What helps with cold sores? Cold sore creams, patches and ointments

Remember:

To treat cold sores, antiviral creams and ointments are helpful. Look for ones with phenol or menthol, as they numb the area and relieve tingling and burning. These treatments are available over the counter at your local pharmacy. If you're unsure which to choose, a quick chat with your pharmacist can help.

Not all cold sore creams are the same — different products use different active ingredients.

Some of the most effective options include:

These antiviral creams are easy to find at most UK pharmacies. If you're feeling unsure, a quick chat with your pharmacist can help you choose the best one for your needs.

Cold sore creams work by soothing the skin and helping cold sores heal a little faster. While they don’t get rid of the virus, they can make flare-ups feel less intense. The key is to start using the cream as soon as you feel that first tingle, usually a sign a sore is on the way. Apply it every couple of hours during the day, and you might shave a day or so off the healing time.

Cold sore patches are a popular choice because they speed up recovery and make outbreaks easier to manage. They use hydrocolloid technology — a gel-like material that keeps the area moist (helping cold sores heal faster).

Compeed® cold sore patches have lots of benefits:

Cold sore creams and patches each have their own benefits, but many people wonder if they can be used at the same time. While it’s best not to layer them directly (since a patch won’t stick well over cream), you can use them at different stages of the outbreak.

For example, apply an antiviral cream like acyclovir at the first sign of tingling to slow the virus down. Once the sore forms, switch to the Compeed® patch to protect the area, speed up recovery, and make the sore less noticeable. This flexible approach helps you get the best of both treatments, depending on where you are in the healing process.

Yes, you can definitely wear a cold sore patch overnight. In fact, it’s a great way to protect the sore while you sleep. The patch helps shield it from irritation, keeps it moist, and speeds up healing. Just make sure to apply it to clean, dry skin before bed. Then, take it off in the morning and replace it with a fresh patch if needed to keep the healing process going.

Yes, you can. The patch creates a smooth surface, which makes it easier to apply foundation, concealer, or other makeup products without irritating the sore. Just make sure the patch is securely in place before applying, and be gentle when blending products to avoid disturbing the patch. Also, try to use non-comedogenic makeup (ones that won't clog pores) to avoid any potential irritation around the cold sore.

Cold sore patches are generally safe to use, but like any product, they may cause soreness for some people, especially those with sensitive skin. If you experience redness, itching, or discomfort after using the patch, it’s best to remove it and discontinue use. If symptoms persist, speak to a healthcare professional.

When it comes to treating cold sores, whether you opt for a cream, or a patch depends on what works best for you. For instance, if you’re always on the go, you might not have the time to apply cream as often as needed. On the other hand, if you're concerned about how your cold sore looks, you might prefer a patch to cover it up.

Both treatments help you heal, but a cold sore patch also acts as a protective barrier. It lowers the risk of spreading the virus, prevents infection, and creates a better healing environment.