Things You'll Need:
- 100% pure tea tree oil
- Sterile cotton swabs
- Black teabags
- Petroleum jelly
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Step 1
Tea tree oilApply two drops of tea tree oil to the end of a sterile cotton swab and apply directly on the cold sore. Repeat this process several times throughout the day, and in the evening before bedtime. Reports in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy show that tea tree oil contains anti-fungal and antibiotic properties. Not only does it aid in the cellular healing process of skin, but it fights bacteria that can cause infection as well.
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Step 2
Gently rub the scabbed area of the cold sore off with a soft wash cloth. This will help future applications of the tea tree oil penetrate deeper into the skin. After removing the scabs, reapply a drop of tea tree oil.
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Step 3
Apply petroleum jellyCover the cold sore during the day with a dab of petroleum jelly. This will also keep the cold sore from drying and cracking, and protect it from bacteria that could cause infection.
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Step 4
Boil a teabag in hot water for three minutes. When it is cool enough to touch, squeeze out excess tea and apply the teabag to the cold sore, keeping it in contact with it for at least 10 minutes. The compounds in tea leaves called "tannins" help to heal the skin and are also anti-inflammatory, which will bring down the swelling of the cold sore.
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Step 5
RelaxStress is a major trigger of cold sores, and finding a way to deal with the daily stressors of life is a must in not only treating cold sores, but also preventing them from returning. Walk, nap or do some yoga. Find what works for you and take time to do it.
