- Avoid physical contact with the
cold sore area. Touching, rubbing, and scratching
cold sores can not only increase bacterial infection but also unwittingly spread the virus to other areas of the face and possibly infect other persons.
- Clean the cold sore with a washcloth, soap, and warm water. This will minimize itching as well as prevent the virus from spreading.
- Avoid salty and acidic foods like lemon and potato chips as these will aggravate cold sores and become more painful.