Are you prone to cold sores also known as the herpes simplex virus? or have you heard that dermal filler or antiwrinkle injections around or in the lips can cause cold sores? Read on to find out your risk of developing a cold sore and the best way to prevent cold sores after lip filler.

How often do cold sores occur after lip filler?

Infections after filler or antiwrinkle are generally uncommon. Reassuringly the Herpes virus is actually estimated to be reactivated in only 1.45% of patients!

How can I prevent cold sores after lip filler?

There is currently no evidence that suggests dermal filler causes cold sores, however if you do have a history of cold sores it is important to let your injector know. It is not routine for all patients to be administered medication like valacyclovir prior to their procedure, however patients that have had multiple cold sores should advise their injector as they may recommend that you undergo a course of valacyclovir 3-4 days before and after your procedure to prevent cold sores. Using a great cosmetic injectables aftercare to keep lips well hydrated and maintained can further prevent cold sores occurring. The Arnicare team recommend applying the arnica healing balm before and after your lip filler procedure as it contains hyaluronic acid in addition to arnica which will maintain hydration and also reduce common side effects like bruising.


Your injector will conduct a clinical assessment prior to your procedure, looking for any signs of infection or current cold sores and will ask you about your history of cold sores. The skin is usually prepared with an antiseptic cream like our Arnicare clinical antiseptic cream to ensure antisepsis occurs prior to injecting into the area. Following the procedure (lip injections) the area is then massaged with the Arnicare antiseptic cream which works to disperse the product, reduce bruising and provide another barrier to prevent infection.


How is a cold sore diagnosed after lip filler?

The symptoms of a cold sore can be similar to that of an allergy to filler. Generally a cold sore will develop within 48hrs after your injection and appear as pain, swelling, redness, tingling and crusting of the area. Allergies to hyaluronic acid also occur within this time frame and have some of the same symptoms. If you are concerned it is best to notify your injector.


Treatment of a cold sore after lip filler

Generally cold sores after lip filler can be treated with acyclovir or valacyclovir as normal. Routinely it is important to avoid touching your lip area after injections as this can increase your risk of infection, if you have a cold sore it is important to avoid touching the area and ensure you wash your hands after application of any topical medication.