Learn the difference between cold sores and pimples. Discover how to identify, treat, and prevent these common skin conditions effectively.

Q: Do topical cold sore treatment work? If so, which ones? A: Topicals provide modest benefits, mainly to reduce symptoms.

such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir, may decrease the time the sores are present or their severity. Over-the-counter pain relief medicines to put on the sores (topical) may help with ...