Cold sores are crusty, open sores that generally appear on the outer lip due to the herpes simplex virus-1. Cold sores are not to be confused with genital herpes, which is caused by the herpes simplex virus-2 and only exist in the genital area, or canker sores, which are white patchy spots that only form on the inside of the mouth. Cold sores can be irritating, painful and difficult to remove. Although every case of cold sores will not be gone in a day after starting treatment, you can greatly minimize the appearance and severity of cold sores by starting treatment as soon as possible.
Step 1
Don't touch it. Cold sores contain active herpes simplex virus-1, and touching the sore with your hand can transmit it to other areas of the body that contain mucous membranes, such as the nose, the corner of the eye and the vagina. If you absolutely must touch your cold sore to apply medicine to it, wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching the area.
Step 2
Consult your doctor. He or she can prescribe you with an antiviral medication that will shorten the duration of your cold sore outbreak. According to the Mayo Clinic, you must catch the sore early for antiviral medications to work quickly.
Step 3
Apply benzyl alcohol to prevent pain and itching. Your doctor can prescribe prescription benzyl alcohol to apply to your cold sore. Although the medication will not speed up the healing time of the sore, it may prevent you from touching the area if the sore is particularly painful or irritating.
Step 4
Apply prescription docosanol topical medication to your cold sores. Docosanol topical medications have been proven by the FDA to shorten the healing time of cold sores. Apply the medication according to your doctor's directions.
Step 5
Be patient. Although you may want to get rid of a cold sore in a day or less, some cold sores can last as long as 12 days.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult a doctor if your cold sore lasts for longer than 12 days.
- Do not share drinks or kiss anyone during a cold-sore outbreak to prevent spreading the infection.
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Antiviral medication
- Benzyl alcohol
- Docosanol
