What effect does dehydrating the nail have before applying enhancements?

Dehydrating the nail before applying enhancements serves the essential purpose of removing excess moisture from the nail surface. When moisture is present, it can create a barrier that hinders the proper adhesion of adhesives, gels, or acrylics. Effective adhesion is crucial for ensuring the durability and longevity of the nail enhancements. By ensuring that the nail is adequately dehydrated, technicians promote a stronger bond between the natural nail and the enhancement products, ultimately resulting in a more effective application and reduced risk of lifting.

The other options do not accurately represent the effect of dehydrating the nail. For example, adding moisture would be counterproductive to the adhesion process, while increasing flexibility or preventing breakage are not direct outcomes of the dehydration process. The focus remains on creating a conducive environment for adhesives and enhancements to perform optimally on the nail plate.