10 bestCold Sore Treatmentsof June 2025
112M consumers helped this year.
1
Blistex Lip Medex Stick Value Pack 3 count
TEMGO
9.9
13% off
2
Abreva Cream Tube Cold Sore Treatment, Heals your cold sore in 4.1 days*, Contains docosanol to protect healthy cells against the virus, 2 g
Abreva
9.8
35% off
3
Herstat Cold Sore Treatment - Clinically Proven to Treat Cold Sores Fast, 2g cream
Herstat
9.7
4
DocoShield Cold Sore Prevention Lip Balm w/Docosanol and Lysine (3-Pack)
DOCO
9.5
23% off
5
Quantum Super Lysine+ Cold Sore Tablet
Quantum Health
9.3
OtherUp to 25% off
Viking Revolution All Natural Lip Balm for Men - Mens Lip Moisturizer - Baume à Lèvre Lip Repair for Softlips - Lip Care for Men for Dry, Cracked, Chapped Lips - Men Gift Ideas
Organic Lip Balm - USA Made Multi-Flavored Chap Stick Lip Balm, Lip Moisturizer for Dry, Cracked, Chapped Lips, Christmas Gifts for Women & Men, Stocking Stuffers for Adults & Teens, Baume à Lèvre
Lysine Cold Sore Ointment 7g
Blistex Repair & Protect Lip Balm
6
Clera Cold Sore Treatment Cream, Clinically Proven to Heal in 2 Days* - 5ml
Clera
9.1
22% off
7
Pack of 2 x Quantum Lipclear Lysine and Cold Sore Treatment All Natural Ointment - 0.25 oz
Quantum
8.9
8
Compeed Cold Sore Invisible Patch - 15 Pack
Compeed
8.6
9
Blistex Medicated Lip Ointment, 6gm
Blistex
8.4
18% off
10
Mederma Discreet Cold Sore Healing Patch - Twin Pack to Protect and Conceal Cold Sores (30 Patches)
Mederma
8.1
A Guide to Selecting the Best Cold Sore Treatments
Choosing the right cold sore treatment can make a big difference in how quickly and comfortably you recover. Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus, can be painful and unsightly, so it's important to find a treatment that fits your needs and lifestyle. When shopping for a cold sore remedy, you'll want to consider how fast it works, how it's applied, and whether it addresses your specific symptoms. Understanding the key features of different treatments will help you make an informed choice and get relief as soon as possible.
Active Ingredient
The active ingredient is the main component in a cold sore treatment that helps fight the virus or relieve symptoms. Common active ingredients include antiviral agents like docosanol or acyclovir, and soothing agents like benzocaine or lidocaine. Antiviral ingredients are important if you want to shorten the duration of the outbreak, while soothing agents are more focused on pain relief. If you want to stop the cold sore quickly, look for antiviral ingredients. If your main concern is discomfort, a product with a numbing agent might be best. Always check the label to see what the product is designed to do.
Form of Application
Cold sore treatments come in various forms, such as creams, ointments, patches, and gels. Creams and ointments are applied directly to the sore and are good for targeted relief. Patches can cover the sore, protect it, and sometimes deliver medication over time. Gels are often clear and can be less noticeable. If you need something discreet for use during the day, a clear gel or patch might be ideal. For overnight use or when at home, creams and ointments can be more comfortable. Think about when and where you'll be using the treatment to decide which form suits you best.
Speed of Relief
This refers to how quickly the treatment can reduce symptoms or help the sore heal. Some products are designed to start working within hours, while others may take a day or two to show effects. Fast-acting treatments are helpful if you need quick relief for an upcoming event or to minimize discomfort. If you are prone to frequent outbreaks, you might prefer a treatment that works quickly to stop the sore in its early stages. Always read the product information to understand how soon you can expect results.
Symptom Focus
Different treatments may target different symptoms, such as pain, itching, swelling, or the healing process itself. Some products are formulated mainly to reduce pain and itching, while others are focused on speeding up healing or preventing the sore from spreading. If your main issue is pain, look for a treatment that specifically mentions pain relief. If you want to heal faster, choose one that highlights antiviral action or healing support. Matching the treatment to your most bothersome symptom will give you the best results.
Frequency of Application
This tells you how often you need to use the treatment for it to be effective. Some products require application several times a day, while others may only need to be used once or twice daily. If you have a busy schedule or are likely to forget frequent applications, a product with less frequent dosing might be more convenient. On the other hand, if you want to be proactive and don't mind reapplying, a more frequent application schedule could be fine. Consider your daily routine and pick a treatment that fits easily into your life.
Suitability for Sensitive Skin
Some cold sore treatments contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin, especially around the lips. If you have a history of skin sensitivity or allergies, look for products labeled as suitable for sensitive skin or hypoallergenic. These are less likely to cause redness, itching, or further irritation. Always check the ingredient list and, if in doubt, do a patch test on a small area before full use.
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