how to get rid of a cold sore scab

Guide on How to Get Rid of a Cold Sore Scab Fast

by
By Ruth Eze, 20/10/2019
As you might have known, cold sores pass through 5 stages (the tingling, blisters, weeping, scabbing and healing stage).
However, the scabbing stage of the cold sore seems to be the most difficult phase as it comes with an irresistible itchy temptation, pain and cracked surface.
But knowing how to get rid of a cold sore scab at that stage, facilitates the healing of the sore. 
A cold sore scab is a sign of healing and should never be removed. Instead, follow these out listed steps to facilitate the healing of the scab.

Guide on how to get rid of a cold sore scab fast

 

  • Never touch the crust unless while applying medication, because it can escalate the virus. 
  • Always wash your hands and towels used for medication before touching other parts of your body. 
  • Keep the affected area clean and moist: The scabbing stage of a cold sore can easily crack because of its dry nature.

 

  • Wash the affected area with soap and clean water, dry it with a towel and endeavor to wash the towel and your hands after use.
  • Use petroleum jelly on the scab: Applying petroleum jelly like Vaseline on the cold sore scab helps soften the scab, prevent bleeding and also fasten the healing of the blisters.
  • Use over-the-counter creams: The use of over the counter creams in cold sore treatment has been proven to be very effective. The creams help to soften the scab and also fasten the herpes healing.
  • Below are some of the effective creams you can use.
  • Docosanol (Abreva),
  • Zilactin
  •  zinc oxide or aloe vera ointment
For pain relief, use some anaesthetics like lidocaine or benzocaine which is present in Anbesol or Orajel to control the pains and also fasten healing of the sores.
You can also numb the place with natural remedies like ice and vanilla extract.
Warning
Cold sores are a contagious viral disease which is spread by mare contact. Wash your hands regularly with clean water and detergents. The cold sore crusting stage comes with itching temptations you must resist to speed up the healing of the herpes virus. 

Frequently asked questions on cold sore scab 

1. How long does a cold sore scab last?

The scabbing stage of a cold sore lasts for about 2 or 3 days and is accompanied by itching, cracking, bleeding, and burning in the affected area. The process continues until the scab rips off completely. 

2. Is it better to keep a cold sore scab moist or dry?

  • It is better to keep the scab moist during crusting stage to avoid cracking and bleeding. Always keep the place moist with Vaseline. 

3. When is cold sore healed enough to kiss?

You can kiss from a week up after the cold sore scab has healed completely, to avoid infecting your partner with the virus.

What is the fastest way to get rid of a cold sore scab?

The scab stage of a cold sore indicates that the lesion is almost healing, and to facilitates the healing,

  • You must keep the area neat
  • Avoid touching the area unless it’s during medication
  • Keep your place moist to avoid cracking
  • Apply petroleum jelly on the scab. 

Do all cold sores scab?

Yes, after the weeping stage of a cold sore, the body forms the scab to protect the openings from bacterial infection, and also speed up the healing process.

Share this post:

Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInShare on Reddit