Herpes Triggers | What to avoid for Herpes Outbreaks

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Herpes | Triggers for Outbreaks

Herpes Outbreaks | What causes recurrences?

Since the recurrence pattern of herpes is almost as varied as the people who harbor the virus, you should take every precaution possible to keep the virus in remission. A recurrence of the herpes infection may occur when latent viruses are triggered by immunosuppressive events, or other causes from wine to nuts.

Many factors contribute to herpes outbreaks:

  • Weakened immune system
  • Excessive alcohol
  • Sun exposure
  • Binging on nuts and most seeds except for hemp and flax seeds
  • Binging on chocolate
  • Too much L-arginine in your diet
  • Surgery
  • Stress
  • Fatigue
  • Colds or fever
  • Some medications
  • Lack of sleep
  • Tight clothing
  • Vigorous sex
  • Menstruation
  • Glycolic acid and other facial peels
  • Permanent Makeup application
  • Laser resurfacing

The short answer

Outbreaks don't happen at random for most people. The virus sits quietly in nerve cells and becomes active again when something lowers your defenses or irritates the skin. You can't control every trigger, but knowing yours can help you plan ahead and treat outbreaks early.

Key facts

  • Herpes simplex stays in the body for life, resting in nerve cells. Certain things can wake it up and cause an outbreak.
  • Triggers listed by the WHO include illness or fever, sun exposure, menstrual periods, injury, emotional stress and surgery.
  • For people whose cold sores are triggered by sunlight, the NHS suggests a sunblock lip balm (SPF 15 or higher).
  • Triggers differ from person to person. Keeping a simple diary can help you notice your own patterns.
  • Outbreaks often become less frequent over time.

When to talk to a doctor

Talk to a doctor if outbreaks are frequent, very painful, or affect your daily life. Prescription medicine can shorten outbreaks, and taking it daily can reduce how often they happen. Also get advice if you have a weakened immune system or are pregnant.

Related reading

Sources

  1. World Health Organization – Herpes simplex virus fact sheet
  2. NHS – Cold sores
  3. CDC – About Genital Herpes
  4. MedlinePlus (NIH) – Herpes – oral

This is general information, not medical advice. Please see our medical disclaimer. Section added October 2026.

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