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Can a Chemical Peel Cause a Cold Sore?
Any trauma (including laser or peels) can cause reactivation of cold sores. It is important that your plastic surgeon or dermatologist take a complete history including whether you have had cold sores. If you have you may be at increased risk for reactivation. Typically medications can be started prior to your treatments that will minimize the chance of reactivation.
Clinical Context
The herpes virus that causes cold sores stays dormant in the trigeminal nerve after a first infection. Skin trauma, including from a chemical peel, can trigger it to wake up. Because the trigeminal nerve supplies the mouth and nose, that's where reactivation usually shows up. People who get cold sores often are more likely to have a flare after a peel than someone who had a single outbreak years ago. Sharing your history lets your provider plan ahead.
