How to Get Rid of Cold Sores – Triggers, Stages and Care

Reading time 7 minutes. Last updated October 3, 2025.

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Cold sores, also known as fever blisters or oral herpes, are a common problem, and can be painful while they heal. They are fluid-filled blisters, most often appearing in patches on or around the lips. Triggers like stress, illness, or sun exposure can bring on an outbreak.

Recognising the early signs is important, as cold sores are highly contagious and spread easily through direct contact. Timely treatment helps reduce discomfort and limit transmission. Although there’s no cure for them, you can effectively treat this condition at home.

In this article, we talk about different ways to ease symptoms and help healing. We include simple home remedies, supplements, and techniques that can reduce pain effectively. Additionally, they may decrease the likelihood of future outbreaks.

What are Cold Sores?

Cold sores are small blisters filled with fluid, usually appearing on or around the lips. They are mainly caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus, typically HSV-1. Most people are exposed to the virus in infancy or childhood. Once a person is exposed to this virus for the first time, it settles in the body and can remain inactive for long periods. However, various factors can lead to reactivation, resulting in cold sore outbreaks.

These blisters are highly contagious. They spread through close contact, such as kissing or sharing personal items like lip balm or utensils. Managing and treating symptoms early can help minimise discomfort and reduce the duration of an outbreak.

How Long Do Cold Sores Last?

Cold sores usually heal in 7 to 10 days. They most often appear on or near the lips and pass through stages from tingling to blister, weeping, then scabbing before they clear. They are contagious from the first tingle until the skin has fully healed. Starting an antiviral cream at the tingling stage may help shorten symptoms for some people. However, in certain situations, especially when effective treatments are applied, some cold sores may resolve more quickly than usual. The length of these outbreaks can vary from person to person. This depends on many factors, including overall health and how well-chosen remedies work to manage the condition.

Factors Affecting Healing Time

Healing time for cold sores varies based on several elements. Factors that may influence recovery include:

• Overall immune health
• Timeliness of treatment
• Levels of stress
• Presence of additional infections

Trigger Factors

Certain triggers can provoke cold sore outbreaks, even when the virus is dormant. Common factors that might lead to an outbreak include:

• High stress and anxiety
• Illness, such as a cold or fever
• Sun exposure or sunburn
• Cold, windy weather
• Hormonal changes

Symptoms of Cold Sores

Cold sores start with tingling or itching around the mouth area. Soon after, painful blisters form on or near the lips. These blisters can break open, resulting in small ulcers that eventually crust over and heal.

Identifying them involves observing changes. Look for clusters of tiny blisters. These blisters typically merge into painful patches and often the blisters burst and crust over into a scab.

Pay attention to any prior tingling or itching sensations in that area. Such symptoms usually precede the visible signs of a cold sore. Read more about the NHS guidance on cold sores (symptoms, care, when to see a GP).

Cold Sores vs. Other Mouth Conditions

Cold sores can frequently be confused with various other skin conditions because of their visual characteristics. It is essential to identify and differentiate cold sores from other ailments to ensure proper treatment and care. Recognising the specific symptoms and signs of cold sores is crucial for effective management of the condition. Common conditions that are often confused with cold sores include:

• Canker sores are different from cold sores. Cold sores are usually caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Canker sores do not come from this virus. Instead, they manifest inside the mouth, presenting a different set of symptoms and characteristics.
• Angular cheilitis: This condition is characterised by inflammation occurring at the corners of the mouth. It is important to note that this issue is not caused by a viral infection. Instead, it is often associated with other factors such as irritation, nutritional deficiencies, or fungal infections.
• Exfoliative cheilitis is a condition that affects the lips, characterised by persistent peeling or flaking of the skin. People with this condition often notice their lips become dry and cracked. Sometimes, their lips may even bleed because of the constant shedding of the outer layer. This condition can be quite uncomfortable, causing sensations of irritation or tenderness.

How to Treat and Get Rid of Cold Sores

Some alternative treatments may aid in managing cold sores. Supplements and herbs can potentially reduce outbreak frequency. Consider these alternative options:

• Lysine supplements can help shorten outbreaks. Lysine also comes in a cream or in capsule form.
• Lemon balm. Research has shown that lemon balm extract can help cold sores heal faster.
• Licorice root contains antiviral properties that might speed up recovery.
• Peppermint Oil. Research shows that peppermint oil may help treat cold sores. It works by affecting the herpes simplex virus (HSV) before it can infect host cells.
• Propolis is a resin made by bees from tree buds, is also used as an efficient cold sore treatment.
• Honey. Evidence suggests medical-grade honey is also a good option. A BMJ Open randomised trial: kānuka honey vs 5% aciclovir, found that Kanuka honey worked like 5% aciclovir cream. Both treatments healed lesions in about 8 to 9 days. A smaller study looked at a special honey treatment called L-Mesitran. This study found it healed wounds faster than regular treatments.
• Vitamin C and vitamin E. Research has shown that both of these essential vitamins play a significant role in effectively combating cold sores
• Stress reduction. Taking proactive steps to reduce your stress levels can significantly contribute to preventing the outbreak of cold sores. Consider adding practices like meditation or deep breathing to your daily routine. If you want an easy plan for this, check out our simple daily stress relief routine.

How to Soothe Cold Sores

Cold sores can cause discomfort, but soothing techniques can help. Applying a cold compress provides relief and reduces swelling. Aloe vera can also soothe the area and promote healing. It is essential to be gentle and avoid irritating the skin further.

Managing cold sores is easier with a few simple tips. Keep the area clean and avoid picking at the sore. Here are some suggestions:

• Use a mild, soothing lip balm that is natural and made with organic ingredients.
• Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected area. Research suggests the gel may help combat viruses, including herpes simplex.
• Use ice to alleviate the pain. Apply a cold compress to the affected area. Avoid placing ice directly on your skin.
• Make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to avoid the risk of dehydration.

What to Avoid During an Outbreak

Certain habits or behaviours could trigger an outbreak or make them appear elsewhere on your body.

• Don’t touch (except to apply treatment). When you do, wash your hands before and after to stop the virus from spreading.
• Don’t pop the blisters. The virus spreads most easily after a cold sore shows up on your lip and before it heals. Popping the sores can spread the virus to other areas of your body.
• Avoid acidic or salty foods if it makes your cold sore feel worse.

Recommended Lip Care Products (e.g. Lip Balms)

Regular use of quality lip care products can aid in managing cold sores effectively. Opt for a lip balm that provides moisture and soothing relief. Below are some recommended types.

Calendula oil lip balm comes from marigold flowers, known for their soothing and healing benefits. This lip balm is made to moisturise dry and chapped lips. It keeps your lips soft, smooth, and hydrated. Using a lip balm with Calendula oil in your daily routine will keep your lips healthy and nourished.

When searching for the best lip balm, choose one that contains beeswax. It is important to find a product that protects, nourishes and hydrates. Beeswax creates a protective barrier on the skin, helping lock in moisture while shielding the lips from harsh elements like wind and cold weather.

Lip balms with natural oils, like coconut oil and castor oil, offer many helpful benefits. These oils are known for moisturising and nourishing the skin. When added to lip balms, they can soothe dry or irritated skin and improve its texture.

If you want these soothing benefits in one product, try our natural lip balm. It is made with organic calendula oil, beeswax, and castor and coconut oils.

Important: Avoid using someone else’s lip balm or letting others use yours during an outbreak.

Conclusion

Understanding how to get rid of cold sores and manage outbreaks early can reduce pain and discomfort. This can reduce pain and discomfort. When you act early with the right remedies, you can reduce symptoms and help heal faster. Good hygiene and healthy habits can help prevent them. If you have ongoing or serious issues, it is best to talk to a healthcare professional for tailored advice.