Cold sores on the face are characterized by red patched fluid filled blisters, which may be solitary or found in clusters. Cold sores on the face often appear in the form of ulcers that are located along the upper or the lower lips. Eventually the blisters are covered with scabs as they start healing naturally. Repeating pricking on the scabs can result in formation of scar tissue.
Cold sores can appear anywhere on the body, however are frequently found on the face, surrounding the lips, chin, nose and the mouth. Cold sores on the chin are very embarrassing and also interfere with routine functions like eating and drinking.
What Causes Cold Sores On Chin?
Cold sores are caused due to herpes simplex virus. This virus has eight different strains; however two of the most common strains that cause cold sores include HSV1 and HSV2. While the virus is responsible for the cold sores, mental and psychological stressors act as triggers for the growth of the virus.
Experts suggest that under the effect of mental or psychological stressors, the internal hemostasis of the body gets disturbed, making body fluids acidic. The acidic environment is very congenial for the virus to grow and multiply, thereby resulting in cold sores.
In general the development of cold sores on the face can be classified into five stages,
- The first stage is characterized by the onset of the skin ailment. During this phase one may observe reddish discoloration on the skin around the chin.
- The second stage is associated with the formation of fluid filled blisters, which ranges from a few millimeters to a centimeter in size.
- The next stage is characterized by watery discharge from the blister and formation of ulcer on the skin. This stage is usually the most painful stage.
- The fourth stage is associated with the formation of crust or scab on the ulcer. The formation of scab is indicative of the healing process.
- In the final stage, the scab falls off and is replaced by new layer of healthy skin. If the scab is pricked on frequently, the scab is replaced with scarred tissue instead of healthy tissue.
Natural Home Remedies For Cold Sores
There are several simple home remedies and natural treatment options that can be helpful in the management of cold sores,
- Simple hygiene measures like washing the hands with soap can help prevent the spread of cold sores. Rubbing ice on the cold sore can also help in alleviating pain and burning.
- Local application of walnut oil or avocado oil is also considered useful. Both these oils are loaded with vitamin A and E which are essential for growth and health of collagen tissue.
- Some experts recommend local application of lemon juice on the cold sore. Cut a slice of lemon and place it on the cold sore. Lemon is loaded with vitamin C which helps boost the natural immune system and fights against cold sores.
- Local application of a paste of turmeric with raw honey is also very beneficial. Turmeric has anti-microbial properties while honey hastens the healing process.
- Apple cider vinegar can be used effectively for the treatment of cold sores, both topically and internally. Note that apple cider vinegar is very powerful and hence should be diluted before use. Add two table spoons of cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink about twice a day, till the sores fade off. Alternatively on can dab the cold sore with diluted apple cider vinegar.
- Homeopathic drug Apis Mel is very useful in dealing with cold sores and is useful especially in alleviating some of the symptoms like burning and itching.