Final answer:
The polish dries after a pedicure through the evaporation of solvents, which can be accelerated with air flow or UV lamps for gel polish.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process that allows the polish to dry after a pedicure involves the evaporation of solvents. When polish is applied to nails, it is in a liquid state thanks to solvents that are mixed with the colored pigments and other components of the polish. As the polish is exposed to air, the solvents evaporate, leaving behind the solid color layer on the nails. This drying process can be accelerated by using a fan, applying thin layers of polish, or using a quick-dry top coat product. In some cases, UV lamps are used to cure specific types of polish known as gel polish, which hardens after being exposed to ultraviolet light. It's important not to confuse drying with curing, as they are different processes; drying refers to solvent evaporation, while curing refers to a chemical reaction that hardens the polish.