What Does Herpes Look Like and What Is It?

What Does Herpes Look Like and What Is It?

According to the World Health Organization, 67 percent of the world’s population under 50 have herpes simplex virus type 1.

The widespread nature of herpes often causes many people to worry that a new bump on the mouth or genital region means that they are infected with the virus.

They may even begin researching what does herpes look like and what is it?

Read on as we answer these questions and explain herpes causes and treatment options.

What Is Herpes?

Herpes is a common viral condition that presents as blisters and sores on the mouth or genitals.

It can be caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which is commonly responsible for oral herpes, and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), which is frequently, but not always, the origin of genital herpes.

What Does Herpes Look Like?

Although herpes typically occurs as blisters or sores, many individuals are asymptomatic or experience extremely mild symptoms.

Consequently, they may mistake the bumps for another skin condition such as an ingrown hair or pimple. Lack of symptoms can also make individuals more likely to unknowingly spread the virus to others.

With that being said, herpes usually begins with itching and redness on the mouth, genitals, buttocks, or thighs.

It then produces clustered blisters, also known as vesicles, which subsequently break-open and form one large sore. Finally, the sore crusts-over and gradually heals within the course of two-to-four weeks.

How Can Herpes Be Treated?

In addition to wanting to know, “What does herpes look like,” many patients ask if herpes can be cured.

While herpes is a lifelong condition, it goes through active and dormant cycles, and symptoms can successfully be managed by antiviral medications.

To learn more about herpes and its impact on cosmetic treatments, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with one of our highly talented and experienced providers.

GlamDerm - Gramercy Laser and Medical Dermatology