Can I do facial cleansing with cold sores?

Herpes infection, also known as a viral infection caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), is one of the primary contraindications for manual facial cleansing treatments. Herpes is a contagious disease that typically manifests as blisters located around the mouth, nose, or other areas of the face. During the active phase of the infection, the skin is particularly sensitive, and any procedures that interfere with its structure can lead to serious complications.

During manual facial cleansing, there is a risk of damaging the skin, which can result in the spread of the virus to other areas of the face and mucous membranes (such as the eyes, nose, or mouth). Additionally, the virus can be transferred to cosmetic tools, posing a threat not only to the person undergoing the treatment but also to other clients and the professionals performing the procedure if proper hygiene protocols are not maintained.

Apart from the risk of further infection, additional skin irritation caused by the cleansing process may aggravate herpes symptoms such as redness, itching, pain, and swelling. This can also prolong the healing process of the lesions and potentially lead to scarring or discoloration of the skin.

For these reasons, individuals with active herpes are advised to refrain from any invasive facial treatments until the lesions have fully healed. In cases where skincare treatment is necessary, alternative, less invasive methods should be considered, such as gentle skin hydration, soothing treatments, or a consultation with a dermatologist. It may also be beneficial to introduce appropriate antiviral therapy (e.g., ointments or oral medications with acyclovir) to speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.

Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure with active herpes, it is essential to consult with a cosmetologist or dermatologist to ensure both the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

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