What chemical agent is used to remove gel polish?

The correct answer is acetone, which is widely recognized as the most effective chemical agent for removing gel polish. Acetone works efficiently by breaking down the polymer structure of gel products, allowing them to be easily wiped away from the natural nail. Its strong solvent properties penetrate the gel layer, softening it and making removal straightforward when used in conjunction with a nail wrap or cotton pad.

Other agents listed, such as isopropyl alcohol and ethyl acetate, lack the potency of acetone for this specific use. Isopropyl alcohol is more commonly utilized for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces rather than for dissolving gel polish. Ethyl acetate is a component found in some nail polish removers but is generally less effective than acetone for the removal of gel polish, which has a more resilient structure. Acetic acid, while beneficial in some beauty applications, is not recommended for removing gel products. Thus, acetone is the preferred choice due to its strong solvent capabilities and effectiveness in removing gel finishes.