If you’ve ever experienced cold sores, you know how frustrating and unpredictable they can be. While some triggers, like stress or illness, are well-known, there are everyday habits you might not realize could be setting off those painful breakouts. At Coverology, we’re here to help you uncover the hidden triggers and arm you with tips to help prevent future outbreaks.
Skipping Sunscreen
Trigger: Sun exposure
We all love a good dose of sunshine, but did you know too much UV exposure can trigger cold sores? Sunburn weakens the skin and can awaken dormant cold sore viruses. Even if you’re just running errands, it’s important to use a lip balm with SPF. Keep those UV rays at bay with products like Coverology Cold Sore Treatment & Concealer, which acts as a barrier while offering protection.
Using Harsh Skincare Products
Trigger: Irritating ingredients
Certain skincare products that contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, or alcohol can dry out the skin around your lips and weaken your skin’s defenses, making you more prone to breakouts. Opt for gentle, hydrating formulas and avoid products that sting or irritate your skin.
Drinking Too Much Coffee
Trigger: Caffeine overload
While that extra cup of coffee may help you power through the day, caffeine can dehydrate your body. Dehydration weakens your immune system, increasing the chances of a cold sore outbreak. If you're a big coffee drinker, balance it with water and incorporate hydration-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.
Biting Your Lips
Trigger: Lip trauma
It’s a nervous habit for many, but biting or picking at your lips can actually trigger a cold sore outbreak. Even small cuts or chapped lips give the herpes simplex virus an opening to resurface. If you’re prone to this habit, keep your lips moisturized and apply a barrier product, especially during the colder months.
Eating High-Arginine Foods
Trigger: Certain foods
You may not realize it, but some of your favorite foods could be fueling your cold sores. Foods rich in arginine—an amino acid that helps the virus replicate—can increase the frequency of outbreaks. This includes chocolate, nuts, and grains. Try incorporating more lysine-rich foods, like fish, chicken, and dairy, which can counterbalance the effects of arginine.
Stress Eating
Trigger: Emotional stress
We’ve all been guilty of reaching for comfort food during stressful times, but did you know stress eating can set the stage for cold sores? When you’re stressed, your immune system is weaker, and emotional stress combined with poor nutrition can result in a breakout. Practice stress-relieving techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and regular exercise to help manage both stress and outbreaks.
7. Sharing Personal Items
Trigger: Cross-contamination
Cold sores are contagious, and sharing personal items like towels, razors, lip balm, or makeup can easily spread the virus. Even if someone doesn’t have a visible sore, they may still carry the virus. Be mindful of what you share and always keep your lip products to yourself.
8. Hormonal Fluctuations
Trigger: Hormonal changes
For many women, hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to cold sore outbreaks. These shifts in your body’s chemistry can lower your immune response, making it easier for the herpes simplex virus to resurface. While you can’t control your hormones, being aware of this trigger can help you be more proactive in prevention.
9. Lack of Sleep
Trigger: Sleep deprivation
Sleep is crucial for your body’s ability to fight off infections and manage stress. If you’re not getting enough rest, your immune system can weaken, making you more susceptible to cold sore flare-ups. Prioritize a good night’s sleep by creating a calming bedtime routine and avoiding screens an hour before bed.
10. Dehydration
Trigger: Lack of hydration
Dehydration doesn’t just affect your energy levels—it can also impact your skin’s health. When your skin is dry and cracked, it's more vulnerable to cold sores. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and using a lip balm that provides moisture and protection.
How to Take Control of Your Cold Sores
Being aware of these sneaky cold sore triggers can help you make simple lifestyle changes that could reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks. Small habits, like applying sunscreen, staying hydrated, and avoiding lip trauma, can make a big difference. And when an outbreak does happen, Coverology Cold Sore Treatment & Concealer can help soothe, protect, and conceal all at once.
Remember, cold sores are common, but by being mindful of your daily habits, you can take control and reduce the chances of future outbreaks!