Cold sores (herpes labialis) often flare up at the most inconvenient times. Stress, lack of sleep, or a weakened immune system can be enough to reactivate the herpes simplex virus. Many people then turn to an antiviral cream, but increasingly, natural support is also being considered. One method gaining increasing attention is red light therapy.
In this blog, we explain in an accessible way what cold sores are, why they return, and how red light therapy can contribute to faster recovery and fewer complaints.
What exactly are cold sores?
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). A large portion of the population carries this virus, often without symptoms. After an initial infection, the virus remains dormant in the body. Triggers such as stress, fatigue, hormonal fluctuations, or a weakened immune system can cause the virus to reactivate.
Typical complaints are:
- Tingling or burning sensation around the lips
- Blisters or crusts
- Pain, tenderness and sometimes mild swelling
Unfortunately, there is no complete cure: treatments are aimed at shortening the outbreak and reducing symptoms.
Common treatments and natural support
The most commonly used remedies for cold sores are antiviral creams such as acyclovir. These can help stop the outbreak, but they don't work equally well for everyone and don't affect the dormant virus.
In addition to regular resources, natural support is also considered, such as:
- Lemon balm
- Zinc and vitamin E
- Lysine
- Propolis
And increasingly mentioned: red light therapy.
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy (also called photobiomodulation) uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light. This light penetrates the skin and can support processes involved in healing, such as:
- Improved blood circulation
- Cell energy support
- Reduction of inflammatory reactions
Red light therapy is now more widely used for skin repair, muscle and joint complaints and wound healing.
Red light therapy for cold sores: what does science say?
Dozens of scientific studies have now been conducted on the effect of red light therapy on herpes labialis. The results are remarkably positive:
- The recovery time is often significantly shortened
- Pain and sensitivity decrease faster
- In some studies, the next outbreak does not occur until much later
- Red light therapy also appears to have an additional effect in combination with an antiviral cream
Various wavelengths (between 630 and 1000 nm) and relatively low doses have already shown good results. With correct use, hardly any side effects have been reported.
Important: Red light therapy does not eliminate the virus from the body, but it can help make outbreaks milder and shorter.
Preventative or for an active cold sore?
Research and practical experience show that red light therapy can be used in two ways:
-
Preventive
For people who frequently get cold sores, regular treatment can help delay new outbreaks or make them less severe. -
At the first symptoms
Starting as soon as you feel tingling or tenderness seems most effective. The sooner you start, the better your chances of limiting the outbreak.
Be careful with sunlight and heat
Not all types of light work the same way. UV light (sunlight) can trigger cold sores in some people, especially when combined with stress or a weakened immune system. Extreme heat, such as intense saunas or strenuous exercise, can also play a role in susceptible individuals.
This does not mean that sunlight, sauna or exercise are necessarily bad, but with recurring cold sores it is wise to deal with them consciously and in a balanced way.
Is red light therapy safe?
When using standard red light therapy devices for home use (such as our MITO LIGHT® products ), the method is considered safe. Studies have found no significant side effects.
However, the following applies:
- Use the appliance according to the instructions
- Be careful with medical lasers (which belong to professionals)
- Consult a doctor if you experience severe, persistent or recurring symptoms.
Finally
Red light therapy isn't a miracle cure, but it is a promising and natural treatment for cold sores. The combination of scientific evidence, ease of use, and safety makes it an attractive addition to existing treatments for many people.
Do you regularly suffer from cold sores and want to support your recovery naturally? Then red light therapy may be worth considering, especially as part of a broader approach that includes plenty of rest, stress management, and a healthy diet.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
