Cold sores, or fever blisters, are tiny, liquid-filled blisters typically seen on or near the lips. Originating from the herpes simplex virus, these sores can effortlessly be transmitted among individuals via being near one another.
While cold sores might be painful and not visually appealing, the good news is that they can be treated, particularly if identified in the early phases. Indeed, treating cold sores during the initial stages is crucial since it can lessen the severity and length of the outbreak. It can also lower the likelihood of passing the virus to other people.
When you must head out with a cold sore, learning some tips to conceal cold sores can be valuable, giving you a confidence boost as you wait for them to heal. Anyhow, if you’ve experienced that tingling feeling that frequently comes before a cold sore, it’s vital to take action promptly.
Continue reading to learn how to treat cold sores during their initial stages.
- Apply Ice Therapy
Ice therapy is a simple yet effective way to treat cold sores during their initial phases.
The cold feeling from the ice narrows blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the area, which then aids in decreasing swelling and discomfort. Moreover, ice treatment can numb the area, offering a temporary relief from cold sore-related pain.
To effectively use ice treatment for cold sores, follow these steps:
- Start by enclosing a couple of ice cubes in a clean cloth or plastic bag. Don’t place ice directly onto your skin; it might result in frostbite or harm sensitive skin near your lips.
- Press the ice pack onto the cold sore for 10 to 15 minutes. This ought to deliver immediate relief and help lessen inflammation. Ensure not to apply excessive pressure, which could lead to more irritation.
- Take away the ice pack and let your skin rest for at least 10 minutes. This pause allows your skin to recuperate and avoids potential harm from extended cold exposure.
- Repeat this process as necessary throughout the day, ensuring you give your skin enough time to rest between applications.
- Apply Topical Lemon Balm Cream
Lemon balm cream is an excellent natural solution for treating cold sores during their initial stages. This herbal solution, extracted from the lemon balm plant, has a long history of easing various skin issues due to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory characteristics.
Using lemon balm cream for cold sores offers many benefits. Firstly, its antiviral qualities can aid in hindering the herpes simplex virus, potentially reducing the outbreak’s duration. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory effects of lemon balm cream can help calm the skin and minimize swelling, making the cold sore less visible and easier to handle.
To use lemon balm cream on a cold sore, follow these straightforward steps:
- Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream to prevent spreading the virus.
- Gently cleanse the cold sore area with soap and water, then pat it dry using a clean towel.
- Put a small quantity of lemon balm cream on the cold sore with a cotton swab or your fingertip. Apply the cream gently to avoid causing extra irritation.
- Let the cream be absorbed into your skin, and refrain from touching the area for several minutes.
- Use Lip Balms With Lemon Balm
Lip balms with lemon balm are an excellent way to protect cold sores from environmental factors like wind and sun exposure. Plus, lemon balm’s antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate the discomfort of the outbreak, reducing its duration and intensity.
When choosing a lip balm with lemon balm, there are some things to remember. So, follow these tips:
- Ensure the product has lemon balm as one of the primary ingredients to get the full benefits of the herb in your lip balm.
- Opt for lip balms free of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, as these can potentially irritate the cold sore and prolong the healing process.
- Choose a lip balm with sun protection, as sunlight can worsen cold sores and delay healing. Look for a product with an SPF of at least 15 to ensure adequate protection.
- Apply Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is another natural remedy that can be highly effective for treating cold sores in their early stages. Extracted from the peppermint plant, this essential oil has been widely used for its antimicrobial and antiviral properties. It’s a popular choice for combating the herpes simplex virus responsible for cold sores.
Peppermint oil inhibits the said virus by penetrating the skin and directly targeting the virus particles. This action helps prevent the virus from replicating and spreading, which can shorten the duration of a cold sore outbreak and potentially reduce its severity.
Conclusion
Treating cold sores in their early stages can help reduce their duration and severity. This can be achieved in several ways, such as the abovementioned remedies. While they can offer relief, consulting with a healthcare provider is essential if the cold sore persists or worsens. Remember to practice good hygiene, avoid sharing personal items, and protect your lips from environmental factors to prevent cold sores from recurring.
