Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) type 1 typically causes fluid-filled blisters (vesicles) on the face, lips, nose, and inside the mouth. These vesicles rapidly rupture, forming ulcers that tend to coalesce with adjacent smaller ulcers. Subsequently, these open sores crust over. The resulting scabs are yellowish-white and soften before falling off spontaneously. Initially, a brown discoloration may remain during the healing process, which can later develop into a scar.
In contrast, HSV type 2 primarily affects the genital region. This involvement can include the groin, the labia majora and minora, the perineum (area between the anus and vagina), and the cervix in women, and in men, primarily the shaft of the penis (less commonly the glans penis and testicles), as well as the buttocks.