Which chemical is commonly used in nail polish removers?

Acetone is commonly used in nail polish removers because of its effectiveness in breaking down the resins and polymers found in nail lacquer. It is a strong solvent that can quickly dissolve nail polish, making it easier to remove from the nails. Its rapid evaporation helps ensure that the nails dry quickly after removal, which is appealing for both professional and at-home use.

While other chemicals like ethyl acetate are also found in some nail polish removers, acetone is the most well-known and widely used option. Its unique properties make it particularly suited for this task, as it can penetrate the polish effectively and work faster than many alternative removers. The use of alcohol is more common as a disinfectant rather than a primary ingredient in polish removers, and formaldehyde is typically not found in remover products due to safety concerns. Thus, acetone stands out as the primary and most effective chemical for this purpose.