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The Common Cold Sore

Cold sores are often confused with canker sores, which are small, whitish ulcers that always form inside the mouth.

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, one of the most common viral infections in the world. They are contagious, although cold sore symptoms may not appear for quite some time after exposure to the virus, making it difficult to ascertain exactly when exposure may have occurred.

After you have had an occurrence of cold sores, the virus remains in your skin and may cause a reappearance of cold sores at some point in the future. Stress, sun exposure, menstruation, illnesses such as a cold or the flu, injury to the lips such as trauma or chapping and/or fever may set off a recurrence of the blisters.

To help prevent the spread of the virus, do not kiss or share drinks, eating utensils, razors, lipstick, lip balm, toothbrush or towels when you have or feel you may be getting a cold sore. You also should wash your hands frequently when you have a cold sore. Using sunblock year-round on your lips and face may help prevent cold sores. Dermalogica’s Solar Shield SPF 15 is a good choice, as are SPF 30+ Sunblock Stick Super Sensitive - Fragrance Free by California Baby and SkinMedica Daily Sun Protection for Faces SPF 20.

If you suffer from frequent episodes of cold sores, try to figure out what triggers may set them off so you can learn when an outbreak can be expected and can begin treatment as soon as possible. There are a number of over-the-counter creams that can help treat the discomfort of cold sores, especially when started early enough, but they may not speed the healing process. Viroxyn is a patented topical germicidal and antiseptic treatment that can be used on forming or active lesions to eliminate the pain and burning and lessen the length of the outbreak. For many people, just one application of Viroxyn is enough to eliminate a cold sore.

Carmex also makes a number of products designed to help with the healing process of cold sores. Their popular lip balm comes in the Carmex Jar or in an easy-to-apply, no-mess tube.

To help with the pain of the blisters, never pick at them; instead, use a pain reliever such as Tylenol or Motrin, or use warm or cold compresses. Once the blisters have scabbed, applying a product containing petroleum jelly or shea or cocoa butter may help to soften them and prevent cracking and bleeding. Instant Emollient by Bioelements contains a protective sunscreen, soothing vitamin E and a blend of calming Bulgarian Rose and Chamomile aromatherapy oils to help soothe lips in a flash. The ultra-concentrated Decleor Aromessence™ Baume Levres - Lip Balm instantly starts to heal and smooth.

If you suffer from frequent outbreaks of cold sores, it is a good idea to see your doctor. He or she can determine whether or not your symptoms are a sign of a more serious infection, can give you some tips on how to prevent spreading the virus and may prescribe a stronger medication to help with the pain and discomfort.

Article posted 6/25/2007.

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Carmex Jar by Carmex Retail Value: $1.42 OUR PRICE: $1.14 You Save: 20%

Instant Emollient by Bioelements $27.00

SPF 30+ Sunblock Stick Super Sensitive - Fragrance Free - Fragrance Free by California Baby $15.15