I have had cold sores before

Thank you for your query.

Very less likely.

Virus usually spreads via direct human contact. It can spread via inanimate objects too, but the risk is much less. And in your case – lips – fingers – cream – finders –lips , there are lot of barriers in between, (and an antiviral cream !), so you need not worry.

Moreover if you had cold sore before you might be having antibodies before, which can offer some protection.

It is less likely to catch virus by applying cream or liquid to treat cold sore. However, I wouldn’t advise you to use any cream or liquid without consulting a Doctor. Cold sore Symptoms usually go away on their own without treatment also in 1 to 2 weeks in most of the people. But it if it bothering you, then I would suggest you to take these measures which can treat cold sore symptoms and help you feel better,

•Apply ice or a warm washcloth to the sores to help ease pain.

• Wash the blister gently with germ-fighting (antiseptic) soap and water. This helps prevent spreading the virus to other body areas.

• Avoid hot beverages, spicy and salty foods, and citrus.

• Gargle with cool water or eat popsicles.

• Rinse with salt water.

• Take a pain reliever if you experience pain, such as paracetamol.

After trying these, if you still experience tingling sensation then you might need treatment antiviral medications from you Doctor.

You can catch this virus if you:

• Have intimate or personal contact with someone who is infected

• Condoms can help reduce, but do not entirely eliminate, the risk of catching herpes from oral or genital sex with an infected person.

• touch something that is infected with the herpes virus, such as infected razors, towels, dishes, and other shared items.

And I would suggest you to apply sunblock cream or moisturiser cream on your lips, to prevent it from getting dry as this also helps in treating this problem.
 

Please feel free to ask if you have any further questions. Thank you.