5 Dermatologist-Recommended Cuticle Oil Alternatives

Our cuticles are a part of our hands that many of us rarely notice or pay attention to—until they become dry and painful. According to nationally board-certified dermatologist Dr. Annaguanche, there are a number of reasons for this, from the weather to UV nail dryers and more.

Nationally board-certified dermatologist Dr. Onyeka Obioha adds that health issues like eczema or psoriasis can also be to blame.

Cuticle oil is a natural solution for dry cuticles. “Cuticle oil helps lubricate and moisturize the cuticles and provides a barrier against other potential irritants,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lina Weimann, FAAD.

But what if cuticle oil isn’t readily available? We asked Guanche, Obioha, and Weimann for their favorite cuticle oil alternatives. Read on to find out what you can use if you don’t have this staple on hand.

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Vitamin E

Weimann explains that vitamin E, a common ingredient in cuticle oil, softens the cuticles. Additionally, Obioha tells us that vitamin E can “boost nail growth and strengthen nails.”

Guanche says you can even use olive oil because of the vitamin E content, which is a more accessible option since you may already have it on hand.

In addition to bottled vitamin E, vitamin E is often sold in capsule form, which you can open for easy on-the-go use.

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Lanolin

Lanolin is known for its ability to lock in moisture, making it great for cuticles. “Emollient lanolin supports the natural, smooth regeneration of nails,” Obioha says.

That means it prevents nails from drying out while helping them grow and become longer. Lanolin can also be used as a lip balm and treats nipple soreness from breastfeeding, so you won’t be using it for just one purpose, either.

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Avocado Oil

Guanche loves avocado oil as a cuticle moisturizer because, in addition to her love of natural, organic ingredients, it contains “monounsaturated fats,” which can help improve dry cuticles.

She points out that you probably already have it in your kitchen, so you don’t have to buy it separately (which adds to the convenience factor). As for how often to use: “Some people dab oil onto their cuticles every time they wash their hands,” she says. “It’s a personal decision about what works best for you.”

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Coconut Oil

This ubiquitous oil, commonly used in skin and hair care as well as food, has a variety of benefits for your nails. Not only is coconut oil moisturizing, it also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce skin irritation and redness, Wieman tells us. This is especially important if you work with dry nails. “Certain jobs put you at risk for split cuticles,” she says. This includes hairdressers, healthcare workers, mechanics, and others who frequently work with their hands or wash their hands.

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Hyaluronic Acid

If you like a hydrated face, hyaluronic acid is a great ingredient in your skin care regimen. It “effectively draws moisture into the cuticles and nails,” Obioha explains. And because it’s not an oil, it may be easier to apply.

Hyaluronic acid can and should be widely used as a cuticle oil alternative, Obioha tells us. “The more often you use it, the better, up to three times a day, even after every wash of your hands,” she says.

Dry cuticles are painful and keep our hands from looking neat and tidy—something many of us crave. Luckily, you can restore healthy cuticles even if you don’t have cuticle oil on hand. Try vitamin E, avocado oil, lanolin, coconut oil, or hyaluronic acid.

Each of these simple, natural ingredients can have a positive impact on the health of your nails and help provide moisture where you need it. They can even promote nail growth.