fever, fatigue, menstruation or stress. Sun is a contributing factor. My patients often report a significant herpes outbreak around the mouth or nose that occurs as soon as they begin winter sports or at the beginning of summer. This spoils their holiday because of the visibility of the outbreak and the burning they experience.

The treatment must begin as soon as the first symptoms appear. Our patients are very familiar with the slight burning sensation that heralds an oncoming outbreak. They must also refrain from scratching the scabs: this can cause cross-infection by germs (impetigo) or promote the spread of the virus. Affected patients must avoid direct contact (kissing) with friends and family and any irritating local product, which aggravates the sores.

reproduction of a virus already present in the body is stimulated by the effects of the sun's UV rays. Hence photoprotection is essential. It can allow patients to avoid an outbreak. I prescribe high-protection sticks for the lips to be applied every two hours. The rest of the face is protected with high protection sun care products with a broad spectrum for UVB and UVA rays.