A mother has reported that her daughter has not experienced a single cold sore outbreak since using a £9 lip balm that has been described as a 'miracle' product. The LipQ Liquorice Balm, which typically costs £9.95, is currently available for £8.46 as part of Amazon's Prime Day sale running from June 23 to June 26.
What Causes Cold Sores?
Cold sores can appear around the mouth at any time of year, triggered by factors such as illness, menstrual cycles, and exposure to sunlight. According to the NHS, cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, which most people are exposed to during childhood through close skin-to-skin contact, such as kissing someone with an active sore. The virus can remain dormant in nerve cells and be reactivated by stressors that affect the body or immune system.
How the LipQ Balm Works
The LipQ Liquorice Balm contains active liquorice extract, which is designed to weaken the herpes simplex virus before outbreaks begin, helping to keep lips protected and free from breakouts, according to the manufacturer. The balm also includes Glycyrrhizic acid, which protects lips from sun-induced cold sores, offering defence beyond standard SPF creams. Its effectiveness was demonstrated in a double-blind trial conducted by the Herpes Viruses Association, as reported by the Mirror.
During the trial, participants found that their outbreaks typically lasted half as long as usual, and the intervals between flare-ups were significantly extended. The product has garnered 660 customer reviews on Amazon, with more than 400 purchases made in the previous month alone.
Customer Testimonials
One shopper commented: '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 customer observed: '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 reviewer noted: '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 were entirely positive. One customer noted a drawback: 'Helpful for cold-sore prone lips. Not quite as instantly efficient as its sister product that comes in a tube.' However, another reviewer shared a positive experience: '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 satisfied customer 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 alternative treatments, high street retailers offer comparable products. Boots stocks an Antiviral Cold Sore 5% ointment priced at £4.29, a topical remedy for cold sores affecting the lips and face. Superdrug sells the Blistex Relief Cream for £3.99, which provides relief and treatment for occasional cold sores as well as cracked, chapped lips.
