What is the purpose of a plasticizer in nail products?

A plasticizer is an additive used in various nail products to enhance their properties, particularly focusing on flexibility. The primary purpose of a plasticizer is to increase the flexibility of the finished product, such as nail polish or enhancements, which helps prevent cracking and brittleness over time. By doing so, it allows the product to withstand everyday wear and tear without breaking or chipping easily.

In contrast to the other options, creating a barrier layer involves different components that specifically focus on protection rather than flexibility. Enhancing color saturation typically relies on pigments and dyes rather than plasticizers, and facilitating the evaporation of solvents is generally a function of the formulation’s base components, rather than a role played by plasticizers. Therefore, the correct choice adequately reflects the role of plasticizers in maintaining the durability and longevity of nail products while ensuring they remain flexible.