What are cold sores?
Cold sores (herpes labialis, or oral herpes), are a recurrent skin infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This virus is usually found in the ganglia nerve and, in stressful circumstances, the virus can be activated and will spread to the lips, leading to the destruction of many epidermis cells. Given its other names, cold sores unsurprisingly appear most commonly on the lips. However, the virus can also appear on the nose, cheeks and fingers. In women, it can often appear on the lower back and buttocks.
What are the symptoms of cold sores?
First, a tingling, itching and burning sensation may be felt on or around the lips. This stage is followed by redness and swelling. Finally, clustered, fluid-filled sores appear. Cold sores usually heal in seven to ten days, but can reactivate at any point after certain triggers such as fatigue and stress, the menstrual cycle, or sun exposure.
What to do about cold sores
To help relieve skin symptoms associated with cold sores, we recommend using Dermasana, a targeted topical treatment containing Aluminum Chloride, with astringent, soothing, and cleansing properties. While it does not act directly on the virus, it helps reduce skin discomfort, swelling, and excess moisture on the skin’s surface, promoting the drying of the vesicles.
- Apply Dermasana several times a day until the blisters are dry.
- Then apply PEG Ointment, even two or three times a day, to promote normalisation of the skin.
To be avoided
Avoid using natural remedies such as vinegar compresses, chamomile tea, baking soda, lemon juice or ice. Although these remedies may help scabs detach quickly, they irritate the cells of the skin, meaning that such remedies can actually prolong inflammation and delay long-term healing.
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