Having a bad cold is in itself quite uncomfortable, but if you end up with cold sores, it can not only be unsightly but also quite painful. Cold sores occur due to the Herpes simplex virus and can be difficult to treat. But there are many home remedies which can help you figure out how to get rid of cold sores. You can use a variety of household substances like milk to alleviate the condition. Dipping a cotton ball in a tablespoon of milk and applying to the area can give you considerable relief from a cold sore. Quick treatment of cold sores is essential to prevent these and factors like stress, excessive sun or wind abrasion to skin, a fever etc are also causal agents.

Cold sores on the lips can be treated and soothed by applying petroleum jelly. This substance softens the skin area affected by cold sores and its natural emmolients works to reduce the irritation. The layer of petroleum jelly also prevents further exposure to bacteria and prevents infection of the skin. Using this jelly helps prevent spread and further outbreak due to infection of a cold sore and it is quite highly recommended as a good remedy to help tackle this condition.

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Rubbing alcohol is another remedy to consider if you are wondering how to get rid of cold sores. It works opposite to the petroleum jelly in terms of its effects. It dries up a cold sore and a 70 percent solution of alcohol is ideal for use. A Q-tip can be used to apply this on the affected area and let it evaporate on its own. Regular application helps to address the condition immediately for best results in a short span of time.

Vanilla extract smells great and also adds flavour to foods. With potent anti-infection properties, cold sores aid in healing the viral infection quickly. It is important to use 100 percent pure vanilla extract rather than artificial vanilla. With potent anti-infection properties, pure extract of vanilla is known to have amazing effects in tackling and reducing cold sores in a short span of time. The process must be applied using cotton swab or a square of sterile gauze and the action can be repeated every six hours.

Tea tree oil is effective in drying out skin blemishes and helps to get rid of them fast in addition to its anti-septic properties. It also prevents the sores from growing bigger and can reduce it by as much as 50 percent overnight. The oil must be dabbed onto the affected area with a cotton ball twice a day and it can help to completely alleviate the condition in no time.

When applying these substances, be sure to use a sterile cotton gauze or Q-tip and also make sure you thoroughly clean the area before application gently. Greater abrasion can lead to cuts and scars. Make sure you pay heed to any skin irritation when applying any of these remedies and quickly address them to have the best results.