Common questions

Ingrown Hair Vs. Herpes: What Are The Differences?

 

Herpes

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There are two main kinds of herpes virus – HSV-1, which causes cold sores and fever blisters, and HSV-2, which is a sexually transmitted disease. Both are infections caused by contact with an infected individual, either through kissing, sharing drinks and food, or through sexual contact.

Both are relatively common, with roughly 20% of American adults contracting HSV-2 at some point in their lives, though many people never show symptoms at all. These people are considered carriers, and while they may never know they have the disease, they are capable of spreading it.

Both kinds of herpes generally manifest as clusters of tiny bumps along the affected area. These bumps tend to be more akin to a blister than common acne and are slightly watery with a yellow discharge if ruptured. These outbreaks are frequently accompanied by minor cold-like symptoms such as a headache or fever and can cause soreness in and around the area.

Herpes outbreaks will usually resolve themselves in a few days to a week but are very likely to reoccur without proper treatment. There are, unfortunately, no direct treatments for the bumps once they appear, but certain antivirals can help prevent lesions from coming back.

 

How to Tell The Difference Between Ingrown Hair and Herpes – Quick Reference Chart

Though they may look similar on the surface, ingrown hair and herpes sores have very different symptoms. Here’s a simple chart on how to tell the difference quickly and the causes and treatment options for both conditions.

  Ingrown Hair

Herpes

Cause

Improper hair removal or hygiene, or abnormal hair growth Infection transmitted through kissing or sexual contact

Soreness

Isolated to bump Bump and surrounding areas

Redness or irritation

Isolated to bump Bump and surrounding areas

Clusters of bumps in multiple areas

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