Eventually a cold sore will heal by drying up and forming a yellow-brown crust. This crust falls off over a few days and does not leave a scar. The cold sore should have completely disappeared in 10-14 days after it began. However the virus will stay in your body till it is triggered again. The cold sore virus can be spread very easily, even from the time the tingling sensation begins.
Women can spread it from their lip area to their eyes when applying or removing make-up.
Even sharing utensils with someone who has a cold sore can spread the virus. Self Care pharmacists advise people to wash their hands thoroughly after bathing or treating a cold sore. Cold sores can't be cured but treatments are available that will help relieve symptoms like the pain. The ideal time to treat cold sores is when you get that tingling sensation before the cold sore appears. Self Care pharmacists can advise you about the different treatments available and suggest the most appropriate one for you.