Cold sores are a common skin condition caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1), which manifests as small, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips. The primary concern when dealing with an active outbreak is the potential for transmitting the highly contagious virus, either to other people or to different parts of the body. While the blister is present, many people worry that showering could worsen the sore or facilitate viral spread. Fortunately, showering is generally permissible, provided a few careful steps are taken to protect the lesion and prevent transmission.
Showering Safely With an Active Cold Sore
The act of showering itself will not harm the healing process of a cold sore, as the virus is not spread through shower water. However, the direct environment of the shower requires modifications to your routine to prevent irritation and accidental spread. Use lukewarm water, as excessively hot water can increase blood flow to the skin, which may irritate the inflamed area or prolong swelling. Minimize the time the direct spray from the showerhead hits the cold sore, as the physical force of the water can cause the fragile blister to rupture prematurely.
Avoid using harsh soaps, body washes, or exfoliants directly on the sore, as chemicals and friction can cause pain and further tissue damage. If you need to clean the area, use a mild, unscented facial cleanser and gently cup the water onto the area rather than rubbing. Maintaining the integrity of the blister or the subsequent crust is important for a quicker recovery.
Preventing Transmission to Other Areas
The highest risk during an active outbreak is autoinoculation, transferring the virus from the cold sore to another part of your body, such as the eyes or genital area. The fluid inside the blisters is teeming with active viral particles and is most contagious when weeping. To prevent accidental spread, be mindful about hand placement while washing and rinsing your face and hair.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and immediately after touching your face or applying any treatment. Avoid using a communal washcloth or loofah on your face during a shower, as these items can harbor the virus and easily re-deposit it elsewhere. If you must wipe your face, use clean fingertips or a designated, disposable tissue to blot the area gently.
Do not share any personal items, including towels, until the cold sore has fully scabbed over and healed. Ensure that any towel used to dry your face is kept separate from towels used by others in your household. Placing your used face towel directly into a hot wash cycle immediately after use eliminates viral contamination.
Immediate Post-Shower Care
The moments immediately following your shower are important for securing the cold sore against further infection and encouraging the healing process. Instead of rubbing the lesion with a towel, gently pat the entire face and lip area dry using a clean, soft towel or a fresh paper towel. Rubbing can break the fragile skin or pull off the developing scab, which restarts the healing process and increases the risk of scarring. A dedicated paper towel is often the safest option, as it is discarded immediately after use, preventing any potential cross-contamination.
Once the area is dry, apply any prescribed or over-the-counter topical antiviral treatments, such as creams containing docosanol. These medications help to shorten the duration of the sore when applied consistently. Use a clean cotton swab for application to avoid contaminating the tube or jar of medication, and gently dab the treatment onto the lesion. Wash your hands one final time after application to remove any traces of the virus or medication from your fingers.