For example, oral herpes symptoms tend to clear up in 2–3 weeks, while genital herpes symptoms usually clear up in 2–6 weeks. The first time a rash appears, it may last for different lengths of time depending on the type of herpes. The rash typically lasts for around 7–10 days. For a few days to a week, they will break open, ooze fluid, and form a crust before healing over. They tend to look like clusters of small, fluid filled blisters that become pustules. The sores can be tender, painful, and tingly.

This initial symptom might occur a day or so before the sores appear. The first symptom of a herpes outbreak tends to be a tingling, burning, or itching sensation in the affected area.

Where the rash appears will depend on where and how the person contracted the infection. These sores usually develop around the mouth and nose, but they can appear nearly anywhere on the body, including the fingers.

Herpes causes small sores to appear on the skin. Share on Pinterest Herpes skin rashes are common around the mouth but can appear almost anywhere on the body.