Most cold sores heal in about 1 to 2 weeks, while a very first outbreak can take 2 to 3 weeks.
The sore moves through predictable stages: a day or so of tingling or itching, then a blister, then an open sore that crusts and heals without scarring. A first infection is usually the longest and can come with fever, sore throat, and swollen glands, especially in children. Repeat outbreaks are triggered by things like illness, sun exposure, stress, or your period, and they tend to be shorter each time. Antiviral cream or pills started at the first tingle can trim about a day off an outbreak, so keep treatment on hand if you get cold sores often. Keep the area clean, avoid picking the scab, and use lip balm with sunscreen to lower your chance of the next flare.
How to heal a cold sore faster
Common questions
How long does cold sores last?
Most cold sores clear in about 1 to 2 weeks without treatment. They follow a pattern: tingling or itching for a day or so, then a blister, then an open sore that crusts over and heals without a scar. A first outbreak is usually the longest and can last 2 to 3 weeks, sometimes with fever, sore throat, and swollen glands. Later flare-ups tend to be shorter and milder. Antiviral treatment started at the first tingle, such as over-the-counter docosanol cream or prescription acyclovir or valacyclovir, can shorten an outbreak by roughly a day. You remain contagious until the sore has fully crusted and healed.