A: Lip Filler Triggers and Cold Sores: What You Should Know
Lip fillers potentially causing cold sores. Cold sore risk increase after lip augmentation?
Ever wondered if a lip filler could ignite a cold sore? Well, here's the lowdown!
If you're susceptible to cold sores (herpes simplex virus), you might notice that certain things can kickstart the virus. In the mix, stress, weather, chemicals, and lip injury can all set off the virus in your body. For those sensitive souls, needle punctures can be a significant trigger for cold sores [1]!
Now, before we dive any deeper, let us clarify that lip fillers themselves don't induce cold sores. But the injection process may cause issues for those prone to cold sores [1].
Here's a quick tip: Your dermatologist needs to know about your cold sore history before scheduling or executing a lip enhancement treatment. If you're vulnerable to those pesky outbreaks, you'll likely be prescribed an antiviral medication, like valacyclovir (Valtrex®), to begin taking a day or two before the procedure. This meds will help to ward off a flare-up, even if you don't have an active cold sore at the moment.
Keep in mind that the risk of developing a cold sore from a lip filler procedure is highest one to two days after the injection.
While it's possible to get a lip filler and experience no cold sore repercussions, it's wise to err on the side of caution and lower the odds.
Shilpi Khetarpal, MD chimes in: "The best strategy is to inform your provider about any cold sore history and follow their advice for minimizing risk during the procedure" [1].
Pro Tip: Stay aware of factors that can set off cold sores. In addition to injury from procedures, triggers can include trauma, stress, sun exposure, and illness [2][3][4].
To lower the odds:- Inform your provider: If you have a cold sore history, share it with your injector.- Antiviral medication: Taking antiviral drugs like valacyclovir can help prevent outbreaks. Your doc may recommend popping a pill a day or two before the procedure and continuing after the treatment.- Limit sun exposure: Avoid sun exposure before and after the procedure to reduce the risk.- Stay healthy: Rest well and steer clear of stress as much as possible.- Proper post-procedure care: Stick to your healthcare provider's post-treatment instructions to minimize the risk of complications.
[1] Shilpi Khetarpal, MD[2] Research: Trauma and the Herpes Simplex Virus[3] Research: Cold Sore Triggers and Prevention[4] Research: Sun Exposure and Cold Sore Outbreaks
- The weather can be a cold sore trigger for some individuals, as intense sunlight or cold temperatures may cause outbreaks.
- In addition to stress and lip injury, certain medical-conditions, such as neurological disorders and skin-care issues, might also lead to cold sore outbreaks.
- History has shown that stress can exacerbate the symptoms of many health-and-wellness conditions, including cold sores.
- Science provides us with various therapies-and-treatments for managing medical-conditions like cold sores, migraines, and other neurological disorders.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, including the health of the skin and the body's ability to fight off infections like the herpes simplex virus.
- Mental-health issues, such as stress and depression, can affect a person's susceptibility to cold sores and other health issues, highlighting the importance of mental well-being for overall health.
