The main difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2 is the location in which they appear on the body. A majority of HSV-1 infections are oral herpes, transmitted through oral to oral contact. They mainly appear as blisters or lesions on the side of the mouth, known as cold sores. However, it is still possible to transmit the HSV-1 virus through oral sex, causing genital herpes or oral herpes (depending on who is carrying the infection).
HSV-2 is almost exclusively spread through sexual contact. The infection occurs in the genital region, causing blisters or sores to appear, known as genital herpes.