Final answer:
Cuticle cream is used to soften cuticle skin during a manicure, as it is specifically formulated to moisturize and protect the cuticles. Acetone, while an industrial solvent and nail polish remover ingredient, is not suitable for this use. Antiseptics prevent infection but do not soften cuticles.
Step-by-step explanation:
When performing a manicure, the product that may be used to soften cuticle skin is cuticle cream. Unlike acetone, which is a solvent used in nail polish removers and not suitable for softening cuticles, cuticle cream is specifically designed for the delicate task of moisturizing and softening the cuticles to improve the overall appearance of the nails and enhance the manicure process. Acetone, while being the simplest ketone and an effective industrial solvent, is not appropriate for this particular use as its properties are more suited to removing nail polish and cleaning purposes. It is also essential to avoid cutting the cuticle during a manicure as this can lead to infections and damage the nail bed.
Antiseptics may be present in some skincare products to prevent infection, but their primary purpose is not to soften the cuticle. Hence, when choosing a product for cuticle care, it is best to opt for a specialized cuticle cream.