instruction: hi doctor I have had a bad cold sore weeks ago on my top lip and a bit of the skin above it I used zovirax externally weeks course and acyclovir weeks course to treat it the actual sore improved the blister stopped weeping the scab formed and flaked off within weeks but the redness is still lingering I rung the doctors that put me through a pharmacist who told me to use hydrocortisone cream I used it for a week as he recommended but it still did not go away that was two weeks ago I also had a new flare up three days ago also on the top of my lip symmetrical on both sides it looks different to a cold sore in that it was some redness and skin flaking home remedies I have tried so far aloe vera not much help tea tree oil irritated it masuka oil helps healing where the sore is but seem to irritate the new flare up conut oil irritated it almond oil seems to soothening it at the moment I am worried if this is still unresolved herpes cold sore and can be transmitted to my partner who does not have herpes is it contagious and am I able to keep it simple stupid my partner
output: hello as per the current picture sent by you it does not look like a cold sore as of now also I would advise to stop all ongoing treatment including the hydrocortisone and just leave it alone for a week apply dologel only it contains cholinesalicylate along with certain other ingredients that help to heal no application of any lipstick or any other ointments or creams to the region I would not advise kissing for more weeks atleast till things resolve to prevent spread also limit alcohol intake if you are currently consuming alcohol avoid spicy foods too to promote healing