Oral Herpes: What You Need to Know
Read about the different types and prevention methods.
1 / 8
The 411 on Herpes - A Harlem woman recently sued MAC cosmetics for allegedly contracting oral herpes from a Rihanna-inspired lipstick applied at a pop-up shop at a concert in Brooklyn. What do you know about herpes? Read more about this virus, the different types and what you can do to prevent it.— Kellee Terrell(Photo: Courtesy of MAC Cosmetics)
2 / 8
Oral Herpes - Oral herpes sores are mostly caused by HSV-1 (cold sores), yet can be spread by HSV-2 (what we know as genital herpes). HSV-1 is not an STD, while HSV-2 is usually spread from sexual contact. But, it’s possible during oral sex for someone with HSV-1 to transmit herpes to someone's genitals and for someone with HSV-2 to spread the virus to someone’s mouth. (Photo: Getty Images)
3 / 8
Cold Sores - Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) occurs on or in the mouth and lips. HSV-1 is very contagious and transmitted through oral fluids or open sores on the mouth. Sores usually form, break open, crust and heal in a matter of a few weeks. For some, cold sores can be mild or extremely painful.
4 / 8
What Triggers Cold Sore Outbreaks? - For many folks with HSV-1, stress, being sick with the flu or even being on your period can trigger an outbreak. Exposure to the sun can, too, which is why it’s important to use sunscreen on your face and apply a lip balm with SPF. Most times, before an outbreak is coming, your mouth might tingle, itch or burn. (Photo: Fuse/Getty Images)
5 / 8
Treating HSV-1 - There is no cure for herpes. Some people allow for their cold sores to just heal on their own. But for those who want to speed up the healing process, there is treatment — over the counter meds such as Abreva and some prescription drugs — that can help. (Photo: Steve Cole/Getty Images)
ADVERTISEMENT
6 / 8
Preventing HSV-1 - Web MD suggests the following prevention methods: Avoid coming into contact with infected body fluids, such as kissing an infected person. Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinking cups, razors, toothbrushes or other items that a person with a cold sore may have used. Also, just touching your sore and then touching someone else can spread the virus.(Photo: Getty Images)
7 / 8
How Prevalent Is Oral Herpes? - The New York Times reported that a third of children living in lower income areas are infected with oral herpes, while 20 percent of middle class kids are carriers. Yet, by the time we all reach 60, about 60-85 percent of us — regardless of economic background — have it. Being a carrier doesn’t mean you necessarily have an outbreak or show any symptoms. (Photo: Jack Hollingsworth/Getty Images)
