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How to treat cold sores so they heal as fast as possible

Like acne, a cold sore outbreak can be a frustrating dilemma that makes everyday activities (like eating, drinking and talking) cumbersome. Thankfully, the best products can help eliminate some pain and discomfort associated with the condition.“Depending on how often you have cold sores outbreaks, the most effective treatment would be with an oral medication that can be prescribed by a physician, to be used either for flares (if you get them rarely), or on a daily basis to prevent outbreaks (if you get flares frequently),” says Dr. David Li, a board-certified dermatologist based in Massachusetts. “Topical treatments can be found over the counter as well.”We spoke with two board-certified dermatologists about the best topical treatments and how to know which one is right for you. We also put together a list of what to shop based on their recommendations and guidance.SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best products for cold sores | The best cold sore products in 2025 | How to shop for cold sor…