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eat well
Bin the junk and cram in the healthy stuff. Eat a balanced, varied diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.
watch out on holidays
Take sun cream and sun block for the lips (to help moisturise and protect against U.V.) when you’re heading for the beach or the slopes.
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keep it clean
Wash face twice a day with a mild soap and wash hands thoroughly after touching or treating a cold sore.
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be careful
When you’re washing your face or applying make up, don’t spread the infection from your lips to your eyes – and watch out if you use contact lenses too. Don’t ever use saliva to wet your lenses!
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get some sleep!
Stack up on the ZZZZs when you can, it boosts your immune system.
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keep living your life!
Although cold sores may be painful they don't last forever and they're not life threatening.
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cover up
Cosmetic concealing sticks (ideally with a sunblock) are really effective. But remember, if you use one, don't share it and don’t reuse it after the cold sore’s gone.
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slather on the Zovirax
Not only does it keep your cold sore moisturised, the antiviral ingredient can stop the virus reproducing and helps it clear up faster.
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ask for advice
It is always wise to check with your pharmacist before putting anything on cold sores, as some things can just make them worse.
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take care of your lips
Any type of damage to your lips can make you more vulnerable to a cold sore.
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keep out of cold winds
Wrap up well – wind-burn can also damage your lips or face and make it easy for a cold sore to take hold.
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share
Things like towels, glasses or plates shouldn’t be shared. These can all spread the virus through contact with your saliva.
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kiss
Kissing’s off the agenda or you’re very likely to pass on the virus. Be really careful around anyone who’s ill, pregnant or has eczema.
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fool around
Be careful when you have sex - if you kiss your partner, they could get a cold sore too. As for oral sex, don’t do it. If the cold sore hasn’t healed completely, you could give your partner genital herpes.
