What chemical, when combined with resins and the proper curing lamp, causes UV gels to cure?

The chemical that, when combined with resins and the proper curing lamp, causes UV gels to cure is the photo initiator. Photo initiators are crucial in the curing process of UV gel products because they absorb UV light and then initiate a chemical reaction that leads to polymerization. When UV light is applied to a gel containing a photo initiator, it activates the initiator, which then triggers the cross-linking of the resin molecules. This cross-linking transforms the gel from a liquid state into a solid, durable coating that adheres well to the natural nail.

In this context, stabilizers, emollients, and thinners serve different purposes. Stabilizers are used to maintain the consistency and quality of the product without contributing to the curing process. Emollients provide moisture and smoothness to the nails but do not participate in the curing of UV gels. Thinners are additives to adjust the viscosity of products for ease of application, but they do not play a role in initiating the curing reaction. Thus, the correct choice highlights the fundamental role of photo initiators in UV gel curing.