Not sure what causes your cold sores? Start keeping a journal of your cold sore outbreaks and what was happening in your life when your cold sore appeared. Were you under stress? Did you have more than normal sun or cold weather exposure? How about hormonal changes or time of the month? All these and more can trigger your cold sore episode. It's time to figure out your outbreak profile.

Cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1--a highly contagious virus. That's why it's smart to know the do's and don'ts of cold sore hygiene.

• Wash your hands regularly from the moment you feel that first symptom and throughout the duration of your outbreak. And always wash your hands before or after using ABREVA®.
• Better yet, just get into the habit of hand-washing on a regular basis, throughout the day, for your best defense against cold, flu and infection.
• Don't share personal items during an outbreak. That includes a bathroom cup, a towel or anything else that could harbor the virus and pass it on to others.
• Restrain yourself—do not kiss others from the moment you feel the first sign of an outbreak through the entire lifecycle of a cold sore. Even in the earliest stages, the virus is highly contagious.

• In extremely cold weather, cover and protect your face and mouth—with both a moisturizer and a scarf.
• Watch out for conditions that can dry out your skin, such as your furnace or super-hot baths or showers.
• Use gentle extra-moisturizing cleansers and hydrating masks to keep your skin moist.
• Keep your body hydrated—don't skimp on the water.
• Don't forget to wear lip balm when you're out and about to guard against the drying effects of cold wind—not to mention UV rays.