What good for cold sores on lips?

There are several treatments available for cold sores on lips, including:

* Antiviral creams: These creams, such as acyclovir or penciclovir, can be applied directly to the cold sore. They can help to reduce the duration and severity of the outbreak.

* Oral antiviral medications: These medications, such as valacyclovir or famciclovir, are taken by mouth and can be effective in treating and preventing cold sores. They are typically used for people with frequent or severe outbreaks.

* Over-the-counter pain relievers: Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with cold sores.

* Cold compresses: Applying a cold compress to the cold sore can help to reduce pain and swelling.

* Zinc supplements: Some studies suggest that taking zinc supplements may help to reduce the duration and severity of cold sores.

* Home remedies: There are several home remedies that some people find helpful for treating cold sores, such as applying honey, aloe vera gel, or tea tree oil to the affected area.

It's important to note that cold sores are caused by a virus and there is no cure. Treatment options can help to reduce the symptoms and speed up the healing process, but they cannot completely prevent future outbreaks.