Nightly Nail Oiling Routine for Healthier Nails

Dermatologist Jessica Wu, MD, recommends a simple nightly nail oiling ritual to improve nail health. Nails are made of keratin, and oiling helps seal and soften the outer layer, preventing peeling and splitting. Benefits include increased flexibility, smoother surface, and better attention to nail changes that may indicate internal health issues. Wu advises using simple, fragrance-free oils like jojoba, castor, sweet almond, avocado, or coconut, avoiding irritants. Apply one drop per nail at night, massaging into cuticles. Results: cuticles soften within a week, peeling improves in a month, full transformation in three to six months. A balanced diet with adequate protein is also important. The article lists recommended products from Vogue.