen: Candy X Paints Renew Delicate Cuticle Glow at Candyxpaints.com Jump to Review Best for Dry Cuticles: Orly Argan Oil Cuticle Drops at Walmart Jump to Review Best Overall Sally Hansen Treatment Cuticle Rehab 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon View On Target View On Walmart Our Ratings Application 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 4/5 Efficacy 5/5 Pros Comparable to more expensive cuticle oils, but costs less than $10 Formulated with rose and jasmine extracts, the cuticle oil strengthens the nails while providing a deep conditioning effect Includes vitamin E, which is healing, especially if you have little cuts around the cuticles and nails Specifically formulated to reduce breakage and, after regular use, we noticed our nails weren’t as brittle Cons Takes about five minutes to fully absorb, which is longer than some others we tested For the best drugstore cuticle oil, we recommend the Sally Hansen Treatment Cuticle Rehab, which is formulated with healing vitamin E for strengthening the nails and treating the skin around the nails. The drugstore cuticle oil also has rose and jasmine extracts which work together to strengthen the nails and provide a deep conditioning effect that, with regular use, can reduce breakage and reverse signs of brittleness, which we found to be true, as our nails were very dry, brittle, and prone to peeling at the beginning of the testing period. In addition to these perks, we also noticed that the cuticle oil helped address some pesky dry skin and flaking around the nail beds, which improved the overall appearance of our manicure. A little bit goes a long way with this cuticle oil, which only adds to its already great value. The only downside we found when testing this cuticle oil is that it took longer to absorb than other cuticle oils we tested — this one will take about five minutes to fully absorb, so keep that in mind if you're wanting to use it on the go. Price at time of publish: $7.19 (orig. $17.49) Size: 0.29 oz. | Star Ingredients: Jasmine extracts, rose extracts, vitamin E | Usage: Brush-on and rub in The 7 Best At-Home Gel Nail Polish Kits of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Overall, Runner Up L'Occitane Shea Nail And Cuticle Oil 5 Sephora View On Loccitane.com View On Macy's View On Sephora Our Ratings Application 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Efficacy 5/5 Pros Applicator brush makes applying the formula simple and effective and ensures you don’t waste any product Fast-absorbing, so you don’t have to worry about having greasy fingers after applying With regular use, we noticed a significant difference in our nail and cuticle health Gentle enough for sensitive skin, including those with eczema Cons A little pricey for cuticle oil (though not the most expensive option on our list) If you want a cuticle oil that is a little more on the luxe side of the spectrum, the L'Occitane Shea Nail And Cuticle Oil features a potent mix of oils, including shea oil, apricot oil, and sweet almond oil, which work together to target dehydrated and dry skin with an intense conditioning effect. When testing this product, we were immediately obsessed with the applicator brush, which made applying the formula to our nail beds super easy and made it possible to not waste any product (which we appreciated, considering this isn’t the cheapest cuticle oil on our list). We also loved how the formula felt on our skin and found that it has a very gentle ingredient makeup, which is safe enough for sensitive skin including eczema. Price at time of publish: $20 Size: 0.25 oz. | Star Ingredients: Shea oil, apricot oil, sweet almond oil | Usage: Brush-on Best Budget Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil 4.9 Amazon View On Amazon View On Target View On Walmart Our Ratings Application 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 4.7/5 Efficacy 5/5 Pros We could easily control the amount of product by wiping off some of the brush on the sides of the bottle Helps promote strong and healthy nails and, with regular use, we noticed our nails weren’t as brittle Formulated with apricot kernel, aloe, and vitamin E, the cuticle oil is ultra-hydrating Cons Takes a little bit of time to absorb, but that is relatively normal for cuticle oil When it comes to the best cuticle oil, the Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail & Cuticle Oil takes the cake. This cheap drugstore formula is comparable to its luxe counterparts, thanks to its deeply nourishing formula that includes vitamin E, apricot kernel, and aloe. Upon first testing this product, we were thrilled to find out that you actually have a lot of control with the application, since it comes in a nail polish-like bottle where you can easily wipe some of the cuticle oil on the sides of the bottle to get the perfect amount. And, with regular use, we noticed that our nails and cuticles weren’t just hydrated, but the brittleness we once experienced was basically all gone by the end of the testing period. While it’s worth mentioning that it takes a little bit of time to absorb, the amount of time felt relatively normal for cuticle oil, so it’s definitely not a dealbreaker. Price at time of publish: $5.68 (orig. $6.31) Size: 0.45 oz. | Star Ingredients: Vitamin E, apricot kernel, aloe | Usage: Brush-on and massage People / Christina Lomonaco People / Christina Lomonaco The 7 Best Tweezers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best Hydrating Cuccio Milk and Honey Revitalizing Cuticle Oil 4.6 Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Jcpenney.com Our Ratings Application 4.5/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Efficacy 4/5 Pros Ultra-nourishing formula, even on thick and stubborn cuticles Amazing texture that feels more like a dry oil versus wet, so it doesn’t make a mess Dries super quickly Cons Product comes out of the dropper very quickly, which took some getting used to While all of the cuticle oils on our list are hydrating, the Cuccio Milk and Honey Revitalizing Oil from Amazon is our top pick because it is formulated with a blend of nourishing ingredients — including vitamin E and sunflower oil — that are powerful enough to treat thick, stubborn, and dehydrated cuticles. In addition to providing effective hydration, we also love the texture because, despite having oils in the formula, it has more of a dry finish versus a wet one, so you don’t have to worry too much about it making a mess. We did notice that it comes out of the dropper rather quickly, which took some getting used to, but once we did we appreciated the efficiency. Price at time of publish: $8.01 (orig. $13.98) Size: 2.5, 0.5, and 8 oz. | Star Ingredients: Vitamin E, sunflower oil | Usage: Drop onto nail beds and massage People / Sarah Felbin Best Oil OPI ProSpa Nail & Cuticle Oil 4.4 Amazon View On Amazon View On Target View On Walmart Our Ratings Application 4/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 3.5/5 Efficacy 5/5 Pros With grape seed oil in its formula, this cuticle oil can reverse brittleness and strengthen nails Despite being enriched with a collection of oils, it has a lightweight formula Dropper applicator makes it easy to get an accurate application Cons It doesn’t absorb as well as others we tested For an oil that targets both the nails and the nail bed with a rich concoction of oils, we love the OPI Nail and Cuticle Oil. Formulated with grape seed, sesame, kukui, sunflower, and cupuaçu oils, this deep-conditioning cuticle oil can actually reverse signs of brittleness and also strengthen nails, in addition to protecting against dehydration. After testing out this OPI cuticle oil, we found that it worked effectively at hydrating our nails but also noticed a significant change in the overall health of our nail beds and how strong our nails felt after regular use. With all of the oil in the formula, we found that it doesn’t absorb as well as some other options on our list, however, that is to be expected with a rich formula like this. Price at time of publish: $10.89 Size: 0.29, 0.5, and 0.95 oz. | Star Ingredients: Grape seed, sesame, kukui, sunflower, and cupuaçu oils | Usage: Drop onto nail beds and massage People / Elise Wojczyk Wang Best for Nail Growth Olive & June Cuticle Serum Duo 4.9 Olive & June View On Oliveandjune.com Our Ratings Application 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 4.7/5 Efficacy 4.7/5 Pros Formulated with a powerful mix of botanical oils that deeply hydrate and soothe chapped cuticles With the inclusion of jojoba oil, it promotes nail growth (and we experienced results!) Cuticle oil absorbs in under 30 seconds, so it’s a lot more quick-drying compared to other formulas Promotes nail growth, especially after nail extensions Cons Twist applicator takes a little while before the cuticle oil comes to the surface When testing the Olive & June Cuticle Serum Duo, we removed our nail extensions to get the full experience (and in hopes of it effectively reviving our damage-prone nail beds). Formulated with a blend of botanical oils — including avocado, apricot kernel, jojoba seed, and sunflower seed oil — this nail care product is not only hydrating but is jam-packed with tons of nutrients that soothe, protect, and revive the nails. Upon testing this product out, we were most impressed by how well it strengthened our nail beds and, over time, resulted in some noticeable growth. Also, we loved how easy the applicator brush was to use, though we didn’t love the twist-up design as it took a little while for the oil to come to the surface. Price at time of publish: $30 Star Ingredients: Avocado, apricot kernel, jojoba seed, and sunflower seed oil | Usage: Twist the pen, then dab onto cuticles and massage People / Elise Wojczyk Wang People / Elise Wojczyk Wang Best Strengthening Deborah Lippmann It's A Miracle Intense Therapy Cuticle Oil Pen 4.8 Amazon View On Amazon View On Deborahlippmann.com View On Macy's Our Ratings Application 5/5 Appearance 4.7/5 Absorption 4.7/5 Efficacy 4.7/5 Pros Blend of shea butter and vitamin E help prevent the splitting of the nails Applicator brush is ultra-precise and helps prevent a potential mess Soothes flaky and dehydrated cuticles Cons Some might find the fragrance too strong Our top pick for the best strengthening cuticle oil is the Deborah Lippmann It’s a Miracle Pen, which is formulated with a blend of shea butter and vitamin E to prevent the splitting of nails. While testing this nail product, we found that the formula lived up to its expectation and, after just a few weeks, our nails were noticeably stronger and more sturdy. The application process was also super easy since the built-in brush (which sort of resembles a twist-up lip gloss) helps with precision and prevents the oil from going everywhere. And, in addition to stronger nails, we also saw that the cuticles and skin around our nail beds were much less dry and dehydrated, and by the end of the testing period, the flakiness we often experienced went away, too. Price at time of publish: $22 Size: 1.2, 2, and 12 oz. | Star Ingredients: Shea butter, vitamin E | Usage: Twist pen and dab onto cuticles; brush onto cuticles and massage People / Rachel Lee Best with Essential Oil Tenoverten The Rose Oil Nourishing Cuticle Oil 4.7 Target View On Amazon View On Target View On Walmart Our Ratings Application 4.7/5 Appearance 4.7/5 Absorption 4.5/5 Efficacy 4.7/5 Pros Formula is enriched with a potent collection of botanical oils that nourish, protect, and heal the skin around the nails With its inclusion of jojoba oil, this cuticle oil promotes nail growth With regular use, nails look and feel healthier and more nourished Cons We wish the applicator was a brush, which would make it easier to apply When it comes to cuticle oils, nail experts agree that essential oil is, well, essential to providing nourishment and promoting long and strong nails. Our top pick for the best cuticle oil with essential oils is The Rose Oil from Tenoverten, which is formulated with rose flower, jojoba, argan, pomegranate, sweet almond, and hemp seed oils as well as vitamin E. We love this cuticle oil because it’s formulated with 100 percent natural ingredients that all boast the power to strengthen nail beds, support growth, and protect and heal the skin around the nails for less flaky and dehydrated skin. After using this cuticle oil regularly, we found that our nails looked significantly healthier than before we added it to our routine. Price at time of publish: $31.99 Size: 0.27 oz. | Star Ingredients: Rose flower, jojoba, argan, pomegranate, sweet almond, and hemp seed oils, vitamin E | Usage: Dab onto cuticles and massage Best Pen Candy X Paints Renew Delicate Cuticle Glow 4.9 Thirteen Lune View On Candyxpaints.com View On Thirteenlune.com Our Ratings Application 4.7/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Efficacy 4.7/5 Pros Applicator brush is very easy to use and gives you a precise application Includes squalane oil, which is one of the best oils for nourishing cuticles Made our nails look refreshed and helped get rid of dry skin with regular use Cons Takes a couple of minutes to absorb, (but once it absorbs, it’s not super greasy) Pens are one of the most convenient ways to apple cuticle oil in a mess-free manner. For the best cuticle oil pen, we love the Candy X Paints Renew Delicate Cuticle Glow, which features some amazing nail care ingredients, including squalane, which is one of the best oils for nourishing cuticles. It also includes pumpkin oil which is packed with nutrients that promote nail growth, reduce breakage, and soothe inflamed cuticles. After regular use, the nail oil made our manicure look more refreshed and helped get rid of dry skin. Price at time of publish: $20 Star Ingredients: Maracuja, pumpkin, sunflower, and squalane oils | Usage: Twist the brush and apply to cuticles People / Stephanie Lewis People / Stephanie Lewis Best for Dry Cuticles Orly Argan Oil Cuticle Drops 4.8 Amazon View On Walmart View On Beyondpolish.com View On Jcpenney.com Our Ratings Application 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 4.7/5 Efficacy 4.5/5 Pros Easy to add a droplet to the nail bed without making a mess Argan oil provides effective nourishment that heals dry cuticles We found our cuticles looked healthy and hydrated with this oil, even during winter Cons Thicker than other formulas we tested, which might be too thick for some preferences If you have dry cuticles, the Argan Oil Cuticle Drops from Orly is our favorite remedy. As the name suggests, these drops are enhanced with argan oil, which can actually heal brittle nails in addition to hydrating. We love this cuticle oil because it has a thicker formula, which provides a deep conditioning effect to the dry cuticles and skin around the nails, even during the dry winter months when our nails have seen better days. The thick oil also makes it easier to apply since it makes little droplets on the nail bed that make it easier to nourish nails without making a mess. Price at time of publish: $8.89 Size: 0.6 oz. | Star Ingredients: Argan oil | Usage: Drop oil on cuticles and massage Best Roll-On Sundari Neem Hand and Cuticle Hand Treatment Oil 4.8 Sundari View On Amazon View On Macy's View On Sundari.com Our Ratings Application 4/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Efficacy 5/5 Pros Cuticle oil is formulated with neem oil, which promotes nail growth Oil helps strengthen brittle nails Absorbs super quickly Roller ball makes it easier to use on the go Cons Formulated with essential oils for fragrance, which some might be more sensitive to Application is almost as important as formula in a cuticle oil, and a roll-on option is one of the most convenient ways to massage oil into nail beds. Our top pick for the best roll-on cuticle oil is the Sundari Neem and Cuticle Hand Treatment Oil because, in addition to its convenient applicator, it’s formulated with neem oil which is connected to nail growth and, after regular use, we totally noticed a difference in our nail length. Additionally, this oil helps strengthen brittle nails for overall nail health, plus it absorbs fast so you don’t have to worry about getting it all over the place. Price at time of publish: $11.99 Size: 0.34 oz. | Star Ingredients: Neem oil | Usage: Roll onto cuticles and massage People / Daniela Galvez People / Daniela Galvez Best Investment Dior Huile Abricot Daily Nutritive Serum 4.9 Neiman Marcus View On Dior.com View On Neiman Marcus View On Saks Fifth Avenue Our Ratings Application 5/5 Appearance 5/5 Absorption 5/5 Efficacy 4.7/5 Pros Luxurious formula matches the higher price tag Formulated with argan oil, vitamin E, and apricot oil, the cuticle treatment heals cracked and dry cuticles and nourishes nail beds Absorbs very well without leaving residue Cons We didn't notice a change in nail growth pace when using this cuticle oil, if that's something you're wanting For a splurge-worthy cuticle oil, we were most impressed by the Huile Abricot Treatment from Dior. This luxe nail product is enhanced with argan oil, vitamin E, and apricot oil, which provide deep nourishment and healing to dry, cracked skin around the nails (including the cuticles), plus have the ability to strengthen the nail bed and prevent brittle nails. After testing this cuticle oil out, our cuticles were significantly more hydrated with a healthier appearance. We also noticed that they took a lot longer to look dry compared to when we didn’t use the oil. Once absorbed, the cuticle oil completely dried without any leftover residue. Price at time of publish: $30 Star Ingredients: Argan oil, vitamin E, and apricot oil | Usage: Drop onto cuticles and massage The 8 Best Press-On Nail Sets of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Things to Consider Before Buying Cuticle Oils Ingredients When shopping for cuticle oils, both Valdez-Dougherty and Gerstein say the ingredients — particularly the types of oils included in a formula — are most important. “Look for oils such as jojoba and vitamins like A, D, and E,” says Gerstein. Other cuticle oil ingredients such as apricot oil, sunflower seed oil, argan oil, hemp seed oil, sweet almond oil, shea oil, squalane, and aloe can also provide deep nourishment and hydration to the cuticles and nail beds, helping to strengthen them with every use. The Applicator In addition to ingredients, Valdez-Dougherty says to consider how the cuticle oil is applied and to “make sure it has an easy-to-use applicator,” which can not only help prevent mess and ensure it’s a breeze to use, but it can also make it more enjoyable and satisfying to apply, which Valdez-Dougherty says will likely inspire you to use it more frequently and, therefore, reap the benefits of cuticle oil. “If you enjoy the experience of moisturizing your cuticles, you’re more likely to do it — then the results will speak for themselves.” Essential Oils As far as scent is concerned, Valdez-Dougherty says to go for essential oils over synthetic fragrances, since fragrances can cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin or sinuses. This is also a good idea for those with pets since animals are often more sensitive to fragrance and might experience irritation if you use cuticle oil and then pet or snuggle with them. How We Tested To find the best cuticle oils, we researched dozens of formulas, considering everything from the ingredients to the type of applicator to convenience of use. Then we conducted a thorough test of our top picks, making sure to follow the instructions for use to gauge how each formula lived up to its claims and labeling expectations. Before applying the oil, we made note of the condition of their nails, then applied the product and examined how it affected the cuticles and nail beds. From there, we conducted an overnight test to see if the cuticle oils’ effects were long-lasting. We repeated this every day for two weeks before compiling all of our findings together, examining the data, and handpicking each cuticle oil on this list that met the product expectations (and, in some cases, exceeded). We rated each cuticle oil on a 1 to 5 scale based on each testing attribute — the formulas with the highest ratings overall earned a spot on this list of the best cuticle oils. Frequently Asked Questions What is the best oil to use on your cuticles? After testing dozens of formulas, we found that the best cuticle oil overall is the Sally Hansen Treatment Cuticle Rehab, which helps promote strong and healthy nails with apricot kernel, aloe, and vitamin E. Our runner-up for the best overall, the L'Occitane Shea Nail And Cuticle Oil, is another excellent choice if you’re looking for a cuticle oil that is gentle enough for sensitive skin, including those with eczema.Our top pick for the best budget-friendly cuticle oil is the Sally Hansen Vitamin E Nail and Cuticle Oil, which costs less than $10 and features an ingredient lineup of jasmine extracts, rose extracts, vitamin E to deep condition the nail beds. This is an excellent choice for those looking for cuticle hydration on a budget For cuticle oils that are easier to use when on the go, we love the Sundari Neem and Cuticle Hand Treatment Oil, which has a roll-on applicator and the Candy X Paints Renew Delicate Cuticle Glow, which has a pen applicator. What is the best cuticle oil to help nails grow? Cuticle oil is essential for maintaining strong and healthy nails and, depending on the formula, can also encourage nail growth. Our top pick for the best cuticle oil for nail growth is the Olive & June Cuticle Serum Duo because it has jojoba oil in its formula, which promotes nail growth. To keep long nails strong, we also recommend the Deborah Lippmann It's A Miracle Pen, which is our top pick for the best-strengthening cuticle oil, thanks to its shea butter and vitamin E formula which prevents nail splitting. Another cuticle oil to put on your nail growth radar is the Sundari Neem and Cuticle Hand Treatment Oil. This cuticle oil is formulated with neem oil, which is a natural ingredient that promotes nail growth. Does cuticle oil actually work? “With all the hand washing and sanitizing we all do on a regular basis, I see a clear difference between my clients who use cuticle oil and those who don’t,” says Valdez-Dougherty. She explains that cuticle oil not only works but regular application can result in barely needing cuticle maintenance when getting a manicure. In addition to nourishment, cuticle oil can actually promote better adhesion to nail products, which is highly beneficial. “My clients who don’t moisturize, [have nails that] tend to pull away from the product I’ve applied, which means bacteria can get trapped between the nail and the enhancement.” Why Trust PEOPLE? Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. With over a decade of beauty writing under her belt and as someone with super dry skin, Jessie knows how important cuticle oil is to overall nail care. For this piece, she reached out to top nail experts Kristen Valdez-Dougherty and Elle Gerstein to learn more about why cuticle oil is so necessary and the best oils to use on your cuticles. She then reviewed the PEOPLE Tested results to curate this list of the best cuticle oils, based on their real-world insights and experiences. What Is PEOPLE Tested? We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs. But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square. In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase. Up Next: The 12 Best White Nail Polishes of 2023, Tested and Reviewed