What ingredient in nail polish acts as a solvent?

The ingredient in nail polish that acts as a solvent is ethyl acetate. Solvents are essential in nail polish formulations as they help dissolve the other components, allowing the polish to spread smoothly and uniformly on the nail surface. Ethyl acetate is particularly effective because it has a low evaporation rate, which aids in creating a glossy finish once the polish dries.

In addition, ethyl acetate has a pleasant scent compared to other solvents, making it a preferred choice in cosmetic products. It effectively evaporates after application, leaving behind the colored pigments and film-forming agents that provide the polish's desired effect.

Other ingredients like propylene glycol, acetone, and isopropyl alcohol serve different purposes. While acetone can be a solvent and is commonly used in nail polish removers for its strong solvent properties, it is not typically used in the formulation of the polish itself due to its aggressive nature which can dry out the nails and cuticles. Propylene glycol is primarily used as a moisturizing agent, and isopropyl alcohol is more commonly associated with disinfecting rather than serving as a primary solvent in nail polish.