How to get rid of a cold sore quickly
Learn the fastest ways to treat cold sores, from at-home remedies to professional dental care options.
Cold sores have a habit of showing up at the worst times. Often painful and frustrating (and highly contagious), a cold sore makes you ask one question: “How do I make this go away fast?”
Cold sores are small blisters, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and typically appear around the lips and mouth. While they’re not harmful to your health, cold sores can bring discomfort, affect your confidence, and pose a risk of spreading to others.
Let’s cover everything you need to know about cold sores, including how to treat and prevent them effectively.
What is a cold sore?
A cold sore, or fever blister, is a small, fluid-filled blister (or a group of them) that usually pops up on or around the lips. These annoying sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), a common type of the herpes virus. The virus usually stays dormant in the body, but certain triggers can wake it up and cause an outbreak.
Here are a few quick facts about cold sores:
First outbreak
Cold sores typically heal in about 3 weeks during the first occurrence.
Recurring outbreak
Later outbreaks tend to clear up faster, often within 1 to 3 weeks.
Highly contagious
Cold sores can spread through direct contact, even if the skin or saliva looks normal and there’s no visible sore.
Symptoms of cold sores
Cold sores don’t usually show up out of nowhere—you’ll often get a few warning signs first. Here’s what to watch for:
Tingling or burning: You may feel this around your lips or mouth before a visible sore forms.
Itching and redness: A telltale sign that the sore is developing.
Fluid-filled blisters: These are small, painful blisters that show up in clusters around your mouth.
Oozing or crusting: Blisters may break open, ooze some fluid and then scab over as they heal.
Pain and discomfort: Cold sores can make eating or talking uncomfortable.
Flu-like symptoms: Sometimes you’ll also feel a little under the weather—think mild fever, fatigue or swollen lymph nodes.
What causes cold sores?
The herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) is the primary cause, but the virus often needs a trigger to reactivate. Here are some common triggers:
Stress: A weakened immune system during stressful times leaves you more vulnerable.
Illness: Colds or the flu can deplete your body’s resources, triggering cold sores.
Sun exposure: UV rays can irritate the sensitive skin around your lips.
Cold weather: Dry, cracked lips from wind or cold air create the perfect environment for cold sores.
Fatigue: A lack of sleep makes it harder for your body to fight off the virus.
Skin injuries: Cuts, scratches or irritation from dental work can set off an outbreak.
Weakened immune system: A compromised immune system has a harder time keeping HSV-1 dormant.
Are cold sores contagious?
Cold sores are highly contagious, especially when they are visibly present or have just burst open. The virus spreads primarily through direct contact with the sore, saliva or affected skin. Be careful with shared utensils, lip products or even kisses during this time.
Topical creams
The trick is to catch the sore early. As soon as you feel that tingle or see redness, apply an over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription cream. These can ease symptoms and help the sore heel faster.
Antiviral medications
If you start taking antiviral meds early enough, they can shorten recovery time and even help prevent future outbreaks. If cold sores are a regular issue for you, it’s worth talking with your healthcare provider about getting a prescription.
Lifestyle tweaks
Sometimes, little changes can make a big difference. Try these tips:
Get 7-8 hours of sleep nightly to keep your immune system strong.
Practice stress relief techniques like journaling, exercise or meditation.
Use SPF lip balm to protect your lips from harmful UV rays.
Boost your immune system
Your immune system is your best defense against cold sores. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet full of nutrients and consider adding immune boosters like Vitamin C to your routine.
Ways to ease cold sore discomfort
While your cold sore heals, you don’t have to suffer through endless itching or pain. Here are some simple ways to feel better and even help the healing process along:
Cold compresses: A cold cloth or ice pack can help reduce swelling and calm the pain.
Aloe vera gel: Its soothing, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties can work wonders on symptoms.
Honey: Raw or medical-grade honey can keep the area moisturized and help it heal faster.
Numbing gels: Over-the-counter gels are great for quick, temporary relief from soreness.
Avoid spicy or acidic foods: These can irritate your sore and make things worse.
Stay hydrated: Drinking lots of water helps your body heal from the inside out.
Keep up with oral hygiene: Brush, floss and rinse daily to maintain good oral health.
Don’t touch: One more quick tip—don’t touch the sore! It can slow down healing and even spread the virus to other parts of your body or to someone else.
Cold sore FAQs
What’s the difference between cold sores and canker sores?
Cold sores are caused by HSV-1 and are contagious. Canker sores, on the other hand, happen inside the mouth, aren’t caused by a virus and are not contagious.
How long does a cold sore take to heal?
On average, it takes 1-3 weeks for a cold sore to heal. First outbreaks may take longer, while recurring ones often heal faster.
Why do cold sores seem to appear out of nowhere?
Triggers like stress, illness or sun exposure can reactivate the virus, making it seem like cold sores appear out of nowhere.
What conditions mimic cold sores?
Sometimes, other conditions might be mistaken for cold sores.
These include:
Allergic reactions: Swelling or irritation caused by allergens.
Angular cheilitis: Cracks or sores at the corners of the mouth, often from dryness or infection.
Impetigo: A bacterial skin infection that can cause blisters or sores around the mouth.
If you're unsure what you're dealing with, your dentist can help you identify the cause and recommend the right treatment.
Take action on cold sores today
Cold sores are aggravating, but they’re manageable with the right care. Taking quick action can prevent them from getting worse, make you more comfortable, and reduce the likelihood of spreading them to others.