What helps cold sores?
Last updated September 6, 2026.
Antiviral treatment started at the very first tingle helps most, with cold compresses, lip moisturizer, and pain relievers to keep you comfortable while the sore heals. Timing changes the answer: antivirals shorten an outbreak best when you start during the tingling or burning stage, before blisters form. Over-the-counter docosanol 10% cream is the only FDA-approved nonprescription antiviral for cold sores, while prescription acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir taken by mouth works better for large, painful, or frequent outbreaks. Even untreated, sores usually crust and heal in about 1 to 2 weeks, so comfort care counts: cold compresses, petroleum jelly on the crust, and acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Sun exposure, illness, stress, and short sleep set off outbreaks for many people, so daily SPF 30 lip balm and a steady sleep routine reduce how often they return. Talk with a clinician if a sore lasts more than two weeks, returns several times a year, appears near your eye, or you have a weakened immune system or eczema.
What to do
- Treat at the first tingle: Start treatment during the tingling or burning stage, before blisters appear, since that is when antivirals help most.
- Use the OTC option correctly: Docosanol 10% cream is applied five times a day until the sore heals, so keep a tube on hand rather than buying one after blisters form.
- Ask about prescription antivirals: Acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir pills shorten outbreaks, and daily suppressive dosing is an option if you get several outbreaks a year.
- Ease the discomfort: Use a cold compress, petroleum jelly to stop cracking, and acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and leave the crust alone instead of picking it.
- Block your triggers: Apply SPF 30 lip balm before sun exposure and protect your sleep, since sun, illness, and stress commonly set off outbreaks.
- Avoid passing it on: Wash your hands often, do not share drinks, utensils, towels, or lip products, and avoid kissing anyone, especially newborns, until the sore has healed.
- Get medical care when: A sore lasts more than two weeks, spreads near your eye, or you have a weakened immune system or eczema, all of which need a clinician's review.
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