How To Get Rid Of Cold Sore Scars

Cold sores totally suck and the marks they potentially leave behind can be even worse, especially when you might feel like you'll never fully heal. Fortunately, I pulled together several of the most effective strategies for how to get rid of cold sore scars. Following these tips, you can be on your way to being cold-sore-scar-free skin soon!

If this is your first time encountering cold sores and scars, you're totally not alone. The World Health Organization recently shared that nearly two thirds of people have herpes, which translates to about 3.7 billion people with herpes worldwide. So, literally, you're actually in the majority.

How you initially treat the cold sore can minimize potential scarring, so talk with your doctor if it's your first outbreak to be on the safe side. But generally speaking, you'll want to not pick your cold sore (ever ever) and can turn to over-the-counter creams for cold sores to help treat them. If you really want to hide it, definitely check out this amazing tutorial for how to cover up a cold sore from fellow Bustle lady, Shea Simmons.

Once your outbreak is gone, follow the tips below to help fade scars as fast as possible. Remember, it's going to take a little time, though, so be patient.

1. Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E Capsules, $24, Amazon

Dr. Oz shared that Vitamin E capsules can be effective in fading cold sore scars. Simply crack open a capsule and apply the oil directly onto the scar daily for several weeks.

2. Fade Cream

Ambi Skincare Fade Cream , $8, A mazon

If the scar left behind from a cold sore is particularly dark, there are bleaching fade creams specifically designed to help fade scars. But if you have especially sensitive skin, I would recommend applying a small dot of cream to another part of your body to make sure you don't have an allergic reactions.

3. Gentle Exfoliators

Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub, $28, Nordstrom

Scrubbing your lips with a gentle exfoliator several times a week will help remove dead skin cells and gradually even out scars. Remember to emphasize the word "gentle" though, and try not to accidentally irritate your scar by rubbing it your hard.

Want more beauty tips? Check out the video below, and be sure to subscribe to Bustle’s YouTube page for more hacks and tricks!

Images: Ksenia Guzeeva / EyeEm/EyeEm/Getty Images; Courtesy of Brands