Cold sore and pimple: Are they any different?

Cold sore and pimples are both bothersome to most of us. Since, in some cases, a cold sore resembles a pimple, some people get confused between the two. Cold sores are lip blisters that sometimes appear out of nowhere. They're caused by a virus called herpes and can spread easily. Before they pop up, you might feel a tingle or a burn on your lip.

Pimples, on the other hand, are troublesome zits that can show up on your face or body. They're the result of clogged pores, usually because of excess oil and bacteria. Pimples can be red and swollen, and sometimes they hurt; however, they are not contagious, unlike cold sores.

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What is the difference between a cold sore and pimple?

Cold sore and pimple (Image via BOY_ANUPONG/Getty Images)

What's Behind it

Cold Sore: Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), mainly HSV-1, and less commonly herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). They frequently occur in patches and affect the mouth or genitalia.

Pimple: Too much sebum production and the formation of dead skin can lead to the development of pimples. Pimples often pop up on one's face due to hormonal changes or a bacterial infection as well.

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Where They Pop Up

Cold Sore: Cold sores frequently appear around the lips, but they can also occur inside the mouth and eventually spread to the face.

Pimple: Pimples can show up anywhere on your skin—your face, back, chest, shoulders—you name it. But unlike cold sores, they don't target the lips.

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What They Look Like

Cold sore and pimple (Image via BOY_ANUPONG/Getty Images)

Cold Sore: Cold sores show up like a bunch of blisters, all filled with fluid which makes it uncomfortable for you before they burst, scab, and finally take their leave.

Pimple: Pimples show up as small red bumps with a white or yellow center. These are cyst-like bumps beneath your skin's surface.

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The Telltale Signs

Cold Sore: Cold sores cause a tingling or burning sensation. They can be painful and even itchy on your lips.

Pimple: Pimples, on the other hand, may cause discomfort if they get irritated, but they will not cause tingles or burns.

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Spreading

Cold sore and pimple (Image via BOY_ANUPONG/Getty Images)

Cold Sore: These are highly contagious, especially when they appear in the form of blisters. They can spread from one person to another, so try not to use the utensils or towels used by someone who has a cold sore.

Pimple: Unlike cold sores, pimples aren't contagious. They will remain on your skin until one wonderful morning when they burst.

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How to get rid of cold sore and pimples when they show up?

For Cold Sores

Medications: You can head to the pharmacy for creams such as docosanol or even get prescription antiviral medications (like acyclovir or valacyclovir) from your doctor. These can help tame cold sores if you catch them early.

Soothe the Pain: To ease the discomfort, try using creams with zinc oxide or lidocaine.

Cold sore and pimple (Image via BOY_ANUPONG/Getty Images)

Know Your Triggers: Cold sores have triggers like stress and sunlight, and certain foods can set them off. So, try to recognize these triggers and avoid them in any manner you can.

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For Pimples

Clean Up Your Act: Wash your face gently with a friendly cleanser, but don't overdo it. No one likes an aggressive scrubber.

Over-the-counter Help: You can grab some over-the-counter creams such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, as they help stop the production of sebum.

Cold sore and pimple (Image via BOY_ANUPONG/Getty Images)

Beauty Products: Look for makeup and skincare products that are "non-comedogenic." They won't clog your pores and make things worse.

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In the end, whether dealing with cold sores or pimples, seeking appropriate care and adopting a healthy skincare routine can go a long way in managing and preventing these common skin concerns.