All products are independently selected by our editors.
If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Wondering how to get rid of cold sores?
Youre not the only one.
Its simply something that happenstolotsand lots of people!
What are cold sores?
They are resulting from the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
Most cases are brought on by herpes simplex virus throw in 1.
Dr. Mudgil echoes this, noting that cold sores tend to resemble small blisters.
Theyre generally on the lips or around the mouth.
When the blisters pop, they can form a crust, he says.
Having a chronic virus that flares up every so often isnt fun.
Most folks feel some sort of tingling or burning before the onset of a cold sore outbreak.
Oral antiviral medication taken during this prodrome phase can prevent an outbreak, says Dr. Mudgil.
Your board-certified dermatologist can review the best options for you depending on the specifics of your case.
you’re free to also acquire prescription antivirals via telehealth services likeHimsand Hers,Wisp, andNurx.
Patches prevent you from picking at or squeezing the blister, which is a major no-no.
(They also make for an ideal base upon which toapply concealer, which well address below.)
This helps provide aprotective barrierto help with healing and minimize external irritation.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment Advanced Therapy Skin Protectant
Wear lip balm with SPF.
Finally, its important to make subtle lifestyle changes to prevent the cold sore from getting worse.
Dr. Camp also suggests using an ice compress to manage the symptoms.
For a handheld option, consider a cryotherapy face mask (clean it well afterward).
These may burn if they come in contact with the affected area, says Dr. Camp.
That said, if you dontneedto, its not a bad idea to hold off.
But I understand that sometimes in life you just have to cover them up!
Apply with a disposable applicator.
Both Dr. Camp and Amick reiterate the importance of disposable applicators whenapplying makeupto cold sores.
Amick also suggests applying a hydrocolloid patch to the clean, dry blemish prior to adding makeup.
This will help keep the area safe, she says.
Ulta Beauty Collection Dual-Tipped Foam Applicators
Prime with color-correcting products.
Dr. Garshick also points togreen-tinted primersespecially those that hydrate as well.
As for makeup artist-approvedconcealers?
An absolute favorite for coveringanymark or blemish is Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer, says Amick.
Another great option is Make Up for Ever Full Coverage concealer, which has a similar effect.
For something on the more hydrating side, Dr. Garshick recommends Dermablends Cover Care Full Coverage Concealer.
It contains glycerin to hydrate the skin while still providing cosmetic coverage, she says.
Dr. Camp agrees, and adds that the AAD recommends the following.
Being as stress-free and rested as possible helps, he says.
EltaMD UV Lip Balm Sunscreen SPF 36
Supergoop!
