How to Eliminate Cold Sore Breakouts

The herpes virus is highly contagious and can spread through contact with an infected person. The virus causes lesions, known as cold sores, which develop in and around the mouth area. While there is no cure for cold sores, once you learn your personal triggers, you can ward off breakouts through lifestyle changes. Stress, fatigue, sun exposure and a weakened immune system all contribute to breakouts.

Things You'll Need

• Wide-brimmed hat
• Scarf
• Sunblock
• Lip balm

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor when you are experiencing a cold sore breakout. Your doctor can test the area to diagnose the sores and discuss treatment options. While you can't cure cold sores, topical and oral medications are available to accelerate healing.

• 2

  Alleviate stress through hobbies such as yoga, walking, art, reading or talking to friends. When your body is stressed, your defenses are less capable of fighting off infection. Find an activity that helps relieve your stress and try to engage in that hobby every day.

• 3

  Sleep at least eight hours every night. Fatigue is a major contributor to breakouts, so adequate rest is necessary to ward off a cold sore breakout.

• 4

  Avoid overexposure to the sun or cold. Wear proper clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat in the summer or a scarf in the winter, to keep your skin covered. Use sunblock with an SPF of 15 or higher to stay protected and keep your lips moisturized using lip balm.

• 5

  Eat well and exercise to keep your immune system strong and healthy. A nutritious, vitamin-rich diet and regular physical activity will strengthen your immune system to ward off breakouts.