Why it matters
A large share of adults carry HSV-1. The virus lies dormant in a nerve ganglion and re-emerges when the area is stressed — sunburn, illness, or a needle. An outbreak during healing is painful, risks scarring, and can pull pigment out unevenly for a blotchy result.
Prophylaxis
Standard practice: if there is any history of cold sores (even 'once as a teenager'), the client gets a prescription antiviral (e.g. valaciclovir or aciclovir) from their GP or a prescriber, starting ~2 days before and continuing ~5 days after. Some artists ask everyone to consider it, since a first outbreak can be triggered by the procedure.
Absolute rule
No procedure on a lip with an active or prodromal (tingling) cold sore. Reschedule for at least two weeks after it has fully crusted and healed.
During healing
Strict sun protection, keeping lips moisturised, managing stress and finishing the antiviral course all lower the reactivation chance.
