A £9.95 cold sore balm has been hailed as a 'miracle cure' by users, with one sufferer claiming it prevented outbreaks for over four years. The LipQ Liquorice Balm, available on Amazon, uses active liquorice extract to weaken the herpes simplex virus before outbreaks begin, according to the brand.
Clinical Trial Results
The balm was tested in a double-blind trial conducted by the Herpes Viruses Association. Results showed that it reduced the severity and duration of outbreaks for over 73% of subjects. Additionally, 83% of participants reported fewer outbreaks compared to their conventional treatments. On average, outbreaks lasted only half their usual duration, and intervals between outbreaks were significantly longer.
The balm contains Glycyrrhizic acid, which shields lips from sun-triggered cold sores, making it suitable for summer use. It is made with natural ingredients, is paraben-free and perfume-free, and is ideal for sensitive skin.
Customer Testimonials
The product has over 650 customer reviews on Amazon, with more than 400 purchases in the past month alone. One user wrote: '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 reviewer stated: '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.' A third added: '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.'
However, not all feedback is positive. One customer noted: 'Helpful for cold-sore prone lips. Not quite as instantly efficient as its sister product that comes in a tube.' Another user reported a different benefit: 'I have been using this for years... 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.'
Alternative Products
For those seeking alternatives, Boots stocks an Antiviral Cold Sore 5% ointment currently on offer for £3.43, designed for cold sores on the lips and face. Superdrug carries Blistex Relief Cream for £3.99, which soothes and treats occasional cold sores as well as cracked, chapped lips. The LipQ Balm remains a popular choice, retailing at £9.95 on Amazon.
