Cold sores—those small, often painful blisters that can appear around the lips—are a common problem, yet they come with a lot of misinformation and harmful, untrue stigmas. At Coverology, we believe it's time to clear the air! Let’s debunk some of the most persistent myths about cold sores and give you the facts you need to know.
Myth: Cold sores are the same as canker sores.
The Facts: Although they’re often confused, cold sores and canker sores are not the same. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and typically appear outside the mouth, on the lips or around the nose. Canker sores, on the other hand, are small ulcers that occur inside the mouth and are not caused by the herpes virus.
So, if you have a blister outside your mouth, it’s likely a cold sore—if it's inside, you’re dealing with a canker sore.
Myth: You only get cold sores if you're sick.
The Facts: While illnesses like colds or flu can trigger an outbreak (hence the name "cold sore"), you don’t have to be sick to develop one. Cold sores can be activated by various factors like stress, sun exposure, hormonal changes, and even fatigue. So, even when you're feeling perfectly healthy, those annoying blisters can make an appearance.
Myth: Cold sores are always contagious.
The Facts: Cold sores are contagious, but only at certain stages. They’re most contagious when the blister is open and weeping fluid. Once the sore has crusted over and begun healing, the risk of spreading the virus significantly decreases. However, HSV-1 can be passed even if you don't have an active cold sore, though it's far less likely.
Myth: You can only get cold sores from kissing.
The Facts: While cold sores are commonly spread through close contact like kissing, that's not the only way to contract them. Sharing lip products, drinks, or even towels with someone who has an active outbreak can spread the virus. It’s important to avoid sharing personal items during an outbreak to protect others.
Myth: Cold sores aren’t preventable.
The Facts: While there's no cure for HSV-1, cold sores can often be managed and even prevented with a few lifestyle changes. Incorporating immune-boosting foods like lysine, managing stress levels, and using SPF lip balms can all reduce the frequency of outbreaks. Prevention is possible with the right care and daily habits.
Myth: Once the sore heals, the virus is gone.
The Facts: Unfortunately, HSV-1 stays in your body for life. The virus can remain dormant for long periods but can reactivate at any time, often due to triggers like stress, illness, or sun exposure. That’s why ongoing care is crucial—even when you don’t have a visible cold sore.
Myth: Cold sores only affect the lips.
The Facts: While cold sores most commonly appear around the lips, they can show up in other places, like around the nose or even inside the mouth in some cases. The virus travels along your nerve pathways, so depending on your body's response, the sore may pop up in different spots.
Myth: You should pop a cold sore to help it heal faster.
The Facts: Never pop a cold sore! It may be tempting, but popping it can cause the virus to spread and slow down healing. Plus, it increases the risk of infection and scarring. Instead, let it heal naturally and use a cold sore treatment, like Coverology Cold Sore Treatment & Concealer, to soothe and conceal the sore while it heals.
Myth: Cold sores only affect people with poor hygiene.
The Facts: Although good skincare can help keep sensitive skin calm and less inflamed, cold sores have nothing to do with hygiene. The herpes simplex virus doesn’t discriminate based on how clean you are. Once you’ve contracted HSV-1, it can reactivate regardless of how well you take care of yourself. Proper hygiene can help prevent spreading the virus to others, but it’s not a cause of outbreaks.
Myth: All cold sore treatments are the same.
The Facts: Not all treatments are created equal! Some products only focus on covering the sore, while others aim to treat the virus. Coverology Cold Sore Treatment & Concealer is a 2-in-1 formula that soothes your skin while providing full, buildable coverage. Plus, its waterproof barrier ensures long-lasting protection and peace of mind.
Stay Informed, Fight the Stigmas
Cold sores are frustrating, but understanding the facts behind them can make managing outbreaks much easier. By debunking these common myths, we hope you feel more empowered to take control of your cold sore care routine.
At Coverology, we’re here to help you look and feel your best, even during a cold sore outbreak. Whether it’s treatment, coverage, or both, we’ve got you covered!