How to Treat Type 1 Herpes on the Face

Most cases of cold sores, a blistering rash condition caused by infection with herpes simplex virus-1 (Type 1 herpes), do not require specific treatment or drugs that specifically target the virus. However, you can take several steps to relieve the symptoms. In the event of frequently recurring outbreaks, your doctor may recommend treatment with antiviral drugs to limit the activity of the virus; this reduces the number of outbreaks, which can be painful and embarrassing.

Things You'll Need

• Topical agents such as Zilactin
• Over-the-counter painkillers

Show More

Instructions

Managing Cold Sores

• 1

  Use topical lidocaine or benzyl alcohol (marketed under the brand name Zilactin) to help relieve the painful or irritating skin symptoms of cold sores. Always follow manufacturer's instructions and, if you are under the care of a physician, your doctor's advice.

• 2

  Manage pain associated with the condition using over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. The Mayo Clinic cautions that aspirin should not be used to treat cold sores in children because of the risk of Reye's syndrome.

• 3

  Experiment with temperature to help relieve your symptoms. The Mayo Clinic recommends the use of either ice or warm compresses to provide relief from active cold sores.

• 4

  See your doctor if you have frequent outbreaks. She may recommend that you go on daily antiviral medications to reduce your number of flareups. These drugs include acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir, and are very effective in preventing cold sores from occurring.