The aftermath of herpes scars is often very unpleasant and mortifying for many people. A much better appearance of your skin can be greatly achieved by learning how to prevent, manage, and treat these ugly marks. The article will deal with the best methods for fixing scarring from herpes, present some valuable hints, and talk about the online skin consultancy services from Canada.
What is Herpes?
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a contagious disease that affects the skin or mucous membranes and causes herpes. It may take the form of sores (HSV-1) near the mouth or the genital area (HSV-2). Although the sores do fade away, it should be remembered that, considering the necessary attention they require, they may develop into scars if they are not extracted properly or cut open.
Can Herpes Cause Scarring?
Herpes sores can potentially result in scarring if they are not properly treated or if they are picked at frequently. Scarring from herpes is a possibility, especially if the sores become infected or if the individual has a condition that impedes healing.
Preventing Herpes Scars
Avoiding scar formation in the first place is the most effective herpes scar remedy. The following are some of the most effective methods that you can adhere to in order to prevent the formation of scars from herpes:
- It is best not to pick at sores, as doing so can cause additional infections and the formation of scarring from herpes.
- To keep the wound from becoming infected, dermatologists propose that it should be washed often with water and a soft, gentle soap.
- For the purpose of preventing herpes scars, antiviral medicines may be employed by the patient, thereby lessening the severity and duration of outbreaks.
- Keep the sores properly moist and encourage the healing process by using healing ointments containing zinc oxide or petroleum jelly.
Treating Herpes Scars
Have no fear, even if you already have herpes scars. There are a variety of treatment methods that are used to make these scars disappear. Discuss with a dermatologist to decide which method of treatment is most appropriate for you.
Topical Treatments
Usually, topical treatments are the first ones to be used when herpes scars are to be removed. Here are a few common choices:
- Silicone gel sheets can effectively help in flattening and making the scars less visible over time.
- Vitamin E oil, which the skin needs to heal, can be directly applied to herpes scars.
- Hydroquinone creams are both the solution to clearing your dark spots and evening out your skin tone.
![Vitamin E treat herpes scar](https://cdn.remotederm.ca/blog/wp-content/uploads/Vitamin-E-treat-herpes-scar.jpg)
Professional Treatments
Scarring from herpes can be so severe that a doctor’s help might be needed to remove the scars. The various alternatives are:
- Laser therapy involves the use of laser technology, which utilizes energy instead of heat to heat the skin; thus, the skin becomes warm, warms up the skin, and the skin has to get hot.
- On the other side, microneedling makes small openings in the skin with the help of very small needles. This activates the natural healing process in your body.
- By removing the uppermost skin layer, chemical peels contribute to the formation of new skin that is free from defects.
Natural Remedies
Some people prefer to stick to home remedies instead of over-the-counter pharmaceutical medications that might have negative side effects. Such remedies can not only properly cure the affected area but also decrease the inflammation, thus promoting the healthy growth of the skin.
- Aloe Vera is the most effective natural remedy for soothing the skin. It can also help wounds to heal and scar tissue to fade.
- Honey can prevent microbial growth and accelerate the healing process, as it actually possesses an antibacterial effect.
- Scarring from herpes can dramatically be improved by employing lemon juice, but apply with caution as it might cause your skin to then swell up and become red.
When to See a Dermatologist for Herpes Scars
You might consider visiting a dermatologist if your scars are very prominent or do not show any progress with over-the-counter drugs. Canadian online dermatology services such as RemoteDerm provide you with the opportunity to interact with an expert and have a skin therapy plan prepared specifically for your skin without having to visit them in person.
![Dermatologist for herpes scars](https://cdn.remotederm.ca/blog/wp-content/uploads/Dermatologist-for-herpes-scars.jpg)
Benefits of Online Dermatology
Online dermatology in Canada brings a number of benefits and has become one of the best alternatives for the treatment of herpes scars. Easy access is a key point among them; it is the ability to receive counseling from medical professionals in the privacy of your home. And it is the convenience that allows you to access dermatology treatment even if you are from a distant rural area. In addition, you will also get professional care when you talk with specialist dermatologists, who can offer the right methods of treatment.
Final Thoughts
It may be a really hard thing to overcome the after-effects of herpes scars on the skin of people, but it can be achievable by those who apply the right methods and use proper tools. Scarring from herpes is less likely to happen if you take precautions such as not scratching the sores, keeping the area clean, and taking antiviral medications. In case you are scarred, there are many treatment alternatives, from creams and professional treatments to natural remedies. Talking to a dermatologist can offer some effective solutions for people suffering from severe scarring from herpes. In Canada, online dermatology is available through many services. Thus, it is inevitably the simplest way to deal with your skin problems without having to go out. Being proactive today will bring about healthier and clearer skin tomorrow.
FAQs
1. Does herpes have an impact on pregnancy?
Yes, if the mother has an active outbreak, herpes can be passed on to the baby during birth. It’s imperative for women who are pregnant and have herpes to talk to their healthcare provider about their condition.
2. Can stress cause herpes outbreaks?
Definitely, stress can lead to immunity weakening, which makes herpes outbreaks much more likely. Stress relief with the help of relaxation techniques and by keeping up with a healthy lifestyle may cut down on the frequency and intensity of outbreaks.
3. How long do most herpes outbreaks last?
Herpes generally erupts for a period of a week to ten days. People can lie dormant without experiencing any symptoms for a long time; thus, the body tends to be strong enough to combat the virus on its own, and the medication one is on can sometimes assist in the duration of relapse.
4. If there are no visible herpes sores, can it still be contagious?
Yes, it is possible for herpes to transmit from one person to another even when there are no visible signs. This is recognized as asymptomatic shedding, where the virus can still be passed along to other people through skin-to-skin contact.