A cold sore is a small blister on or around the lips caused by the herpes simplex virus. Most people feel a tingling, itching or burning first, then a blister appears and crusts over. Cold sores are very common and usually heal by themselves within about ten days.
Treatments & products
GSL
Zovirax Cold Sore Cream
Cold sore cream containing aciclovir 5% w/w, supplied as a 2g tube or 2g pump
only £6.49
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GSL
Compeed Cold Sore Patch
Compeed Cold Sore Discreet Healing Patch is a drug-free hydrocolloid patch for cold...
only £6.49
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GSL
Bonjela Cold Sore Cream
Bonjela Cold Sore Cream (Invisible), 2g, is a self-care medical device for the...
only £5.99
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Cold Sore — your questions, answered
What helps a cold sore heal?
Antiviral cold sore creams containing aciclovir, such as Zovirax, work best when you start them at the very first tingle — before the blister appears. A Compeed patch protects the sore while it heals and makes it less noticeable. Keep the area clean, and try not to touch or pick it.
Are cold sores contagious?
Yes — from the first tingle until the sore has completely healed. Avoid kissing (especially newborn babies, for whom the virus can be dangerous), don't share towels, cutlery or lip products, and wash your hands straight after touching the sore or applying cream.
Why do I keep getting cold sores?
Once you've had one, the virus stays in your skin and can flare again when triggered — often by sunlight, stress, tiredness or being run down with another illness. A sun-protection lip balm and looking after your general health can help reduce how often they come back.
When should I see a pharmacist or GP?
Speak to our pharmacist or your GP if a cold sore hasn't healed after ten days, is very large or painful, or keeps coming back. Get advice urgently if a sore spreads near your eye, you have a weakened immune system, or you feel generally unwell with it.
Information only — always read the patient leaflet and ask our pharmacist if you're unsure. Prescription treatments are supplied only after a consultation and our pharmacist's approval.