People with herpes may have questions about sun exposure: does it worsen or not the sores? Do the types of herpes influence it? Understand how to treat herpes sores and deal with sun exposure.
Can sun exposure worsen herpes sores on the skin?
The answer is yes, exposure to sunlight “without protection” can worsen herpes sores, both oral herpes and genital herpes. “UV rays, in addition to reducing the body’s defenses, make the skin dry, making it even more vulnerable to the herpes virus.
The sun also makes it difficult for lymphocytes to act, disrupting the immune system’s response to the virus.
Do types of herpes influence it?
The types of herpes do not influence the probability of worsening of herpes sores with sun exposure. However, oral herpes is more commonly associated with outbreaks caused by sun exposure.
Care
Avoid excessive sun exposure, especially between 10am and 4pm, when the intensity of UV rays is greatest.
It is extremely important to use sunscreen according to your skin type at all times. In cases of people with recurrent or active herpes, this is even more important, since sun exposure is a trigger for the manifestation of outbreaks.
Therefore, anyone who lives with the herpes virus should always use and reapply sunscreen to prevent the worsening of the outbreak and the appearance of new lesions.
Wear a hat, sunglasses, and light clothing to protect your skin, face, and eyes from UV rays.
It is important to take all these precautions when exposing yourself to the sun, so you avoid outbreaks and sores caused by herpes.
Other precautions
To prevent herpes outbreaks, other precautions can be taken, such as:
- Maintaining a healthy diet: Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to keep the immune system strong.
- Avoiding alcohol consumption: Alcohol can weaken the immune system and make it more likely for herpes outbreaks to occur.
- Avoiding foods that are bad for your health: Eating processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats can also weaken the immune system.
- Exercising: Exercise is a great way to boost the immune system and reduce stress, both of which can trigger herpes outbreaks.
In addition, the use of natural supplements helps to keep the immune system always strong, as we know that weak immunity is the biggest cause of frequent outbreaks.
