10 Best Cold Sore Treatments 2025 in the UK

The Compeed Cold Sore Discreet Healing Patch offers a modern and convenient way to manage cold sores. Its main active ingredient, hydrocolloid, is effective in creating a moist environment that promotes faster healing and reduces scab formation. This is particularly beneficial for people looking for a quick remedy, as it can speed up the healing process significantly. The patch acts as a protective shield, helping to reduce the risk of contamination from external elements. It's designed to stay put for up to 12 hours due to its adhesive and tapered edges, which means less frequent application and more comfort throughout the day.

One of the major draws of the Compeed patch is its discreet nature. Being translucent, it can blend in with the skin, thus minimizing any social discomfort or embarrassment caused by visible sores. This is appealing for users who are conscious about appearance during outbreaks. Another advantage is its ease of use, thanks to the new applicator design, although users are advised to be careful when applying.

However, it's essential to consider that the patch is primarily designed for external protection and moisture retention, rather than delivering medicinal ingredients directly to the sore. Therefore, for those seeking a more aggressive treatment with antiviral properties, this might not meet their expectations. Additionally, while the patch provides comfort and protection, its effectiveness can vary among individuals depending on the severity of the outbreak. No significant side effects have been reported, making it a generally safe option for all age groups.

In essence, this product is well-suited for those who prefer a non-invasive, protective measure that aids the natural healing process of cold sores, especially for those prioritizing discretion and convenience.

Zovirax Cold Sore Treatment Cream is designed for adults dealing with cold sores. The active ingredient, aciclovir, is known for its antiviral properties, which help to shorten the duration of pain and speed up healing. This cream comes in a convenient pump dispenser, making it easy to apply directly to the affected area.

One of its standout features is that it can start working at the initial tingle phase as well as during the blister stage, potentially reducing the cold sore's duration to as few as three days for some users, though the median healing time is four days. This could be particularly beneficial for anyone looking for rapid relief from discomfort and visible sores. However, the treatment needs to be applied frequently—four times daily—which might be inconvenient for some users. It's crucial to follow the application instructions for optimal results.

Side effects are minimal but, like any medication, there is always a possibility for individual reactions. Its fast-acting nature and ability to reduce pain duration are strong points, making it a popular choice. The cream's small size (2 grams) also makes it easy to carry around. On the downside, frequent application and the relatively small quantity could be considered minor drawbacks. In summary, Zovirax Cold Sore Treatment Cream is a well-regarded and effective option for those looking to quickly manage and heal cold sores.