Cold sore outbreak before a big event? Here’s what to do Compeed®

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), which stays in your system even after the initial infection. Most of the time, it lies dormant, but specific triggers can cause an outbreak – and stressful or emotional moments are one of the most common causes.

Things like stress, tiredness, hormonal changes, sunlight exposure, or even a weakened immune system can bring on a cold sore. So, if one shows up just before something important, it’s not bad luck – it’s simply your body’s reaction to the stress.

The good news? Early action and protection can help treat a cold sore fast.

The first sign of a cold sore is often a tingling, burning, or itching feeling on or around your lips. Acting quickly at this stage can help shorten the outbreak and make it less noticeable.

Here’s what to do right away:

• Keep the area clean and dry to reduce the risk of spreading the virus

• Avoid touching or picking the area to prevent irritation or infection

• Apply a Compeed® Cold Sore Patch as soon as you feel the first symptoms.

Compeed® patches use special hydrocolloid technology to create a protective environment that helps your skin heal. They:

• Seal the sore away from dirt and bacteria

• Help reduce scabbing and visibility

• Relieve pain and discomfort

• Move naturally with your skin for long-lasting protection.

If your cold sore has already appeared, don’t worry – you can still manage it with care and confidence.

Once your Compeed® Cold Sore Patch is in place, it acts as a second skin. This allows you to apply makeup gently on top if you want to blend it in, without the risk of the makeup sticking to the sore or interfering with the healing process.

• Make sure the patch is fully stuck on before putting on any makeup or lipstick

• Use gentle products and avoid fragranced or alcohol-based makeup removers

• Try to focus on hydration – lip balms with SPF can help protect the surrounding skin.

Because the patch is discreet, smooth, and waterproof, it helps you feel more comfortable and confident, even when you’re face-to-face or on camera.

Cold sores usually heal on their own within 5-10 days, but there are a few simple habits that can help your body recover faster and reduce discomfort:

• Manage stress: Try to rest, relax, and get enough sleep

• Stay hydrated: Dry lips can worsen irritation

• Avoid touching or picking: This can delay healing or spread the virus to other areas

• Protect your lips: Use SPF lip balm to guard against sunlight, which can trigger outbreaks

• Keep your patch on: Leave your Compeed® patch in place until it starts to loosen naturally.

Compeed® patches can be used throughout the healing process to protect the sore from bacteria and friction – so you can go about your day without worrying about it reopening.

Everyone heals a little differently, but most cold sores follow the same pattern, starting with a tingle, then blistering, scabbing, and finally healing, usually over one to two weeks.

Using a Compeed® Cold Sore Patch can help protect the area through every stage. It reduces irritation and keeps you comfortable while your skin heals. Keeping the patch on continuously also helps maintain just the right amount of moisture to support your skin’s natural recovery.

Most cold sores will heal on their own, but it’s worth checking in with a pharmacist or GP if:

• They appear very often or don’t heal within two weeks

• You get sores in multiple places or experience a lot of discomfort

• You have a weakened immune system or frequent outbreaks

A pharmacist can suggest over-the-counter antiviral creams or treatments, and you can use Compeed® Cold Sore Patches alongside these to help protect the area and keep it comfortable while it heals.