Winter may have arrived a little late, but dry skin and cracked cuticles were quick to follow suit. It’s as if that train is never late, but you shouldn’t let the weather dictate the health of your skin or cuticles. It’s not just the weather that threatens cuticle health, though. The gel polish, the glue that adheres fake nails, and even the acetone that is required to remove nail polish leads to incredible dryness, but there is a way to naturally fight back.
There are many carrier oils that are beneficial for the skin, but the recipe in this article calls for avocado, olive, jojoba oils. The reason for using these oils is because they are easily absorbed by the skin, meaning their nourishing properties act quickly. If you aren’t hip to jojoba oil, click here to read about its benefits.
Nail Health
Several factors will influence the health of your nails. A balanced diet ranks high on the list, despite the fact that most people don’t link the food they eat with nail health. Vitamins A, C, D, iron, magnesium, zinc, and biotin are all necessary for healthy nail growth, and a diet that is deficient in these nutrients can result in brittle nails, dry skin, and reduced collagen production.
Great Essential Oils For Your Nails
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil contains antifungal, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties that have been known to reduce mild infections. A lot of people, who have difficulty sleeping, use lavender essential oil, but it can also be used to protect cuticles from bacteria or nail fungus and to promote keratin growth.
Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary is widely used in culinary applications, but the essential oil is an excellent tool to have on hand for universal use. Not only does it improve circulation on the skin, but it also works to restore the natural healthy state of your nails. The antibacterial and antifungal properties work to fight against nail fungus and maintain nail strength.
Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil contains antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties that help to naturally disinfect nails of bacteria. It works to nourish the skin, cuticles, and brighten nails, making them healthier and shinier.
DIY Cuticle Oil
Ingredients:
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon jojoba oil
- 12 drops lavender essential oil
- 12 drops rosemary essential oil
- 12 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions:
- Add all of the ingredients to a glass dropper bottle, screw on the top, and shake it up to combine the oils.
- When you are ready to use it, massage about 3-4 drops across all the cuticles of each hand. It is best to do this at night.