Herpes comes in two main forms: HSV-1 and HSV-2. People often mix them up, but understanding the difference can help you better manage symptoms, choose the right care products, and take control of your wellness.
What Is HSV-1?
- HSV-1 is most commonly associated with oral herpes — cold sores around or near the mouth.
- It can also cause genital herpes through oral-to-genital contact.
- HSV-1 is extremely common — the majority of adults carry it, often without ever knowing.
Typical symptoms of an HSV-1 outbreak:
- Tingling or burning around the mouth
- Small, fluid-filled blisters (cold sores)
- Pain or soreness around the lips
These outbreaks are often triggered by:
- Sun exposure
- Stress
- Illness
- Fatigue or hormonal shifts
What Is HSV-2?
- HSV-2 is primarily associated with genital herpes.
- It’s less common than HSV-1 but more typical in genital outbreaks.
Typical symptoms of an HSV-2 outbreak:
- Clusters of painful blisters or sores on genital skin
- Tingling, burning, itching before sores appear
- Pain during urination (especially early outbreaks)
Outbreaks with HSV-2 also respond to stress, lack of sleep, friction, hormonal changes, and lowered immunity.
Best Products to Use During an Outbreak
Not every product helps everyone the same way — but these are some of the most supportive, gentle, and commonly recommended options, whether you have HSV-1 or HSV-2.
🧴 1. Fix It Salve — Skin Soothing Support
Best for:
✅ Open sores or irritation
✅ Burning and raw feeling
✅ Reducing discomfort on contact
This salve combines gentle natural ingredients with antimicrobial and soothing support. It’s excellent after a shower, before bed, or whenever your outbreak feels raw or irritated.
Why it helps:
- Supports skin barrier repair
- Reduces irritation and discomfort
- Great for both oral and genital areas
How to use:
- Apply in a thin layer to clean, dry skin
- Use as often as needed, especially at night
🛁 2. Recovery Soak — Calm Your Body & Your System
Best for:
✅ Pain and tension around outbreak areas
✅ Post-stress or “my nerves are shot” days
✅ A gentle way to relax muscles and shift nervous system tension
Warm Epsom or mineral soaks help with pain and also promote relaxation — which can be incredibly helpful during outbreak cycles, especially for HSV-2 when outbreaks can cause deep discomfort.
Pro tip: Add calming essential oils or muscle-soothing scents to your soak to promote mental relaxation.
🌿 3. Everyday Wellness Oil — Daily Immune & Skin Support
Best for:
✅ Daily skin care and nourished barrier between outbreaks
✅ Supporting general immune health
✅ Helping keep skin balanced and resilient
Using a daily wellness oil helps keep skin moisturized, supports your immune system, and can help you feel proactive in managing your overall wellness.
Product Tips by Location
HSV-1 (Oral) Outbreaks
- Use Lifesaver Lip Balm for your lips
- Protect with SPF when in sun (cold sores are sensitive to UV)
- Keep stress low, sleep regular
HSV-2 (Genital) Outbreaks
- Rescue Balm on irritated skin — especially after showers
- Warm baths/Recovery Soaks for pain relief
- Avoid tight clothes — let the area breathe
More Ways to Support Your Body Between Outbreaks
✨ Immune Boosters: Vitamins, lysine, monolaurin, and nutritious food
✨ Hydration: Staying hydrated helps skin and immune health
✨ Skin pH & Microbiome: Gentle cleansers, breathable fabrics
✨ Stress Reduction: Meditation, breathwork, routine check-ins with your nervous system
All of this strengthens your resilience — and the herpes virus doesn’t get to sneak in as easily when your system is balanced.
HSV-1 and HSV-2 are two branches of the same virus family — but their behavior can feel different depending on where the outbreaks occur and what triggers them.
While you can’t cure herpes, you absolutely can manage outbreaks in ways that reduce frequency, ease symptoms faster, and help your body stay strong.
And a smart wellness toolbox — including support products like Fix It Salve, Recovery Soak, and Everyday Wellness Oil — gives you more comfort and confidence along the way.
Herpes is part of your biology — not your identity.