Comfort Measures

Reducing the discomfort from the symptoms of a herpes outbreak may be beneficial to the natural healing process. Providing comfort measures can also help soothe, ease, and calm the affected area.

Try these simple techniques to improve comfort of a herpes outbreak:

• Avoid tight fitting clothing, especially underwear, to prevent friction which will reduce pain and allow air flow to encourage healing.


• Keep the infected area clean and dry.


• Take warm showers or soak in a warm tub to soothe and cleanse the area... and to encourage blood flow to the sore, thereby increasing the body’s ability to heal.


• To dry the area after you shower or bathe, you can use a blow dryer set on cool, or pat gently with a towel.


• Try to be very gentle on and around the area, being too rough may break open the blisters.


• During a herpes outbreak do not douche or use feminine deodorant or sprays.


• Apply a cool moist cloth to soothe the affected areas