Frequently Asked Questions

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, liquid-filled blisters that often develop around the mouth and affect as many as 2 in 3 people worldwide.

A cold sore is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1, and occasionally HSV type 2. These sores can develop on different body parts, although they’re commonly found around the lips. Some people might get cold sores around their noses and cheeks as well.

Cold sores are common and affect people of all ages. It’s estimated that 57 to 80 percent of Americans and 67 percent of all adults worldwide carry the virus that causes a cold sore. By age 50, an estimated 9 in 10 adults have been exposed to the cold sore virus.

Cold sores are contagious and the virus can pass to another person through direct contact.

Cold sores are most commonly spread through direct contact with an infected person, such as kissing or sharing personal items like lip balm or utensils. The virus can also spread through contact with infected saliva.

It’s important to note that you can also spread the virus when you don’t have a blister or other symptoms. You’re still a carrier even if the virus is dormant in your body. You’re most contagious when blisters are present, so wait until a blister completely heals and scabs over before coming in close contact with anyone.

A cold sore forms in stages. Early symptoms include itching and tingling on or around the lips before a blister appears, and red or swollen skin. Clusters of fluid-filled blisters similar to tiny pimples develop one or two days later. In the days that follow, the blisters break open and ooze. A scab forms over the cold sore after about a week and falls off in about 10 to 14 days.

Preventive measures include avoiding close contact with infected individuals, not sharing personal items, and maintaining good hygiene. If you have a cold sore, try to avoid touching it and wash your hands frequently.

You can prevent an outbreak by avoiding certain triggers. A weakened immune system, stress, and/or fatigue can trigger an outbreak. Get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a balanced diet to keep your immune function strong.

Short answer: No. Cold sores are nothing like pimples. Popping or picking at a cold sore can spread the virus to other parts of your body and may lead to an infection or scarring. It’s best to avoid touching the cold sore at all and if you do touch it, wash your hands immediately.

A cold sore can be unsightly and embarrassing, and even after healing, it may reappear in the same spot or a different one.

While there’s no cure for the virus that causes a cold sore, taking a proactive approach might reduce the frequency and severity of an outbreak. Over-the-counter treatments can provide relief from symptoms and shorten the recovery time.

Over-the-counter creams and ointments can effectively alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cold sore outbreaks. One of the latest advancements in treatment includes products containing Tranexamic acid, which have been shown to significantly speed up the healing process. These new treatments offer a promising option for those seeking faster recovery and symptom relief.