Cold sores are nasty little spots that pop up when you really don't want them to. They can be painful, irritating, contagious, and most importantly, cold sores can leave scars. Cold sores are the worst uninvited guest. One that pops up when you’re on your way to some amazing networking event. Their timing is impeccable. Cold sores can also pop up when you feel like life is getting to you and you can't stand anything else. You may have burned the candle at both ends, resulting in a sniffle, and all you wanted to do was relax with some Netflix, a snack, and a blanket, but now you have to pout and are annoyed. Your runny nose.
So, the most important question is: Do cold sores leave scars? As a cold sore veteran, I'm sad to report that in my specific case, they did. However, I always get cold sores in the same place. If you consider that I probably get two cold sores a year, and I've had them for about ten years, it's not surprising that I get about 20 cold sores in the same spot, so there's some slight scarring. On the plus side, though, the scar is so minimal that you'd probably only notice it if I pointed it out.
Since acne and chickenpox can leave scars, it's no wonder these annoying "fluid-filled sores" can also leave scars. The UK's National Health Service reports that "most cold sores go away without treatment within 7 to 10 days and usually heal without scarring." I believe the key word in this sentence is "usually". Like a particularly nasty pimple or chickenpox scab, the key is to resist the urge to pick at a cold sore scab. I know it 's really hard, especially if you have something really important planned like an important business meeting or a first date, but trust me, if you leave it alone, it will do wonders in the long run. It's in your favor.
Maybe you already have a mysterious mark on or around your lip area that you now realize could be a cold sore scar. Well, all is not lost if you find yourself with cold sore scars. Bustler Lindsey Rose Black researcher discusses available treatments for cold sore scars, including the use of vitamin E oil.
Moral of the story: Let sleeping dogs lie down and resist the temptation to pick at the scabs, or you may be dealing with cold sore scars.
Want more beauty tips? Watch the video below and be sure to subscribe to Bustle's YouTube page for more tips!
Image: AdinaVoicu , andiketaren , krystofos /Pixabay
