Pimples and cold sores are facial lesion which may be similar in appearance but have very different causes. Pimples are caused by the blockage of facial pores. Cold sores are the result of a viral infection.
Pimple Causes
Pimples (acne) are caused by a multitude of factors and are much more common in teenagers. Overproduction of sebum (oil), excess of bacteria and irregular shedding of the skin all can cause acne. Pimples can be found all over the body but are most common on a the person's face.
Cold Sore Causes
Cold sores are a result of a viral infection. Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus 1 and herpes simplex virus 2. When a person's oral mucous membranes are exposed to either herpes simplex virus, he contracts herpes. After the initial infection, herpes has a tendency to flare up causing painful lesions(cold sores) on the lips, mouth or nose.
Pimple Treatment
Over-the-counter topical medications, antibiotics, oral (hormonal) contraceptives, laser therapy and light therapy are all used to treat acne, depending on the cause of the lesions. In most cases if acne is not treated it does not have a tendency to self-resolve. In most cases, scarring and aggravation of the condition will result if left untreated.
Cold Sore Treatment
Cold sores are treated with topical antiviral medication. Lidocaine is often used for pain relief. Unlike acne, if left untreated cold sores will self-resolve in about 10 to 14 days. Sometimes doctors may prescribe oral antiviral medication to prevent frequent herpetic outbreaks.
Differences
Though there are many similarities between pimples and cold sores, there are quite a few differences. Pimples are found all over the body but cold sores are confined mostly to the nose and mouth areas. Teenagers and pregnant women are the most common sufferers of acne, whereas all age groups are susceptible to cold sores. Anyone can have pimples but only those exposed to the herpes virus can suffer from cold sores.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Cold sore
- MayoClinic.com: Acne
- Control of Communicable Diseases Manual, 18th Editon; David L. Heymann; 2004
