Give Cold Sores the Cold Shoulder!
Every summer, I typically get a cold sore after getting my first sunburn.
Throughout the years, I have experimented with various approaches to managing, treating, and preventing these cold sores. I have now figured out the best methods to prevent cold sores from occurring. Whether triggered by stress, illness, or sun exposure, these methods have proven to be beneficial. Get ready to kiss cold sores goodbye!
Cold Sore S.O.S.
The first step is to consult your healthcare provider to discuss prevention options based on your cold sore frequency. For me, getting a bad sunburn is a primary trigger, so my doctor recommended Acyclovir. This medication, combined with other preventive measures, has made a huge difference in the severity and longevity of my cold sores. Seeking professional advice for personalized recommendations is essential to the first step.
Combatting Cold Sores
A method that I have found most effective is taking l-lysine daily before sun exposure to prevent a potential cold sore. This was a recommendation I received several years ago, and consistent use during the summer has stopped breakouts from happening almost completely.
Spotlight On Skin
Another effective method I found is red light therapy. Although buying the mask was expensive, investing in a red light mask for acne scars proved very helpful for treating my cold sores. Incorporating red light therapy helped speed up the healing process and reduced any risk of scarring.
Honey Healing
In terms of topical treatments, I have found that tea tree oil and honey work well for me. Given tea tree’s ability to combat acne, I decided to use it for cold sores and noticed it works very well in healing them faster. Honey is helpful as it has natural antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. Applying raw honey to the fever blister can keep it clean, prevent infections, and soothe the skin, reducing discomfort from cold sores.
These methods have significantly improved managing cold sores during the summer heat. I still advise you to discuss these approaches with a healthcare provider as everyone is different, and there may be better options for you. I hope that these recommendations help!
Be well, Auburn!
Writer
Cat was born in Georgia but moved a lot as a child. From North Carolina to Florida, she has been all over the south. Cat can confidently say she has found her home in Auburn. Now a junior, she is majoring in Marketing and minoring in Crop Soil Sciences.
She has a passion for social media and environmental science and hopes to combine both her passions in her career one day. Outside of class, Cat loves trying new foods, going on long walks, and binge watching New Girl with her roomie. She is also on the club swim team and spends her afternoons practicing. Cat is so excited for the rest of her time at Auburn and hopes to spend it as best she can!
