Which of the following best describes an antiseptic?

An antiseptic is a substance that helps to prevent the growth of disease-causing microorganisms on living tissue, such as skin. This aligns with the idea of cleaning the skin, as antiseptics are often applied to areas of the skin to reduce the risk of infection, especially before procedures or after injuries. Antiseptics are typically used in a variety of settings, including medical environments and personal care routines.

Products used to disinfect tools are meant for surfaces and instruments rather than for direct application on skin. Removing nail polish involves solvents that dissolve polish, not antiseptic action. Exfoliation refers to the process of removing dead skin cells, which does not pertain to antiseptic properties, but instead focuses on skin renewal. Therefore, the best description of an antiseptic is one that relates to the application on skin to help maintain cleanliness and prevent infection.