Since ancient times, women have cared for the beauty of their hands by creating their own manicure recipes. Today, in our fast-paced lives, we often resort to quick solutions like gel polish to achieve perfect nails. However, frequent use of harsh chemicals and exposure to UV rays can lead to serious issues such as thinning, brittleness, color changes, and even allergic reactions.
Brittle nails, dry cuticles, and slow growth are common problems that can cause discomfort. Base and essential oils are nature’s gifts as they offer a gentle and effective solution to these issues by deeply nourishing the nails and stimulating their natural protective mechanisms.
What’s the difference between base and essential oils?
Base oils are extracted from plant seeds, nuts, or fruits through pressing. They have an oily texture and can be applied directly to the skin, hair, and nails. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and unsaturated fatty acids, base oils nourish and moisturise the skin and nails. They serve as the base in which we dilute the essential oils while softening the skin and creating a protective layer.
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts obtained through steam distillation, cold pressing, or other methods. They contain volatile organic compounds that give plants their characteristic aroma and therapeutic properties. Essential oils are lighter and more liquid. They are much more concentrated than base oils and should always be diluted with a base oil before used directly onto our skin or hair. With their antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and circulation-boosting properties, essential oils can work wonders for nail health.
Base oils for the perfect manicure
Base oils are natural, nutrient-rich oils used as a base for diluting essential oils or for standalone skincare for skin and nails. Here are three of the most popular base oils for nail care:
Camellia Oil is a true elixir for healthy and beautiful nails. Often referred to as “the geisha’s oil”, it has been used in Asia for centuries to maintain skin and hair in perfect condition. Thanks to its unique composition, it offers exceptional benefits for nail care too:
- Deep Hydration: Rich in oleic acid, Camellia Oil penetrates deeply into the nail plate, providing intense hydration. This prevents dryness and brittleness, making nails more elastic and resistant to cracking.
- Strengthening the Nail Plate: Regular use strengthens the nail plate, reducing the risk of peeling and breakage.
- Stimulating Growth: Enhances blood circulation in the nail area, promoting growth and strengthening nails.
- Softening Cuticles: Softens and nourishes cuticles, preventing the formation of hardened skin layer around the nail.
Jojoba Oil has a unique composition similar to the skin’s sebum, balancing oils in nails and cuticles. It softens cuticles, prevents nail splitting, and creates a protective layer over the nail plate.
Sweet Almond Oil is rich in vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids. It deeply nourishes nails, stimulates growth, and soothes irritated cuticles. It also has a softening effect, making it ideal for cuticle massage.
Essential oils for healthy and beautiful manicure
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts with powerful therapeutic properties. When used correctly, they can make a significant difference in nail health. Here are three essential oils particularly beneficial for nail care:
- Lavender Oil: Known for its soothing and antiseptic properties, lavender oil aids in healing damaged nails and cuticles. It also stimulates nail growth and has antifungal action, making it ideal for preventing infections.
- Eucalyptus Oil: With strong antiseptic properties, eucalyptus oil helps combat nail infections and alleviates inflammation. It also boosts circulation, aiding in faster healing of damaged nails.
- Rosemary Oil: Believed to stimulate circulation, rosemary oil nourishes the nail plate and accelerates nail growth. It also has antiseptic properties and can help combat bacteria and fungi.
How to use essential oils for nails?
By combining base and essential oils, you can create personalised nail care blends tailored to your individual needs:
- Dilution: Always dilute essential oils with a base oil before applying to the nails.
- Massage: Add a few drops of the blend to cuticles and gently massage.
- Soak: Add a few drops of the blend to warm, salty water and soak your nails for 15-20 minutes.
Important: Perform a patch test before use. If irritation occurs, discontinue use
DIY nail mask recipes
Homemade nail masks using base and essential oils are a great way to provide gentle natural care for your nails. These masks deeply nourish, soften, and strengthen nails while soothing cuticles. Here are a few simple and effective recipes:
- Moisturizing Mask with Camellia and Lavender Oil
- Strengthening Mask with Jojoba and Rosemary Oil
- Antiseptic Mask with Sweet Almond and Eucalyptus Oil
- Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of base oil
- 1-2 drops of essential oil (depending on your sensitivity)
- Preparation: Mix the ingredients in a small bowl.
- Application: Apply the mixture to the nails and cuticles, gently massage, and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water and soap.
For better results, consider wearing cotton gloves after applying the mask. Repeat 2-3 times a week for stronger results.
Ready to try natural nail care?
Using base and essential oils for nails is one of the most natural and effective ways to achieve healthy, shiny, and beautiful nails. Through regular oil care, you:
- Deeply Nourish: Oils deliver essential vitamins, minerals, and unsaturated fatty acids that strengthen and stimulate growth.
- Moisturize and Soften: Dry and cracked nails become a thing of the past. Oils intensely hydrate and soften nails and cuticles.
- Protect from External Factors: Oils create a protective layer on the nails, shielding them from environmental damage.
- Soothe Irritations: Oils have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects, alleviating irritations and soothing cuticles.
- Boost Confidence: Beautiful and healthy nails are an integral part of a well-groomed appearance and can help you feel more confident.
Create your own blends, experiment with different combinations, and enjoy the process. Share your results and favorite recipes with us!
