Which of the following should be avoided in post-procedure care?

• A. Keep the area clean and dry
• B. Apply cosmetics over treatment area
• C. Wash the area with mild soap
• D. Avoid touching the area

Answer: (B)

Post-procedure care centers on promoting healing while minimizing infection, irritation, and interference with the treatment area. Keeping the area clean and dry helps prevent moisture buildup that can breed bacteria, and washing with a mild soap supports gentle cleaning without harsh chemicals that could irritate healing skin. Avoiding touching the area reduces the chance of transferring bacteria and causing trauma or delayed healing. Applying cosmetics over the treatment area, however, can trap bacteria, bring irritants into contact with sensitive skin, and potentially disrupt the healing process or the appearance as it heals. Makeup can also seal in moisture in a way that promotes maceration or uneven results, so it’s best avoided until the area is fully healed.