Cold Sore Treatment Creams 2020: What Worked Best?

If you’ve ever dealt with a cold sore, you know the itch of waiting for it to clear up. In 2020 a handful of creams actually cut that wait time down. This guide pulls together the most effective options and tells you why they earned their spot.

Why These Creams Beat the Rest

First off, the winners all packed something extra – either an antiviral ingredient or a barrier‑forming formula. Compeed Invisible Patches, for example, stick right over the sore and lock in moisture while delivering zinc oxide to speed healing. BASE Everyday Lip Solv Bullet mixes docosanol with soothing botanicals, so you get both fast action and comfort.

What set them apart from generic ointments was real‑world testing. Users reported noticeable improvement within 24‑48 hours, and most said the sore faded completely in under a week. Those numbers matter because they come straight from people who actually tried the products during breakout episodes.

How to Use Them for Maximum Speed

The trick isn’t just buying the right cream – it’s applying it correctly. Clean the area gently with warm water, pat dry, then apply a thin layer of the chosen product. If you’re using a patch, place it directly on the sore before it fully forms; the early seal helps stop the virus from spreading.

Don’t forget to reapply as directed – most creams need a fresh dose every 3‑4 hours, while patches stay put for up to 12 hours. Consistency is key; skipping doses can let the virus rebound and prolong the sore.

Another tip: keep your lips moisturized between treatments. Dryness cracks the skin and makes it easier for the virus to take hold again. A simple petroleum‑based lip balm works fine, just avoid scented or flavored varieties that might irritate the area.

Overall, 2020 showed us that a good cold sore cream does more than cover up – it actively fights the virus while soothing the skin. Whether you choose Compeed’s patch system or BASE’s liquid bullet, you’ll notice faster healing and less pain compared to older over‑the‑counter options.

Ready to try one? Check the product pages on OnMen Pharma Guide for current pricing and availability. We keep the links up to date so you can grab the right cream without hunting around.