Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, go through several stages during their development and recovery. These stages typically follow a predictable progression, but the severity and duration of each stage can vary from person to person. The stages of a cold sore over the course of about 8 to 10 days.
Tingling or Itching (Prodromal Stage) | One or two days before the cold sore appears, most people feel a tingling or itching on the skin where they’re going to develop. You can also feel soreness, itching, and tingling on the skin. At this point the virus has reactivated and is multiplying through your skin cells. |
Blister Formation (Vesicle Stage) | After the tingling phase, small fluid-filled blisters form. These blisters are usually clear and can be quite painful. They may appear individually or in clusters. They typically look like red and small lumps filled with clear fluid, and they can be itchy and sore. Your body is beginning to fight the virus at this stage. In this stage, you can start to use Cold Sore Covers with hydrocolloid to help prevent spreading and reduce discomfort. |
Ulceration (Ulcer Stage) | Within a couple of days, the blisters burst, releasing clear fluid. This results in the formation of open sores. The sores are typically red and can be painful and sensitive. |
​Crusting (Crust Stage) | The open sores gradually begin to dry and crust over. The crust is yellow or brown and serves as a protective barrier. It's important not to pick at the crust, as this can lead to scarring or secondary bacterial infections. The fluid can dry and get crusty. As the fluid can contain the live herpes virus, and if you get it on your fingers you can transfer it to others and other parts of your face and body. |
Healing (Recovery Stage) | The crusts fall off, revealing new skin underneath. During this phase, the sore gradually heals. Some pink or red discoloration may persist for a while it heals but will fade with time. |
