What is the primary purpose of cleansing the skin before medication application?

The primary purpose of cleansing the skin before applying medication is to ensure proper absorption of the medication. When the skin is clean, it minimizes the presence of dirt, oil, and other barriers that could hinder the medication's ability to penetrate the skin and reach the intended tissues or bloodstream. Cleansing allows for a more effective delivery of the active ingredients within the medication, maximizing its therapeutic effects.

Additionally, while improving aesthetic appearance and avoiding allergic reactions may have their own significance in some contexts, they are not the primary reasons for the cleansing step in medication administration. Ensuring proper absorption directly impacts the medication's effectiveness, making it the most critical reason for this procedure.