Cold sores: causes, triggers and treatment in Dubai
Recurrent blisters on the lip: how cold sores are treated and prevented, including before laser or filler treatments.
Cold sores are recurrent blisters around the lips caused by herpes simplex virus. After the first infection, the virus stays dormant and can reactivate.
Antiviral treatment started early shortens outbreaks; preventive antivirals are used before laser or filler in susceptible patients.
Signs and symptoms
- Tingling or burning before blisters appear
- Clusters of small blisters
- Crusting over 7–10 days
Common causes
- Sun exposure
- Illness or fever
- Stress
- Facial procedures such as laser, peels or lip filler
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for frequent outbreaks, sores near the eye, or before planned facial procedures if you are prone to them.
How it is diagnosed
Clinical diagnosis; swabs occasionally.
Which doctor to see
Dr. Abdullah Anis
Specialist Dermatologist & Venereologist
Medical dermatology, venereology, injectables and filler complications.
Treatment options
Antiviral treatment started early shortens outbreaks; preventive antivirals are used before laser or filler in susceptible patients.
Questions patients ask
Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-09-23 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis
This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.
Should I tell my doctor before lip filler or laser?
Yes. A history of cold sores means preventive antiviral treatment may be advised.
Which doctor treats cold sores (herpes labialis) in Dubai?
At Manhal Medical Center in Al Safa 1, cold sores (herpes labialis) is assessed by Dr. Abdullah Anis (Specialist Dermatologist & Venereologist).
How is cold sores (herpes labialis) diagnosed?
Clinical diagnosis; swabs occasionally.
When should I see a doctor about cold sores (herpes labialis)?
See a doctor for frequent outbreaks, sores near the eye, or before planned facial procedures if you are prone to them.
Where is Manhal Medical Center?
We are at Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE, between Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, with easy access from Jumeirah, City Walk, Downtown and Business Bay.
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Building 101, Street 22A, Al Safa 1, Dubai, UAE