Ointments, creams and gels for cold sores on the lips: a list of effective medicines for cold sores

Doctors say that every second occurs with a characteristic rash of vesicles on the mucous membranes and skin at least once in a lifetime. The herpes virus does not sleep, worsening during periods of weakened immunity: after severe stress, during a cold or prolonged treatment with antibiotics. A real salvation is an ointment against herpes on the lips. But only if its composition and concentration correspond to the needs of the patient.

A little bit about the virus

In total, virologists count 7 types of herpes virus. The appearance of a “cold on the lips” is the merit of Herpes simplex, whose name translates as “herpes simplex.” It enters the body by contact-household and airborne droplets. First, pathogenic agents linger on the mucous membranes of the mouth and respiratory tract. Having overcome the tissue barrier, the virus is in the lymph and blood, and then delivered to the internal organs.

The ultimate goal is the genetic apparatus of nerve cells. Becoming part of its structure, Herpes remains in the body forever. The immune system responds by producing antibodies, but it can’t completely destroy the enemy. Therefore, when cooling, stress or hypovitaminosis, when the immune system is distracted by solving other problems, activation of herpetic infection is inevitable.

In the case of the appearance of rashes on the lips, the virus multiplies in the cells of the surface layer of the epithelium. Under its influence, the populated cells atrophy and die, and a person observes vivid manifestations of herpes - inflamed vesicles with transparent contents that burst and crust over time.

Herpes Remedies

Treatment of large rashes, as well as frequent relapses, is best done under the supervision of a doctor. For this, strong oral preparations have been developed: Acyclovir, Famciclovir, Valacyclovir and their derivatives. Outwardly, it is customary to use gels, creams and ointments. Their advantage is the possibility of targeted, targeted use, as well as possessing a triple effect.

Local funds:

• Suppress the activity of the virus.
• Soothe the affected area.
• Create reliable insulation.

The shell, which is formed after the application of antiviral agents, isolates the sore spot, stops the further spread of infection. That is why the best cure for herpes on the lips in consistency, composition and form of release is ointment.

The main groups of external funds

All drugs for external use can be divided into three groups:

• Preparations, the therapeutic basis of which are herbal components. They have no side effects with the exception of individual allergic reactions.
• Ointments or gels, the main active substance in which is acyclovir. Since the principle of their action is based on damage to the DNA of the virus cells, today these are the best remedies for herpes. They are efficient and fast.
• Compounds where the most active substance is an immunity stimulant.

It is worth noting that the herpes cream on the lips with a stimulator of the immune response is less effective. Such drugs often lose even to cheap drugs with acyclovir.But in some situations, their action may be sufficient.

The list of the most effective creams, ointments and gels

In all pharmaceutical ratings, the list opens Acyclovir - an ointment for herpes on the lips. Dissolved in petroleum jelly, it actively fights the virus, significantly accelerates recovery. The advantage of the drug is its low price. Moreover, this ointment can be found in almost any pharmacy.

Acyclovir is an ointment for herpes of domestic origin. The closest foreign counterpart is Zovirax. In recent years, in Moscow there has been an increase in the popularity of this ointment, people liked its consistency and effectiveness. But today they are increasingly saying that the drug is addictive, it ceases to work even with a simple disease in its initial form.

Unlike Zovirax, Panavir is intended for long-term use, as it is not addictive. It can be used for prevention for a long time. Another difference is versatility. The gel is suitable for the treatment of cold sores on the lips, depriving on the body, on the genitals.

The next item on the list is Fenistil Pencivir. Penciclovir, which is part of the composition, destroys the structure of the virus and significantly alleviates the condition by relieving itching and burning. Doctors consider the formula effective at any stage of the disease: this herpes gel is used when the first symptoms appear, and during the healing period.

The Vivorax cream based on acyclovir derivatives continues the list of herpes-based anti-herpes products. Viruses have been proven to mutate over time. Vivorax acts on new strains, those that are not subject to classical acyclovir. The minimum of side effects, easy tolerance and affordable price made the drug one of the best for herpes viruses.

And closes the list of Herperax. This is not the best ointment for cold sores on the lips, as it has a mild antiviral effect. But Herperax is affordable and indispensable for severe itching. The ointment soothes and quickly dries the weeping elements.

Application rules

The standard scheme provides for the treatment of rashes every four hours. The exception is Fenistil Pencivir: the manufacturer allows the use every two hours. Cream or ointment is applied in a thin layer without intensive grinding.

The average duration of the course is 5-7 days. After this period, it is better to change the drug to any other cold sore cream. This approach eliminates addiction, will achieve a longer remission.

Important! The issue of prescribing drugs to pregnant and lactating women should be decided only by a doctor. Even the most gentle and effective ointment for cold sores on the lips can harm the baby's health. Even more dangerous are pills “prescribed” for oneself.

Phytopreparations: creams, gels, ointments and tablets

Manufacturers of herpes medicines include:

• oils of eucalyptus, Altai penny;
• extracts of legumes, sea buckthorn, Canadian desmodium;
• essence of myrtle tree.

For prophylaxis, formulations based on herbal components can be applied once a day. For treatment - at least 5-6 times in one day. Among them, the most famous are Hyporamine, Helepin-D, Alpizarin ointment, Myrplex.

Immune stimulants

The active components in such ointments are interferon and thromantadine. Both ingredients are designed not to destroy the virus, but to enhance the immune response. Simply put, they should stimulate the natural defense system of the human body.

The cheapest ointment for herpes on the lips with interferon is Viferon - a very popular and affordable drug. A slightly more expensive composition with thromantadine is Viru-Merz gel. It is not addictive, but it can cause contact dermatitis, so professional consultation will not interfere with the start of use.

Herpes ointments and creams for healing

After the bubbles burst, unprotected patches form on the lips. At this time, the skin needs reliable protection.For this, antibacterial drugs can be used, as well as drugs with a pronounced antiseptic effect. To increase the intensity of the healing process at the final stage, it is better to use agents with panthenol. Bepanten, Dexpanthenol and their cheaper analogues are quite suitable.

General requirements for herpes remedies

It is worth noting that the best ointment for cold sores on the lips is one that has a viscous consistency. This facilitates application, makes use more comfortable and effective. This consistency is possessed by all gels and most creams.

Liquid formulations as well as pure oils are not suitable. The first quickly evaporate from the surface of the mucosa, not having time to provide a sufficient therapeutic effect. The second does not allow for the targeted application necessary for the treatment of herpes.

What will happen if the disease is not treated

Herpetic rashes on the lips are so common that many consider the disease to be frivolous, only slightly spoiling the appearance. Practice shows that this is not so. With insufficient treatment or its complete disregard, such ailments arise as:

• myocardial inflammation;
• the appearance of bubbles on the cornea of ​​the eye, visual impairment;
• eczema;
• genital herpes;
• damage to the respiratory tract;
• stomatitis.

All these are complications that people rarely associate with the common cold on the lips, but doctors have long proved their direct dependence. Therefore, it is necessary not only to completely treat the disease that has arisen, but also to carry out prevention.

Important! The occurrence of inflammation more than four times a year should alert any patient, regardless of age and gender. This is the case when a visit to the doctor cannot be postponed.

Prevention

Simple advice from immunologists can help prevent relapse. Among the effective preventive measures, they distinguish:

• Daily walks.
• A varied diet.
• Hardening.
• Adequate rest.
• Avoidance of stressful situations.
• Personal hygiene.

The last point involves the use of a clean toothbrush, timely washing of hands, as well as the use of hygienic lipsticks, balms. The fact is that weathered and dry skin of the lips is a fertile environment for the development of the virus. Therefore, it is important to keep it moist.

Preventive diet

There is a theory that the virus does not tolerate two amino acids: lysine and arginine, which are part of almost all known proteins in science. This statement is based on a diet that doctors offer to test for all chronic patients. Main ingredients: raw vegetables, turkey and chicken meat, milk, fruits. Additional - blueberries, currants, nuts and mushrooms.

Adhering to a diet for preventive purposes is in the fall and spring - in the most dangerous periods. It will also be a good addition to ointment treatment during an exacerbation.