Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on January 2010

Courtesy of Uka

Uka Nail Oil multitasks like we wish we could. The scented oil in this lip-balm-sized roll-on stick promises healthy, glowing nails and cuticles, with a mood boost to boot. Using healthy oil derived from the seed of the Moroccan Argan tree (which boasts three times the vitamin E content of olive oil), the newly launched product is the work of nail pro and Uka beauty salon founder Kiho Watanabe. And that’s not all—the 100 percent organic, additive-free aromas come courtesy of the French essential oil developer Gilles Berthoumieux.

Each of the five varieties is tailored for different, timely needs. The morning blend, “7:15,” matches grounding sandalwood and hinoki with refreshing yuzu. Next up is a mix of mint and lemon for improved concentration in the afternoon, followed by gentle, sensual rose and geranium for unwinding after work. “24:45” includes lavender and vanilla to coax you to sleep, while a final “basic” version blends subtle sweet almond and jojoba oil for use anytime. The texture of the oil is time-specific, too—the nighttime and basic versions go on thick, while the midday blend is lighter to the touch, so as not to coat your keyboard as well. Sold individually (¥3,150) or as a set (¥14,700), the purse- and pocket-friendly Uka Nail Oil also works on lips and pulse points, or anywhere else in need of a moisturizing pick-me-up.

Available at the second floor Beauty Apothecary boutique at Isetan Shinjuku, and online at www.uka.co.jp/ukanailoil.