Which ingredient in nail polish helps to stabilize it against UV light?

The ingredient that helps to stabilize nail polish against UV light is a UV stabilizer. This component is specifically designed to absorb or reflect harmful UV rays, preventing them from breaking down the formula and maintaining the integrity of the polish. Without a UV stabilizer, the colors in nail polish could fade, become discolored, or even impact the consistency of the product over time when exposed to sunlight.

In the context of the other options, solvents are used primarily to dissolve other ingredients and create the right consistency for application; plasticizers are effective in enhancing the flexibility and durability of the polish; and dispersants help to distribute color pigments evenly throughout the formulation to achieve a uniform appearance. However, none of these fulfill the specific role of protecting the polish from UV degradation as effectively as a UV stabilizer does. This specialty function is critical for ensuring that the nail polish retains its desired properties and appearance during exposure to sunlight.