Herpes on the top of the mouth is herpes labialis, which heals in about 7 to 10 days, depending on the individual. It is mainly treated by topical medication and oral antimicrobials.
Generally young people healing time for about a week, because young people have a better metabolism, cell renewal faster, in the process of treatment the affected area is easy to heal, the elderly generally need about 10 days.
Eating a light diet and minimizing spicy foods, as well as eating more fresh foods such as cabbage and tomatoes, will help the area to heal.
Drug treatment is mainly through acyclovir, vasiclovir, famciclovir and ganciclovir antiviral drugs, of which acyclovir (acyclic guanosine), ribavirin (viral azole) is most commonly used. Topical application of chlorhexidine solution or topical application of acyclovir ointment or phthalide ointment may also be used.
Medications should be used under a doctor’s supervision.