Evidence supporting the use of: Oil (unspecified)
For the body system: Nails

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Oils—such as olive oil, coconut oil, or other unspecified plant oils—have long been used in traditional beauty and personal care routines to support the health and appearance of nails. Historically, these oils are applied directly to the nails and cuticles to moisturize, prevent splitting, and enhance shine. The use of oils in this manner is rooted in traditional practices from cultures worldwide, particularly for their emollient properties.

Scientifically, there is limited direct evidence that generic "oil" can significantly improve nail strength or growth. However, some clinical and observational studies have noted that oils can help in preventing nail brittleness by improving hydration and reducing water loss from the nail plate and surrounding skin. While oils do not directly affect the nail matrix or growth rate, they can help reduce nail breakage and splitting, indirectly supporting better nail appearance and length over time. Specific oils like jojoba oil and vitamin E oil have some research supporting their use, but evidence for “oil (unspecified)” remains largely traditional and based on empirical use rather than rigorous scientific validation.

In summary, the application of oils to support nail health is justified mainly by tradition and supported by anecdotal reports and some indirect scientific rationale regarding moisturization, but robust scientific evidence is limited.

More about Oil (unspecified)
More about Nails

Other body systems supported by Oil (unspecified)

Blood
Brain
Gastrointestinal Tract
Hair
Heart
Intestinal System
Joints
Nails
Skin

Products containing Oil (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.