How to Make Your Own Cuticle Oil Pen / Easy Refillable Containers
Dry, cracked cuticles can make even the best manicure look a little sad.
The good news? You can make your own nourishing cuticle oil pens at home for a fraction of the cost — and refill them over and over.
Not only will you save money, but you’ll also know exactly what’s in your product.
This DIY blend uses skin-loving jojoba oil, vitamin E, and a trio of my favorite essential oils to hydrate, protect, and keep your nails looking salon-fresh.
My daughter made me one of these cuticle oil pens years ago, and it’s been the best thing ever.
I keep one in my purse, at my desk, and in my sewing room.
These make wonderful gifts!
Why a Cuticle Oil Pen?
- Mess-free application – The brush tip lets you apply oil exactly where you want it.
- Perfect for on the go – toss it in your purse, desk drawer, or travel bag.
- Refillable – One pen can last a long time if you wash and refill it.
Ingredient Properties
Jojoba Oil:
- Technically, a liquid wax rather than an oil, jojoba is very similar to the skin’s sebum, which means it absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
- Naturally rich in vitamins B and E, as well as zinc and copper, it helps to strengthen nails and deeply moisturize cuticles.
- Has antimicrobial properties that can help protect against minor infections around the nail bed.
Vitamin E Oil:
- A powerful antioxidant that helps repair and protect skin from damage.
- Supports collagen production, which keeps skin around the nails supple.
- Helps seal in moisture to prevent cuticles from drying out.
Lavender Essential Oil:
- Known for its calming, soothing aroma that also relaxes the mind.
- Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help heal tiny cuts or hangnails.
- Gentle enough for daily use, making it perfect for skin care blends.
Rosemary Essential Oil:
- Stimulates blood circulation, promoting healthy nail growth.
- Contains antioxidants that protect nails from free radical damage.
- Adds a refreshing, herbal scent that pairs beautifully with lavender and lemon.
Lemon Essential Oil:
- Brightens the appearance of nails and can help reduce yellowing.
- Has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Provides a fresh, uplifting scent — a perfect mood booster whenever you apply it. (You’re going to love it).
Supplies Needed
- 3 × 5 ml refillable twist-up cuticle oil pens (brush tip style)
- Small mixing container
- Small funnel or dropper
Ingredients (Makes approx. 3 × 5 ml pens)
- 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil - 10 drops of lavender essential oil
- 4 drops rosemary essential oil
- 3 drops of lemon essential oil
Cuticle Oil Pen Instructions
- Mix the oils
In a small bowl or glass measuring cup, combine jojoba oil, vitamin E oil, and all essential oils. Stir gently to blend.
- Remove the pen cap.
- Fill your pens
Using a funnel or dropper, fill each pen with the oil mixture. Avoid overfilling — leave a small air gap so the brush tip can work properly. - Assemble and prime
Press the brush firmly back into place, then twist or click (depending on your pen style) until the oil saturates the brush tip. - Use daily
Brush oil onto cuticles and massage gently. Best applied after washing hands or before bed.
How to Refill “Non-Refillable” Cuticle Oil Pens
One of the fantastic things about these pens is that they can be refilled.
The cuticle pen instructions will tell you that they are not refillable, but they are if you use this “hack”.
Here is how it is done:
You’ll need:
- Your empty cuticle oil pen
- Paper towel or cloth
- A rubber band or tacky cloth can help you get a better grip on the plastic.
- Small funnel or dropper bottle
- Your cuticle oil mix
Step 1 – Remove the brush tip section
Remove the plastic lid.
Remove the lid from the pen.
Wrap a large rubber band around the bottom section of the barrel, and you can wrap another one on the upper barrel if needed.
Gently twist and wiggle while pulling — until it pulls off.
Step 2 – Take out the inner plunger
To clean and sterilize the components, soak them in a small bowl of rubbing alcohol for 20 minutes, then let them dry.
- Inside the barrel, you’ll see a white or clear plug/plunger that pushes the oil toward the brush.
- Remove it from the barrel and twist the shaft towards you until it reaches the lowest level.
- Insert the shaft back into the barrel along with the barrel cover. It will snap into place.
Step 3 – Refill the barrel
- Using a dropper or small funnel, fill the pen barrel with your new cuticle oil blend.
- Leave a small air gap at the top so the plunger can move freely when you reassemble.
Step 4 – Reassemble
Snap or press the brush tip section back in place.
Twist or click to prime the pen until the brush is saturated.
Put the lid back on, and you are ready to roll.
Move the ball over to the other side, just below the baby toe and under the pad of the upper foot.
