COLD SORES

Cold Sore Treatment in Neath – Free NHS Advice & Lip Care

Sore, tingling or blistered lips? Our cold sore treatment service in Neath provides fast, professional care from trained pharmacists through the NHS Common Ailments Service. You can receive free NHS treatment if eligible and get expert advice without waiting to see your GP.

Book an NHS Common Ailment appointment for cold sore advice and treatment today.
Book online or visit our pharmacy.

What Are Cold Sores?

Cold sores are small, painful blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). They usually appear around the lips or mouth and can be triggered by stress, illness, fatigue, or sun exposure.
Cold sores are contagious and spread through close contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils. Although they often heal on their own within 7–10 days, they can cause discomfort or become secondarily infected.

Expert Advice & Effective Treatment

Our pharmacists in Neath can assess your symptoms and recommend the best way to manage your cold sore. Depending on your needs, we may offer:

  • Antiviral creams or patches to shorten healing time and ease symptoms
  • Soothing and protective products to relieve pain and prevent cracking
  • Advice on avoiding triggers such as sunburn, fatigue, or stress
  • Assessment and NHS prescribing by one of our pharmacist prescribers if there are signs of bacterial infection or a more severe outbreak
  • Referral to your GP if cold sores are frequent, severe, or not healing

With pharmacist-led care, you’ll get reassurance, clear advice, and support to manage and prevent future flare-ups.

Self-Care Measures

You can help speed up healing and reduce recurrence by:

  • Avoid touching or picking at cold sores to prevent spreading the virus.
  • Use lip balm with SPF: Protect your lips from sun exposure, which can trigger outbreaks.
  • Maintain good hygiene: Wash hands frequently and avoid sharing towels, razors, or eating utensils.
  • Keep lips hydrated: Use a moisturising balm to stop them drying and cracking.
  • Manage stress: Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, deep breathing, or regular exercise.

When to Seek Further Help

We may refer you to your GP if:

  • The cold sore area becomes very painful, swollen, or infected
  • Cold sores occur frequently or spread widely
  • You have a weakened immune system or other long-term health conditions
  • You experience eye involvement (cold sores near or in the eye area require urgent medical attention)

Book an Appointment

Our pharmacist cold sore treatment service in Neath is quick, confidential and convenient. Get trusted advice and professional care to help your lips heal comfortably.

Book Online or visit us in-store for same-day advice.

Providing NHS Services Wales

FAQs – Cold Sores & Lip Health

Can pharmacists treat cold sores?

Yes — our pharmacists can provide antiviral creams and advice through the NHS Common Ailments Service, and prescribe further treatment if clinically needed.

How long do cold sores last?

Most clear up within 7–10 days. Early treatment with an antiviral cream can speed healing and reduce discomfort.

Are cold sores contagious?

Yes — they can spread through close contact or shared items. Avoid kissing or sharing utensils until fully healed.

When should I see a GP?

If you get frequent or severe outbreaks, or the area becomes infected or affects your eyes, seek further medical advice.

Explore related services:
Common Ailments Service |
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