Which ingredient is commonly used in nail polish remover?

Acetone is commonly used in nail polish remover due to its effectiveness in quickly dissolving the resins and pigments found in nail polish. It is a strong solvent that efficiently breaks down the chemical bonds in nail polish, making it easier to remove from the nails. In addition to its efficacy, acetone evaporates quickly, which can be beneficial for quick drying. This strong solvent property is what distinguishes acetone from other potential ingredients.

While isopropyl alcohol can be used as a solvent, it is generally less effective for nail polish removal when compared to acetone. Ethyl acetate is also a compound found in some nail polish removers, and though it can be effective, acetone is often favored for its speed and efficiency. Hydrogen peroxide, while a common household chemical, does not possess the necessary solvent properties to effectively dissolve nail polish, and thus is not used as a nail polish remover.