COLD SORES
What is it?
A cold sore, also known as a fever blister, is a small, painful blister or group of blisters that typically appears on or around the lips. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), though HSV-2 (which usually causes genital herpes) can also sometimes be responsible.
Key Facts
- Highly Contagious: Cold sores spread through direct contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils, towels, or lip balm. [1]
- How common is it?: Cold sores are very common, in the USA 80% of people have the virus. [2]
- Triggered by Various Factors: Stress, fatigue, fever, sun exposure, or a weakened immune system can activate the virus. [3]
- Triggered by Lasers: Various energy based services can trigger a cold sore outbreak. [4]
- No Cure: Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate periodically. [5]
How long does it last? Does it Relapse?
- A cold sore typically lasts between 7 to 10 days, but the duration can vary based on the individual and treatment.
- The sore goes through several stages before healing completely.
- Cold sores can reoccur because the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) stays in your body permanently after the first infection.
- The virus becomes dormant in nerve cells but can reactivate periodically, causing new outbreaks.
Is it curable or treatable?
- Antiviral Medications: Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, or Famciclovir can speed up healing and reduce outbreaks.
- Over-the-Counter Creams: Docosanol (Abreva) may help shorten the duration if applied early.
- Prevention is Key: If you’re prone to cold sores, please let us know before your treatment. We can prescribe antiviral medication to take in advance of energy-based procedures.
- Home Remedies: Ice packs, aloe vera, and avoiding triggers can provide relief.
- Red Light Therapy: Red light therapy reduces swelling, redness, and discomfort by improving blood circulation while also interfering with HSV-1 replication, which may lessen the severity of outbreaks.
Before & After
Our treatments
We combine medical and aesthetic expertise to create personalized skincare solutions using advanced laser and energy-based devices.
FAQ
Are cold sores preventable?
Yes! Cold sores are preventable through use of antiviral medications taken early in the course or prior to known triggers (such as energy based services).
Are cold sores the same as herpes?
A cold sore is considered a manifestation of the herpes virus, most commonly the HSV-1 strain.
What triggers a cold sore?
Common triggers include:
- Injury to the lips (cuts, dental work)
- Hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy)
- Stress and fatigue
- Weakened immune system (illness, fever, or infections)
- Sun exposure
Are cold sores an STD?
A cold sore, while caused by the herpes simplex virus which can be transmitted sexually, is not typically considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD) because it most commonly spreads through non-sexual contact like kissing, sharing utensils, or close skin-to-skin contact, usually in childhood.
Do cold sores mean you have HPV?
No, cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), not the human papillomavirus (HPV).