The LipQ Liquorice Balm, a natural cold sore prevention lip balm available on Amazon for £9.95, has garnered widespread praise from users who report near-complete elimination of cold sores. The balm, formulated with active liquorice extract, aims to weaken the herpes simplex virus before outbreaks begin, keeping lips protected and outbreak-free, according to the manufacturer.
How the Balm Works
The LipQ Balm contains Glycyrrhizic acid, which provides natural UV protection, making it suitable for summer use. This ingredient safeguards lips from sun-induced cold sores, offering defence beyond standard SPF creams. The balm proved effective in a double-blind study conducted by the Herpes Viruses Association, as reported by the Mirror.
During trials, the liquorice lip balm decreased the severity and length of episodes for over 73% of participants. Additionally, 83% of users experienced fewer episodes compared to their usual treatments. Outbreaks lasted, on average, just half their usual duration, with significantly longer gaps between occurrences.
Customer Testimonials
The product has amassed more than 650 customer reviews on Amazon, with over 400 sold in the past month alone. One shopper shared: "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 said: "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 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."
Alternatives and Considerations
While the LipQ Balm has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, not all reviews are perfect. One customer 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 a favourable experience with angular cheilitis, saying: "I have been using this for years, and I've just bought this for the 10x. 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."
Shoppers seeking alternatives can find comparable products on the high street. Boots stocks an Antiviral Cold Sore 5% ointment priced at £4.29, a topical treatment for cold sores on the lips and face. Superdrug carries the Blistex Relief Cream for £3.99, which soothes and treats occasional cold sores as well as cracked and chapped lips.
Final Verdict
A final purchaser 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!"
The LipQ Balm is available for £9.95 on Amazon.
