North Carolina Cosmetic Arts Practice Exam

What should clients do as part of aftercare instructions following a treatment?

1. Immediately sunbathe

2. Engage in heavy exercise

3. Avoid sun exposure

4. Apply makeup right away

The correct answer is: Avoid sun exposure

Aftercare instructions are crucial for ensuring the best possible results from cosmetic treatments and minimizing potential complications. Advising clients to avoid sun exposure is an essential part of aftercare because skin can be sensitive following treatment. Sun exposure may lead to irritation, pigmentation changes, or even cause damage to the treated area, which can have negative effects on the healing process. This approach promotes optimal skin recovery and helps prevent adverse reactions. Additionally, reducing sun exposure can protect against long-term consequences, such as premature aging or skin concerns like sunburn. In contrast, the other options would likely compromise the results of the treatment or impede the healing process. For example, immediately sunbathing or engaging in heavy exercise could increase inflammation and redness, while applying makeup right away might introduce bacteria and irritants to sensitive skin.