Best Softening Cuticle Oils of 2026

Charlotte Powell Avatar
Charlotte Powell
Last Updated: 2 Feb 2026

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Softening cuticle oils are a type of beauty product designed to moisturise and nourish the skin around the nails. These oils typically contain a range of natural ingredients such as essential oils, vitamins, and plant extracts that work together to hydrate and soften the cuticles. They are easy to apply and can be used regularly to keep the cuticles looking healthy and feeling soft. Softening cuticle oils are a great addition to any beauty routine and can help to prevent dryness, cracking, and other common issues associated with nail care.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

essie Apricot Nail and Cuticle Oil Treatment Cover #TOP 1
essie Apricot Nail and Cuticle Oil Treatment
ftb score rating icon 9.8
essie Apricot Cuticle Oil Treatment for Manicure Cover #TOP 2
essie Apricot Cuticle Oil Treatment for Manicure
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Makartt Nourishing Cuticle Oil Pens Set Cover #TOP 3
Makartt Nourishing Cuticle Oil Pens Set
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 3 Softening Cuticle Oils

essie Apricot Nail and Cuticle Oil Treatment

9490002110
13.5 ml (Pack of 1)
essie Apricot Nail and Cuticle Oil Treatment Cover
essie Apricot Nail and Cuticle Oil Treatment, Nail Care Nourishing, Softening, Moisturizing Apricot Cuticle Oil For Dry and Brittle Hands and Nails, On a Roll, 13.5 ml

The essie Apricot Cuticle Oil offers a convenient solution for those seeking hydration and care for their nails and cuticles. Its new mess-free, massaging roll-on applicator allows you to easily apply the oil on the go, ensuring your nails receive nourishment whenever needed. With a 97 percent natural, vegan formula, you can feel good about using a product that's gentle on both your skin and the environment. The quick-absorbing and intensely conditioning properties make it perfect for tackling dry and brittle hands and nails, bringing them back to life effortlessly.

What We Like
Mess-free roll-on applicator
97% natural and vegan
Quick absorbing formula
Intensely conditions nails
Convenient for on-the-go use
#TOP 2

essie Apricot Cuticle Oil Treatment for Manicure

3600531511630
13.5 ml (Pack of 1)
essie Apricot Cuticle Oil Treatment for Manicure Cover
Essie Nail and Cuticle Oil Treatment, Nail Care Nourishing, Softening, Moisturising Apricot Cuticle Oil For Dry and Brittle Hands and Nails, Heal & Repair At Home Manicure Oil 13.5ml

essie Cuticle Oil is designed to soften and moisturise your cuticles, making it an essential part of your at-home manicure routine. Infused with nourishing apricot oil, this treatment creates the perfect base for your manicure, ensuring your nails look their best. The 97% natural formula gives you peace of mind, knowing you're using high-quality ingredients. Additionally, the Jojoba oil in this product intensely conditions your cuticle skin, making your manicure experience easier and more enjoyable.

What We Like
Softens and moisturises cuticles
97% natural ingredients
Intensely conditions cuticles
Salon-quality at home
#TOP 3

Makartt Nourishing Cuticle Oil Pens Set

5 ml (Pack of 3)
Makartt Nourishing Cuticle Oil Pens Set Cover
Makartt Cuticle Oil Pens - Nourishing Cuticle Oil for Nail Strengthener, Moisturizing, Natural Ingredients Softener, Nail Oil Cuticle for Repairing Cracked and Dry, Ideal Cuticle Care Set 3PCS

The Makartt Cuticle Oil Pens provide an easy and effective way to care for your nails. With three delightful flavours—Rose, Lavender, and Flavorless—these pens are packed with natural ingredients that deeply hydrate and strengthen your nails. Simply twist the tube and brush the oil around your nails for soft, healthy cuticles. Their portable design makes them perfect for use at home or on the go. Applying this nourishing oil daily can help revive dry, cracked nails, making it a convenient addition to your nail care routine.

What We Like
Natural, non-toxic ingredients
Portable and easy to apply
Promotes healthy nail growth
Ideal for all nail types
Perfect gift for any occasion
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our softening cuticle oil research, we found 143 softening cuticle oil products and shortlisted 3 quality products. We collected and analyzed 79,385 customer reviews through our big data system to write the softening cuticle oils list. We found that most customers choose softening cuticle oils with an average price of £6.76.

The softening cuticle oils are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of softening cuticle oils, including essie, Makartt.

Written by
Charlotte Powell Avatar

Charlotte Powell is a dermatologist and a licensed cosmetologist from Westminster, London. However, she was first a cosmetologist from London Beauty Training School. According to Charlotte, she needed better insight into the human skin, hence the dermatology degree. Long before she acquired her degree, she wrote and edited articles, eBooks, and editorials for companies and websites. Charlotte combines her skill and knowledge in providing DIY Beauty tips amongst other fashion related topics.