How to Get Rid of Herpes Blisters

Herpes blisters are sores that are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Once infected by this virus, it will remain dormant in your body for the rest of your life, causing occasional outbreaks of herpes blisters, usually around the lips and face. While it is impossible to get rid of herpes blisters permanently, there are several methods you can use to reduce the length and number of outbreaks.

Things You'll Need

• Washcloth
• Anti-bacterial soap
• Petroleum jelly
• Tea tree oil

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Instructions

• 1

  Soak a clean washcloth in hot water and then apply a small amount of anti-bacterial soap. Gently wipe and scrub the herpes blister with the washcloth. This kills bacteria around the blister and also cleans potentially infected puss off of the face. Be careful not to break the skin or irritate the blister in any way.

• 2

  Use petroleum jelly to seal the herpes blister. Petroleum jelly will reduce irritation, prevent further bacterial infection and help keep the herpes virus contained. Wash hands thoroughly with hot, soapy water, and then apply a generous portion of petroleum jelly to your finger. Rub the jelly on the skin directly surrounding the herpes blister. Slowly work your way inward to prevent spreading the virus to other portions of the face.

• 3

  Apply a small amount of tea tree oil to the herpes blister. Tea tree oil can cleanse the blister and fight any bacterial infections. Apply in the same way as the petroleum jelly, working inward to prevent spreading the virus.

• 4

  Identify the factors that trigger herpes blister outbreaks. These factors are specific to everyone with herpes, and can range from stress and anxiety to salty food. Once you know the main causes of your outbreaks, you can predict when and if herpes blisters will occur. If you are in a lot of stress and you know that causes breakouts, begin taking medication to minimize the effects of the outbreak.

• 5

  Contact a medical professional immediately if the herpes blister lasts longer than 14 days. Prescription medications are available and are a potent way of eliminating herpes blisters. Most are topical creams that are applied in the same fashion as petroleum jelly.