If you have only recently started developing cold sores, it can be difficult to tell the difference between an outbreak of HSV-1 and other causes of lesions, discomfort or discolouration – for example, impetigo, acne, dermatitis or canker sores.
In the post below, Herstat, makers of a clinically proven propolis-based cold sore treatment, take a look at how to differentiate between a cold sore and another unsightly annoyance – an ingrown hair.
Spotting an ingrown hair
Hair should and, fortunately, most of the time does, grow upwards from the hair follicle and out and away from the body. However, hair can also curve back around and grow back into the follicle, burrowing under the skin. This can cause irritation and inflammation and lead to the development of the blisters which are so regularly mistaken for cold sores.
These blisters, known as pseudofolliculitis barbae, can cause pronounced pain and can become infected. In some cases, they may become so severe that they require treatment with antibiotics and cause scarring.
Cold sore or ingrown hair
You are more likely to be suffering from an ingrown hair if:
- The irritation develops within two days of shaving or following a period of friction.
- You can see a hair just under the surface of the skin.
- You have very curly or tightly coiled facial hair.
Preventing an ingrown hair
You can reduce your vulnerability to ingrown hairs by ensuring good hygiene and taking a few simple steps when shaving. For example, before you start, ensure you have a clean, sharp razor, wash your face and use an exfoliator. Once you are shaving, pull your skin taut and only ever move the blade ‘against the grain of the hair’.
How to treat an ingrown hair
If you have an ingrown hair, keep the area clean and do not ever be tempted to squeeze or pick the site – doing so can cause infection. See your GP, who may help to remove the ingrown hair and/or prescribe a retinoid cream and steroids. In the case of a bad infection, you may be prescribed antibiotics.
Conclusion
If you cannot tell the difference between an ingrown hair and a cold sore, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice – it would be a mistake to waste cold sore cream by applying it to an ingrown hair or to try and excavate a non-existent hair from a cold sore.
