Itching, burning, or tingling sensations on the face can signal more than just skin irritation. Cold sores—caused by the herpes simplex virus—are among the most common facial infections, affecting the lips, nose, or even the eyes. Understanding causes, triggers, and treatment helps manage outbreaks and limit transmission.
Facial herpes is a viral infection caused by herpes simplex viruses. HSV-1 is most often transmitted through direct contact with mucous membranes or objects contaminated with saliva. It is the primary cause of oral, labial, and ocular herpes (cold sores), and may occasionally cause genital herpes after oral–genital contact. HSV-2, meanwhile, is mainly sexually transmitted.
Primary infection typically occurs in early childhood (6 months–4 years), often through a kiss. In nine out of ten cases, the first infection goes unnoticed and remains latent. By adulthood, 70–90% of people have been exposed to HSV-1, but not all will ever develop cold sores.
Triggers for Herpes Outbreaks
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