Simple things you can do to ease discomfort during a cold sore outbreak:

  • Apply a cold sore cream2
    VIRASOLVE® Cold Sore Cream has a 3-way action to relieve the symptoms of unsightly cold sores.
  • Apply a cool compress2
    A cool, damp cloth may help to reduce redness, remove crusting and promote healing.
  • Use lip balms and cream2
    If your lips become dry, apply a moisturising cream or lip balm.
  • Use sunscreen2
    As sunlight can trigger the cold virus, protect your lips from UV light with sunblock.

Simple things you can do to reduce the risk of spreading cold sores to other parts of your body and to other people:

  • Avoid skin-to-skin contact with others
    Particularly babies, young children and people with compromised immunity.2
  • Keep your hands away from your eyes
    Do not touch your eyes after touching your cold sore.2 The cold sore virus can cause eye infection, which requires immediate medical attention.1
  • Keep your hands clean
    Only touch the cold sore to apply treatment and always wash your hands afterwards.2
  • Avoid sharing items
    Do not share any utensils or equipment that your saliva or blister has touched (e.g. drinking glasses, lip balm, cutlery, towels).2

1. Better Health Channel. Cold Sores Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/cold-sores (accessed 17/11/17).

2. Mayo Clinic. Cold sore. 2015. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cold-sore/basics/causes/con-20021310?p=1 (accessed 14/11/17).