Things You'll Need:
- Prescription antiviral medication Topical treatments containing docosanol Vitamin C supplement Zinc ointment Lysine supplement Cold compress
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Step 1
Talk to your doctor about an antiviral medication, available with a prescription, which is designed to suppress the herpes virus. Take it at the first sign of a cold sore. It should be taken at the first sign of a cold sore.
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Step 2
Get an over-the-counter balm, ointment or cream containing docosanol, which is effective for treating cold sores. Apply these topical treatments regularly after a cold sore appears to help it clear up.
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Step 3
Take 200 mg to 500 mg of Vitamin C daily. Vitamin C supports your immune system, which helps your body heal the cold sore more quickly.
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Step 4
Apply zinc ointment to your cold sore. When applied topically, zinc helps cold sores to heal more expediently. You can find topical zinc in most health and drug stores.
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Step 5
Take Lysine supplements. This natural amino acid supports mouth health, helping the area to heal from cold sores more quickly. Take 1,000 mg of Lysine daily beginning at the first sign of a cold sore.
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Step 6
Place a cold compress on your cold sore. This helps counteract heat in the area, thereby reducing swelling, redness and pain. Apply the cold compress multiple times daily for at least two minutes at a time.
