What is the primary chemical used in nail polish remover?

The primary chemical used in nail polish remover is acetone. Acetone is a powerful solvent known for its ability to effectively dissolve and remove nail polish, making it the most common active ingredient in many nail polish removers. It works by breaking down the ingredients in nail polish, allowing for easy removal from the nails.

While ethyl alcohol, methyl ethyl ketone, and isopropyl alcohol can also serve as solvents, they are not the primary substances used in standard nail polish removers. Ethyl alcohol typically has less efficacy compared to acetone for this purpose, and methyl ethyl ketone is less commonly found in consumer products due to its potential health risks. Isopropyl alcohol, while it can also be used to remove nail polish, does not work as effectively as acetone. This makes acetone the preferred choice in the formulation of nail polish removers.