All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through links in this article.
Do you know how to tell the difference between acold sore vs. a pimple on your lip?
Getty Images / Design by Bella Geraci.
What is a cold sore and what are its causes?
“But atruecold sore is a spot or blister resulting from the herpes simplex virus-1, or HSV-1.”
These viruses are commonly known as oral herpes.
A pimple at the edge of a person’s lip.
In other words, cold sores like to kick you when youre down.
These sores often appear in clusters and tend to crust or scab over before they heal.
What are the early signs of a cold sore?
This is known as the prodromal phase in the herpes simplex virus.
“Usinglip balms with sunscreencan also help prevent cold sores assun exposure can cause these spotsto appear.”
She recommends Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm or EltaMD UV Lip Balm for soothing and moisturizing sun protection.
Allure editors also love Colorescience Lip Shine SPF 35 for sun protection with added color and shine.
A pimple at the edge of a person’s lip.
Like cold sores, pimples canhelpfullyappear during times of emotional and physical stress (just what you needed!
A pimple at the edge of a person’s lip.
Dont worry, hereshow to cover every punch in of pimple), but the similarities stop there.
(If you need motivation to stay on top of yourskin-cleansing routine, there you have it.)
Unfortunately, pimples dont have the same tell as cold sores you cant always feel them coming.
A cold sore at the edge of a person’s lip.
But Dr. Evans says anacne spot treatmentwith benzoyl peroxide can help prevent brewing pimples from reaching the surface.
How do you know if it’s a pimple or a cold sore?
A cold sore at the edge of a person’s lip.
Both breakouts tend to come with some swelling and inflammation of the lip (hey, freelip lift!)
which can be uncomfortable.
From there, “location is helpful with distinguishing acne from cold sores,” says Dr. Friedman.
It’s highly unlikely that a single, stand-alone bump is a cold sore.
Can you squeeze a cold sore like a pimple?
), but skin experts say its not a good idea.
Popping your cold sore could prolong the healing time and leave a permanent mark.
How do cold sore and pimple treatments differ?
“Cold sores and pimples are not the same,” says Dr. Evans.
“Topical acne medications like Differin can help prevent pimples from appearing,” says Dr. Evans.
“Tretinoin is also very helpful to prevent acne around the lips and mouth.”
“Cold sores can be treated with over-the-counter antiviral medications like Abreva cream,” says Dr. Zeichner.
“Prescription antivirals like Valcyclovir can prevent a cold sore from appearing,” says Dr. Evans.
“From there, topical treatments like Abreva may be helpful.”
If youre going the preventative route, Dr. Evans says sun protection is the most effective tactic.
“Using lip sunscreen and avoidingsunburn on the lipsis a great way to prevent a cold sore breakout.”
How long do pimples and cold sores last?
After that first time, it will typically resolve itself in a week or two, says Dr. Shah.
She also says cold sores commonly reoccur in the same area.
But pimples can pop up anywhere, anytime.
Pimples and cold sores can both be considered chronic conditions.
Because HSV-1 is a virus, its never fully eradicated from the body.
Pimples, on the other hand, generally become chronic based on a person’s genetics and hormonal makeup.
What are the psychological impacts of cold sores and pimples?
Unfortunately, pimples and cold sores can also becausedby anxiety and stress a true vicious circle.
And the majority of the global population (67%) have HSV-1, though not everyone displays symptoms.
While annoying (and sometimes embarrassing), they can be pinpointed and treated accordingly.
Talk to your doctor or dermatologist to find the right treatment solution for you.
