To get rid of a cold sore and ease symptoms, you can use a combination of home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, and prescription medications:
Home Remedies and Self-Care
- Apply a cold, damp cloth or ice wrapped in a towel to reduce pain and swelling. Avoid putting ice directly on the skin to prevent damage
- Use lip balms or creams with sunblock (zinc oxide or SPF 15+) to protect lips from sun exposure, which can trigger cold sores
- Keep lips moisturized with creams to prevent dryness and crusting
- Avoid touching, picking, or rubbing the cold sore to prevent irritation and spreading
- Manage pain with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques, as stress can trigger outbreaks
Over-the-Counter Treatments
- Use topical creams containing antiviral agents such as docosanol (Abreva) or creams with lidocaine or benzocaine for pain relief
- Cold sore patches can protect the sore while it heals and reduce irritation
Prescription Medications
- Antiviral medications such as acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), famciclovir (Famvir), and penciclovir (Denavir) can speed healing and reduce symptoms if started early, ideally at the first sign of tingling or itching
- These medications are available as topical creams or oral tablets and are most effective when used promptly after symptoms begin
Alternative and Complementary Options
- Some natural products may help shorten healing time or ease symptoms, though evidence varies:
- Lysine supplements or creams
* Propolis ointment (a bee product)
* Lemon balm extract
* Aloe vera gel
* Tea tree oil and peppermint oil
* Medical-grade manuka or kanuka honey
While these remedies can help manage cold sores, they typically do not cure the underlying herpes simplex virus, and cold sores usually clear up on their own within 2 to 4 weeks
. Starting treatment early at the first sign of symptoms is key to reducing the duration and severity of cold sores
. If cold sores are frequent, severe, or persistent, consult a healthcare provider for tailored treatment options.
