A cold sore sufferer has shared that she has not experienced an outbreak in four years thanks to a £10 balm. The product, LipQ Liquorice Balm, is priced at £9.95 on Amazon and has garnered positive reviews from long-term users.
Cold sores can be triggered by various factors beyond winter, including illness, menstrual cycles, and surprisingly, sunshine. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus, which most people are exposed to during childhood through close skin-to-skin contact, such as kissing.
How the Balm Works
The LipQ Liquorice Balm contains active liquorice extract, which weakens the virus before outbreaks start, according to the brand. It also includes Glycyrrhizic acid, offering natural UV protection that shields lips from sun-triggered cold sores, providing benefits beyond regular SPF creams.
A double-blind trial conducted by the Herpes Viruses Association found the balm effective. It reduced the severity and duration of outbreaks for over 73% of test subjects. Additionally, 83% of users reported fewer outbreaks compared to conventional treatments. On average, outbreaks were only half their usual length, and the time between outbreaks increased significantly.
Customer Testimonials
The balm has more than 650 customer reviews, with over 400 purchased in the past month alone. One shopper said: "Amazing! This has been my miracle cure. I suffered from constant severe cold sores, but this has nearly got rid of them entirely! When I do get the tingle or the start of one, it cures within days, and it never truly appears like before. I use the balm all day, every day. It really has changed my life!"
Another user remarked: "Brilliant stuff. My daughter has not had a single cold sore since using this every day. I really believe in this. Excellent for cold sore sufferers. Will definitely purchase again."
A third customer added: "I suffer from cold sores. Since using this balm daily, I haven't had an outbreak in over four years. Feels nice on lips, not greasy or sticky. Highly recommend."
Not all reviews are glowing. One person noted: "Helpful for cold-sore prone lips. Not quite as instantly efficient as its sister product that comes in a tube." However, another user reported: "I have been using this for years, and I've just bought this for the 10th time. It is amazing how cracks can appear in the corners of your lips. I was told it was angular cheilitis and given a prescription cream that never worked. This is the only cream I have found that actually stops this."
A final buyer concluded: "I purchased this as it stated it could help with the prevention of cold sores. It’s a lovely, hydrating lip balm that seems to never run out, despite being used. It glides on the lips, has a pleasant smell, and adds a little shine. I’ve also not had a cold sore since using it, so fingers crossed. Well worth the money - I would recommend!"
Alternative Products
For those seeking alternatives, Boots offers an Antiviral Cold Sore 5% ointment for £4.29, which treats cold sores on the lips and face. Superdrug sells Blistex Relief Cream for £3.99, which relieves occasional cold sores and chapped lips.
The LipQ Liquorice Balm is available for £9.95 on Amazon.
