Cold sores

Cold sores are most often found as small round blisters around the mouth, usually on the edge of the lips. They can last up to 10 days and often start with a tingling, itching or burning sensation.

Caused by the herpes simplex virus, typically cold sores do not appear straightaway after infection but some time later and will keep coming back. 

Signs and symptoms:

As well as the small, fluid-filled sore(s) on the lip, you may also have swollen glands.

You may find that you develop cold sores in the same place every time you suffer an outbreak. They don’t usually leave any scars but can be uncomfortable and painful. After the telltale tingling cold sores often scab over. They usually disappear within a week or so. 

Lifestyle tips: 

No treatment can get rid of the herpes simplex virus so try to take exercise regularly and eat healthily to keep your immune system strong.

If you have a cold sore then make sure to use a separate towel for your face only to prevent contamination as they can spread easily. Do not scratch or pick at the cold sore as you may be spreading the infection and increase the healing time. 

Keep lips protected from the sun.

Some find lifestyle triggers include stress so try to reduce the amount in your life.

Diet tips:

Eat lots of foods containing vitamin C, including oranges and green vegetables. 

Avoid eating acidic or salty foods as these may aggravate a cold sore or make them painful. 

Akoma recommends:

As soon as you feel a cold sore begin, apply antibacterial products to the affected area to stop the infection spreading. 

Akoma Tea Tree Essential Oil is filled with the antibacterial ingredients that treat the staphylococcus bug responsible for causing many skin infections. Use it directly onto the cold sore a couple of times a day to help its recovery.

If you’d prefer a more neutral smelling product, Akoma Grapefruit Seed Oil is full of natural antibacterial properties and is also antifungal, which will help reduce the size of the cold sore.