A 67-year-old who suffered from cold sores for over 50 years has praised a £10 lip balm for preventing outbreaks. The LipQ Liquorice Lip Balm, available on Amazon for £9.95, has been hailed by users for its effectiveness, with one saying they haven't had an outbreak in over four years.
Why Cold Sores Flare Up in Summer
Cold sores can occur as frequently in summer as in winter. Sun exposure, hot temperatures, lack of hydration, and stress from travelling can all trigger outbreaks, making lip protection important year-round.
According to the Herpes Viruses Association, about seven in ten people in the UK have caught a virus that causes cold sores, with one in three noticing symptoms. A double-blind trial by the HVA found the LipQ balm effective in reducing the severity and duration of outbreaks for over 73% of subjects tested.
How the Balm Works
The balm contains concentrated liquorice root extract, a natural ingredient with antiviral properties. It is designed for daily use, applied morning and night or whenever lips feel dry. The 100% natural and hypoallergenic formula includes avocado, almond, and sunflower oils to moisturise, while the liquorice root extract interferes with the production of proteins needed to feed infected cells.
One user wrote: "So far, no cold sores during the hot spell, which normally would break out a few." Another said: "This Lip Balm is brilliant! I've suffered with cold sores for over 50 years. I'm 67 now and didn't think anything could shift them. How wrong was I? I had one starting right in the middle of my top lip, I used some of the lip balm and it never broke out."
User Reviews and Alternatives
Many reviewers report increased confidence after years of outbreaks. One customer noted: "I cannot tell you how much I love this product! I have a public-facing job and so cannot be riddled with cold sores. My lips felt better from the first application."
Some users mention a slight liquorice taste, but most find it mild. For those who dislike liquorice, alternatives include Miaderma Lysine Balm (£5.50 at Holland & Barrett) and Blistex Relief Cream (£3.99 at Boots).
The LipQ balm has earned five-star reviews, with one medical provider stating: "This product, however, changed my life. I apply this all the time, especially at night."
