What are common post-care instructions after undergoing a laser treatment?

After undergoing laser treatment, it's essential to protect the skin and ensure proper healing. Avoiding sun exposure is crucial because the skin may be more sensitive and prone to damage after treatment. Exposure to sunlight can lead to hyperpigmentation, irritation, or even scarring. Additionally, using gentle cleansers helps prevent irritation and allows the skin to recover without unnecessary scrubbing or harsh ingredients that could exacerbate discomfort or sensitivity.

The other options suggest practices that are generally not recommended. For instance, avoiding all physical activity for a week may not be necessary; light activities can often be resumed, depending on the treatment. Applying makeup immediately is usually discouraged, as it can introduce bacteria and irritate the skin. While taking over-the-counter pain medication can be appropriate in some contexts, it is not a universal post-care instruction and should be based on the individual's comfort level and the specific treatment performed. Therefore, the emphasis on avoiding sun exposure and using gentle cleansers represents a well-rounded approach to post-care after laser treatments.