Cold sore triggers: how to help prevent cold sores

The best way to deal with cold sores is to manage your triggers

Even if you have one or multiple cold sore triggers, these tend to fall within a few similar categories. Many of these suppress your immune system or cause damage to the mouth and allow the virus to attack.

By understanding what triggers your cold sores, you can you can proactively take charge, defend yourself against future outbreaks and help prevent cold sores.

Use our LipBot tool for further advice and support on cold sore triggers.

Cold weather

Winter is your cold sore season. Protect yourself from the elements. Wear a scarf or pull up that turtleneck to avoid exposure to cold weather, dry air and winter wind that can dry out lips. Use lip protectant to ensure your lips are moisturized.

How to put the freeze on cold sores

Excessive sunlight

Summertime is cold sore time for you. Go on the offensive against sun exposure. Not only can ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun damage your skin, but sun exposure can also trigger cold sores. So fight back by using lip balm with SPF, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and using a beach umbrella.

How to stay cold sore free this summer

All year round

Looks like you get cold sores all year round. In colder months, protect yourself from the elements. Wear a scarf or pull up that turtleneck to avoid exposure to cold weather. Use lip protectant to ensure lips are moisturized. In the summertime, avoid excessive sun exposure by using lip balm with SPF, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using a beach umbrella.

Learn how to protect yourself all year long

Stress

There’s a good chance your cold sores are caused by stress. Stress messes with emotions. But stress can also wear down your immune system, giving that dormant cold sore a chance to launch a sneak attack. Fight the urge to stress out. Instead, breathe deeply and relax.

Learn how reduce stress

Visiting the Dentist

If you suffer from cold sores, you know how stressful and frustrating they can be. Some people find visiting a dentist stressful which could serve as a trigger for a cold sore. On the other hand, visiting a dentist while you already have a cold sore may be a worry. In either case, make your dentist an ally and join forces to minimise the chances of an outbreak or spreading the virus.

Discover the link between dental work and cold sores

Fatigue

Your lack of sleep may be triggering your cold sore. In today’s hectic world, feeling “beat” can give cold sores the advantage. So relax. Exercise. And most of all, sleep. A good night’s rest can recharge your immune system and help protect you from the virus.

Want to get a good night’s sleep?

Fatigue

Your lack of sleep may be triggering your cold sore. In today’s hectic world, feeling “beat” can give cold sores the advantage. So relax. Exercise. And most of all, sleep. A good night’s rest can recharge your immune system and help protect you from the virus.

Want to get a good night’s sleep?

Weakened immune system

A fever, a cold or the flu can leave you feeling run-down and on the defense against a cold sore outbreak. When you feel a cold, fever or the flu coming on, listen to the experts and get plenty of rest and fluids. It could be just what you need to knock out a cold sore.

Want to give your immune system a boost ?

Hormonal changes

For women, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can trigger an outbreak. Pay attention to your own hormonal cycle and watch for signs of a cold sore so you can treat it early.

Learn more about hormonal changes

Target your triggers

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Caring for Cold Sores in Winter | Zovirax®

Cold weather, dry air and winter wind can dry out lips, leaving them vulnerable to cold sore outbreaks

All

Cold Sores From Sun: Summer Protection | Zovirax®

Ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin and trigger a recurrent cold sore

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Fatigue & Cold Sores | Zovirax®

Exhaustion can make you vulnerable to cold sores

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Help Prevent Cold Sores: Exercise & Stress | Zovirax®

Get active! Exercise is a proven stress-buster

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Help Prevent Cold Sores: How To Reduce Mental Stress | Zovirax®

Mental activities are wonderful for preventing cold sores

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