Which of the following is a benefit of using antiseptics in nail care?

Using antiseptics in nail care effectively reduces the risk of infection. Antiseptics are substances that inhibit the growth of microorganisms on living tissue, which is crucial in nail care to prevent potential infections that can occur due to minor cuts, abrasions, or other skin disruptions.

When applied before any nail treatments or procedures, antiseptics prepare the area by creating a cleaner environment, reducing the chance of bacteria entering through the skin or nails. This is especially important in salon settings where multiple clients are serviced, ensuring that practices maintain high hygiene standards.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the primary function of antiseptics in nail care. For instance, antiseptics do not promote faster nail growth, enhance the adhesion of color polish, or help in smoothing rough edges – these functions are typically associated with other products or tools. Thus, the central purpose of antiseptics remains in infection prevention and control, highlighting their importance in nail care.