What is the recommended post-treatment care for laser procedures?

The recommended post-treatment care for laser procedures emphasizes the application of sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure. This is crucial because laser treatments can make the skin more sensitive and vulnerable to UV radiation. Protecting the treated area from the sun helps to prevent hyperpigmentation, irritation, and other adverse reactions that can occur when sensitive skin is exposed to sunlight. Using sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF and reapplying it regularly is vital in protecting the skin during the healing process.

Applying a wound dressing, while relevant in some cases, is not universally necessary for all laser treatments, especially those that do not create open wounds. The use of hydrocortisone cream may be appropriate in certain situations to reduce inflammation, but it is not a standard recommendation for all laser procedures. Immediate exfoliation of the treated area can be counterproductive, as newly treated skin needs time to heal properly and exfoliation could lead to further irritation or complications. Thus, protecting the skin from sun exposure and applying sunscreen is the most widely endorsed practice following laser treatment.